Following up by Phone

Before you pick up the phone, decide WHAT you are going to say when you call your potential employer.

When contacting your potential employers, you should not directly ask "Did I get the job?"  Instead, you must use some finesse and tact, which can be challenging. 

• If you decide to call, WRITE DOWN what you plan to say first.  You could say, "Hi, Mr. Samson.  How are you?  I really enjoyed meeting with you and am very interested in the auto mechanic position that I interviewed for.  Is there any information about the status of the job?"  
  
  
• REHEARSE what you are going to say beforehand.  Read aloud what you have written so that it sounds fluid and professional.  When you call, make sure your tone of voice is upbeat and positive.

Here is an example of a possible phone script:

What if they don’t answer?

You should also plan what to say on your interviewer’s voicemail in case they do not answer or in case you are required to leave a message with another person. WRITE DOWN what you are going to say before calling and make sure to REHEARSE it beforehand so you are well-prepared.

What to expect after you leave a voicemail or message:

• If you leave a message, do not be alarmed if your interviewer does not call you back immediately.  
• Wait at least 3 full business days before calling them back if you do not hear back from them.  After contacting your interviewer TWICE, stop contacting them. 
• Do not leave more than 2 messages and do not call them more than twice.  Anything more is badgering them and your chances of getting the job will decrease. 

Here is an example of a message you might leave on voicemail:

When you contact a potential employer by phone, here are the points to include in your conversation: First, thank them again for giving you the opportunity to interview. Express your interest in the job. Politely ask when they might make a decision about who they are going to hire for the position. Thank them again for their time. Remember to speak clearly and don’t talk too fast! "Hi Mr. _________, this is _________. I interviewed with you a few days and really enjoyed talking to you." "I wanted to follow up with you to find out if you had any information about the status of the hiring process."  "I am very interested in the position and would love to know when a decision will be made if that is possible." "Please feel free to contact me at your convenience." "My telephone number is (xxx) xxx-xxxx.  I can also be reached by email." "Thank you very much for your consideration." "Goodbye."