You’ve just aced your accounting internship interview, and now the waiting game begins. Following up after an interview is an essential step that can leave a lasting impression on the hiring team. However, it requires finesse to ensure your follow-up is professional and effective without coming across as pushy. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this post-interview phase.
1. Send a Thank-You Email
The first step in following up is expressing gratitude for the opportunity. A thank-you email shows professionalism and reinforces your interest in the role.
Tips for a Great Thank-You Email:
- Send It Within 24 Hours: Aim to send your thank-you note the same day or the day after your interview.
- Personalize It: Reference specific topics discussed during the interview, such as a particular case study or skill set.
- Reiterate Your Interest: Briefly restate why you’re excited about the opportunity and how your skills align with the role.
Example:
Subject: Thank You for the Interview
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me regarding the accounting internship position at [Company Name]. I greatly appreciated the opportunity to discuss how my skills in [specific skill] and [specific skill] align with the team’s needs, particularly in [reference a topic discussed].
I am excited about the chance to contribute to your team and learn more about [specific area of the company or role]. Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
2. Respect the Timeline
If the interviewer mentioned a specific time frame for their decision, respect it before reaching out again.
Steps to Take:
- Wait Patiently: Avoid following up too soon, especially if the stated timeline hasn’t passed yet.
- Mark the Deadline: Set a reminder for yourself to follow up a day or two after the promised time frame if you haven’t heard back.
3. Send a Polite Follow-Up Email
If you haven’t received any updates after the given timeline, a polite follow-up email can help you stay on the interviewer’s radar.
What to Include:
- Express Courtesy: Begin with a polite greeting and acknowledgment of their busy schedule.
- Restate Your Interest: Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
- Request an Update: Gently inquire about the status of your application without pressuring them.
Example:
Subject: Follow-Up on Accounting Internship Application
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the status of my application for the accounting internship position at [Company Name]. It was a pleasure speaking with you on [interview date], and I remain very excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.
I understand the hiring process takes time, and I appreciate the effort your team puts into finding the right candidate. Please let me know if there’s any further information I can provide to assist in the decision-making process.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
4. Connect on LinkedIn
If you haven’t done so already, connecting with your interviewer on LinkedIn is a subtle way to stay in touch and demonstrate your interest in the company.
How to Connect:
- Send a Personalized Message: Mention the interview and express appreciation for their insights during your conversation.
- Avoid Overdoing It: Don’t repeatedly engage with their posts or messages immediately after connecting.
Example Message:
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you again for the insightful conversation during my interview for the accounting internship at [Company Name]. I’d love to stay connected and learn more about [specific topic/company area discussed].
5. Prepare for a Potential Delay
In some cases, companies might take longer than expected to make a decision due to internal processes.
What to Do:
- Stay Professional: Avoid showing frustration if there’s a delay.
- Use the Time Wisely: Continue applying to other opportunities and improving your skills in accounting software or concepts.
6. Know When to Move On
If you’ve followed up twice and still haven’t heard back, it may be time to focus on other opportunities.
Signs It’s Time to Move On:
- No response after multiple follow-ups.
- Vague or noncommittal replies from the hiring team.
- You find another opportunity that excites you more.
Final Thoughts
Following up after an accounting internship interview is an art. A thoughtful thank-you email and a well-timed follow-up can reinforce your enthusiasm for the role and keep you in the employer’s mind. Just remember to be patient and professional throughout the process—your persistence and courtesy might just land you the role!