Tips: How to Follow up on a remote job interview

As remote work becomes more popular, the job interview process often requires more effort from the applicant. While the traditional in-person job interview may still be an option, it's important to know how to follow up on a remote job interview, too.

After all, the interview process is often a very delicate balance between showing enthusiasm for the job and not appearing too eager. If you are truly determined to secure the job you desire, you may need to go beyond the norm and take the extra steps necessary to increase your chances.

When it comes to landing a job offer, qualifications and experience are only part of the equation. Hiring managers will also want to know if your personality is a good fit for the company. How you present yourself in all your interactions with the hiring manager will show that you are willing to make an effort to get to know the people and the working style of the company. This includes how you follow up after the job interview. 

Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that you make the best possible impression on the interviewer and have the best possible chance of landing the job.

1. Always send a thank you note, after every interview (tip: don’t wait more than one day post-interview). This is a great way to show the hiring manager your appreciation for the interview and the chance to present yourself. Take this as an opportunity to share some additional information about yourself that may strengthen your connection with the hiring manager. E.g you can refer to or expand on a topic/conversation that you were having during the interview. This shows interest and a good memory. 
2. After that, review the hiring process to see what the timeline is and when you can expect to hear back from the company. Haven’t heard from the hiring manager since your interview? Waiting at least one week to follow up is a good idea, as it will give them time to process the interview. When you do follow up, make sure to keep it short and sweet. It is important to show that you are still interested in the job. Writing a brief follow-up email is a great way to do this. In the email, thank the interviewer again for their time and you could even include an invitation to connect on LinkedIn. An email is a great option, as it's less intrusive than a phone call. 
3. Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out if there’s a delay in the process. If you don’t hear from the employer after a few weeks, it may be a good idea to follow up and inquire about any updates. Doing so shows that you’re still interested and that you’re not afraid to take the initiative.

Note for your next interview to help you: At the end of a job interview, it's always a good idea to ask the hiring manager when it would be appropriate to follow up. This way, you'll know an approximate timeline for when you should expect to hear about a potential job offer.

However, keep in mind, if they told you not to follow up, then don’t! Otherwise, they’ll think you didn't understand them properly, or that you simply just didn't care. That will decrease your chances of getting contacted. The most you can do in this case, is only send a follow-up thank you note the day after the interview, and wait for them to get in touch. 

The response of the hiring manager can reveal a lot about a company's culture and values. While it's common for employers to provide closure on your job application, the manner in which they communicate can also be telling. If the hiring manager ignores your emails, that may be an indication that their communication style is not in line with your preferences, or that the company culture is not one you want to be a part of.

On the other hand, if the hiring manager is prompt and responsive in their communication style, this can be a sign that the company is efficient and professional. It's also a sign that they value the job applicant and want to provide the best experience possible.

It's also important to remember that the hiring process is unpredictable, so don't be discouraged if you don't hear back immediately. Be patient and keep your options open in the meantime

Following up on a remote job interview does not need to be a difficult or stressful process. By taking these few simple steps, you can make sure that you make the best possible impression and have the best chance of landing the job. Keeping these tips in mind will help you stay professional and maintain a good relationship with the hiring manager.

With a little bit of thought and effort, you can ensure that you stand out from the crowd and get the job of your dreams.