When to Follow Up with a Recruiter?

Knowing when to follow up with a recruiter after an interview is essential. Good timing will allow you to avoid being perceived as too insistent while maintaining a constant interest in the position.

• Recommended delay: In general, it's best to wait between 7 to 10 days after the interview to send a follow-up email. This gives the recruiter time to process your application without feeling pressured.
• Special cases: If the recruiter gave you a specific timeline (e.g., "We will get back to you in a week"), wait until that delay has passed before following up. If the job posting mentioned urgency, you can follow up a bit earlier while avoiding appearing rushed.

The Best Method for Following Up with a Recruiter

The next question is: email or phone? Recruiters generally prefer email for several reasons.

• Email: Email is less intrusive and allows the recruiter to respond when they are available. It also provides a written record that's easy to find. Make sure to send it to the right address and avoid options like read receipts, which can seem too insistent.
• Phone: If you haven't received a response after a follow-up email, it may be appropriate to make a phone call. However, be prepared for the recruiter to be busy and therefore brief.

The Basics of Following Up

What to Say in a Follow-Up Email? Your follow-up should be well-structured, concise, and professional. Here are the key elements to include in your email:

• Recall the context: Mention the date of the interview, the job title, and thank the recruiter for their time.
• Reaffirm your motivation: Briefly highlight the strengths of your application in relation to the position and reaffirm your interest in the company.
• Request information: Politely ask for an update on the progress of the recruitment process and if any decisions have been made.

Adding Value to Your Follow-Up

To stand out, go beyond a simple follow-up. Add extra value to your message:

• Build on a point from the interview: If a specific topic was discussed during the interview (a project, a challenge to tackle), propose an additional solution or reflection in your email.
• Share relevant documents: You could send a work sample or study related to the discussions during the interview, demonstrating your commitment and expertise.

What to Do in Case of a Negative Response?

If the response is negative, maintain a professional attitude by thanking the recruiter for the feedback. Don't hesitate to ask for feedback on what you can improve. This will allow you to progress in your future applications.

Following up with a recruiter after a job interview can be the decisive element that tips the scales in your favor. It shows your motivation, your professionalism, and can rekindle the recruiter's interest in your profile. By following these best practices, you'll maximize your chances of getting a positive response.

Are you looking for a new professional opportunity in Belgium? Entrust your CV to Fed Group! Our experts in the Belgian job market are your allies to help you find an enriching opportunity that meets your expectations.

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