Why you must follow up with recruiters during your hiring process and how to do it efficiently

A few years ago, I was looking for a new apartment and came across one of those opportunities that look too good to be true.

It was a beautiful and underpriced apartment in my neighborhood. I sent some messages to the agent, but she didn't answer. Why is that?

My first (and only) thought was that the apartment was unavailable. However, as the ad was still there a few weeks later, I decided to go to the agency and expressed interest in that property.

The following day, the agent called me. I visited the apartment and rented it.

That was just another manifestation of the relevance of following up. And the same happens with the recruiters you deal with when you seek a job.

Reasons for following up

If you are a compromised person (one who hardly ever fails to respond or do what was requested), you'll probably not see it. You may only think of the worst reason (same as I do).

But people have plenty of (good) reasons not to answer you:

• They are busy
• They forgot
• They doubt your interest
• Etc.

We can't see it because it's so important to us that we can't understand why someone wouldn't reply. However, we are just one of the many candidates the recruiters deal with daily. I'm not saying this in a derogative way, but it's how it is.

The deal may represent a significant change in our lives, but not theirs.

So, it's always positive to keep in touch and send reminders to them. But how can we do it without being pushy or showing despair?

How to do it efficiently

The limit between a proper follow-up and being insistent is thin and dynamic. Every person and situation is different. But I have 2 golden rules that I respect whenever I'm waiting for someone's answer:

• Let people work: The time between my request and the follow-ups depends on the request and urgency. But I always give the person some time to act before following up.
• Treat others as I would like to be treated: Even when people don't reply, I'm respectful in my communications with them. I may use strong words when the situation requires it, but always with respect.

If I follow those rules, my conscience is clear. However, it doesn't mean I always get what I ask for.

In the case of a hiring process, these are some of the strategies I use and combine:

• Ask about the process during the interview. I'd say this is a must. I have to know whether there will be 2 interviews or 7. Then, I'll know their timelines and how long it would take.
• Leave an open topic to reach out to the person interviewing me. It can be some extra information or supporting documents on topics discussed during the meeting.
• Send a message thanking them for their time, adding extra information, or setting expectations right after the interview (later that day or first thing the following day).
• Send a follow-up message after a few days. How many are "a few" will depend on the interview process and stage. If I couldn't gather any information about timelines, anything between 3 to 5 working days is fine. They may reply with a better idea of the process and their plan.

I treat the interview process like I deal with customers, coworkers, or vendors.

Conclusion

Following up is fundamental to getting our needs met, whether we want to rent an apartment or get a job.

Each person has different reasons for not attending to our demands. Gently remind them that you are waiting for an answer.

During the interview, ask questions to understand their timelines and create compromises to stay in touch. That's how you collect information on how to follow up with them.