What to Do After a Job Interview: Stand Out with These Key Follow-Up Steps
April 8, 2025

You’ve just wrapped up your job interview—congratulations! While it may be tempting to sit back and wait for a response, your work isn’t done just yet. In fact, what you do after the interview can be just as important as how you performed during it.
At Murray Resources, we know that candidates who follow up thoughtfully often stand out from the crowd. A few simple steps can leave a lasting impression and keep you top of mind with the hiring manager—exactly where you want to be during the decision-making process.
Why Interview Follow-Up Matters
In a competitive job market, small details make a big difference. Many candidates skip the follow-up process entirely, assuming that their resume or interview performance speaks for itself. However, employers are not just evaluating qualifications—they’re also assessing enthusiasm, professionalism, and communication skills.
That’s why strategic post-interview follow-up can tip the scales in your favor.
Step 1: Confirm Your Interest Promptly
As soon as your interview ends, take a moment to reflect on the conversation. Then, within the same day, send a thoughtful thank-you email. Use this message to:
Express appreciation for the opportunity
Reiterate your interest in the position and the company
Reference a specific topic, detail, or moment from the interview that resonated with you
This kind of personalized note not only shows that you were actively listening, but also reinforces your excitement about the role.
Example:
“Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me today. I especially enjoyed learning more about your team’s approach to collaboration and how you’re leveraging technology to drive innovation. It made me even more excited about the opportunity to contribute to your mission.”
Step 2: Go the Extra Mile with a Handwritten Note
In today’s digital world, snail mail follow-ups are a rarity—which is exactly why they’re so effective.
A handwritten thank-you note, sent within a day or two after the interview, will typically arrive while the hiring team is still in the decision-making phase. This gesture conveys thoughtfulness, attention to detail, and genuine interest—all qualities hiring managers look for in candidates.
It doesn’t need to be long or elaborate. A few sentences expressing gratitude, restating your enthusiasm, and referencing your recent conversation can go a long way.
Tip:
Use professional stationery, keep your handwriting neat, and triple-check for spelling errors.
Step 3: Continue Engaging (Without Being Pushy)
If you haven’t heard back after a week or so, it’s perfectly acceptable to send a polite follow-up email. Reaffirm your interest and inquire about the status of the hiring process. Keep it concise and courteous.
Most importantly, resist the urge to follow up repeatedly. Instead, be strategic and respectful of the employer’s timeline.
Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market
In a crowded candidate pool, follow-up communication is your opportunity to show initiative, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm. A timely email, followed by a handwritten thank-you note, can make a lasting impression and keep your name at the top of the hiring manager’s mind.
Whether you’re interviewing for a temporary position or a long-term role, taking these extra steps can set you apart—and might just be what helps you land the job.
Work with a Top Rated Recruiting Firm in the U.S.
At Murray Resources, we help candidates stand out—from resume to final interview and beyond. If you’re searching for your next opportunity, check out our current job openings or contact us to get started with one of our expert recruiters.