A follow-up email is different from a thank-you note: it's the polite check-in you send when the timeline they gave you has passed with no word. Done right, it signals continued interest and professionalism. Wait until at least one business day after the date they said they'd decide, then keep it brief and low-pressure.
Subject: Following up — [Role] interview Hi [Interviewer's Name], I hope you're well. I wanted to follow up on the [Role] position I interviewed for on [date]. I remain very interested in joining [team/company] and contributing to [specific goal]. If there's any update on the timeline, I'd be grateful to hear it. Thank you again for your time. Best regards, [Your Name]
Replace the text in [brackets] with your own details.
Subject: Following up — Operations Analyst interview Hi Mr. Lee, I hope you're having a good week. I'm following up on the Operations Analyst role I interviewed for on 3 June. I'm still very enthusiastic about the opportunity and the work your team is doing on supply-chain visibility. If there's any update on next steps, I'd appreciate hearing it. Thanks again for your time. Best regards, James Carter
Subject: Quick update — Senior Designer role Hi Dana, I wanted to share a quick update: I've received another offer with a decision deadline of next Friday. Your team remains my first choice, so before I respond I wanted to check whether there's any update on your timeline. Happy to talk if that's easier. Thank you! Best, Priya Anand
If they gave a decision date, wait one business day past it. If they didn't, 5–7 business days after the interview is reasonable.
Once, then one more time after about a week if still silent. Beyond that, assume they've moved on and focus your energy elsewhere.
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