Sales Interview Follow Up Email: A Template

What you should include in a follow-up email after a final interview depends on how the interview went. What must be stressed is the importance of sending a follow-up email. Very few candidates follow through with this important step. Let us share some data to help convince you of this importance. According to Workable, the average US company interviews 14 candidates before making a sales hire. That means that you have a 1 in 14 shot of getting hired when you start an interview process. We have received the feedback from hiring managers that follow-up emails do help candidates stand out. To help you with this, we have built two interview follow-up email templates (one simple and one advanced sales interview follow-up email example). Before we get to them, we want to share a few email follow-up pitfalls.

Introduction to Interview Follow Up

When it comes to job interviews, making a good impression is crucial. However, the interview process doesn’t end with the final question. A well-crafted follow-up email can make a significant difference in showing continued interest in the position and leaving a lasting impression on the hiring manager. In this section, we will explore the importance of follow-up emails, their purpose, and how to write effective ones that can boost your chances of landing your dream job. At the end of this post are two sample sales interview follow up email templates.

Understanding the Purpose of a Follow-Up Email

A follow-up email is a polite and professional way to reiterate your interest in the job title and express gratitude for the interviewer’s time. Its primary purpose is to keep you top of mind for the hiring manager and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role. A follow-up email can also be used to provide additional information, answer any remaining questions, or address any concerns that may have arisen during the interview process. By sending a follow-up email, you can show that you are proactive, organized, and genuinely interested in the position.

Best Practices for Writing a Follow-Up Email

Writing a follow-up email requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the hiring process. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

• Send the follow-up email within a few hours of the interview before the hiring manager makes up their mind regarding who they want to move forward in the process.
• Use a clear and concise subject line that indicates the purpose of the email.
• Address the hiring manager by name to add a personal touch.
• Express gratitude for the interviewer’s time and reiterate your interest in the position.
• Keep the email brief and to the point, avoiding unnecessary details or information.
• Proofread the email carefully to ensure there are no spelling errors or typos.

Interview Follow Up Email Pitfalls.

1. Failure to follow up. Surprisingly, the average job-seeker fails to send a follow up email after an interview. Do send a Thank you email after every interview. Don’t leave the hiring manager wondering if you also fail to follow up with customers and prospects.
2. Poor writing skills. Nothing can ruin your chances faster than a poorly written email. Do use a free online writing tool like grammarly to spell and grammar check your email. Don’t write a Thank you email on your mobile phone. The small screen almost guarantees that you will make a mistake. Acknowledge previous emails to maintain engagement and clarify your intentions.
3. Keep it short. A longer email dilutes your message and is difficult to read on a mobile device. According to HubSpot, 41% of business professionals check their email on their mobile devices. We would be surprised if that figure wasn’t higher with B2B sales leaders.

Now let’s get to our interview follow up email examples.

Simple Interview Email Follow Up Example.

A short, sweet “Thank you” email fits situations where the hiring manager expressed their desire to move forward, and you are the clear front runner. Starting the first paragraph with a simple “thank you” note sets a positive tone and demonstrates solid writing skills and follow through. Use a clear and concise subject line that indicates the purpose of the email. Crafting effective subject lines is crucial for capturing the recipient’s attention and increasing the likelihood of the email being opened. Here’s a template.

Susan,

Thank you for your time today. Your passion for XYZ’s mission is inspiring.

[Insert one piece that you learned during the interview that excites you or speaks to how you fit the role here.]  I appreciate your candor that the California territory is underperforming and will require heavy prospecting to exceed sales goals. Nothing gets me going more than a challenge, and I would welcome the opportunity to help you turn it around.

I look forward to continuing the conversation with you to explore the opportunity with XYZ.

All the best,

Chris

Advanced Interview Email Follow Up Example.

Use the advanced example below when you want the hiring manager to reconsider you or to help elevate you when there’s stiff competition.

To accomplish this, give them one strong reason why your qualifications make a valuable contribution to their team. Here are a few ways to help separate yourself.

1. Share evidence that you’ve had success with the most difficult part of their job. (HINT: Ask the interviewer what this is during the interview.)
2. Tell a very short story that speaks to your ability to make an impact in a similar role or environment.
3. Attach documentation of your sales performance.

Once you have chosen your one compelling reason, you’re ready to craft your email. It can look something like this.

John,

Thank you again for your time today. What you shared with me about XYZ’s future growth opportunities cemented my interest in your Major Account position.

During our interview, you shared some of the challenges that I would face in starting a brand new territory for XYZ. In 2023, I took over a new territory for my current employer. Attached are my sales figures for that year, including a copy of my annual review. I finished 2023 at 118% of quota and #3/21 reps for new client acquisition.

I’m confident and excited to earn the opportunity to repeat or exceed that performance at XYZ.

I look forward to hearing back from you regarding the next step, and please let me know if you have any questions I can answer.

All my best,

Chris

Personalization and Authenticity

Personalization and authenticity are key elements of a successful follow-up email. By referencing specific details from the interview conversation, you can show that you were actively listening and genuinely interested in the role. Additionally, including personal details, such as your career path or future goals, can help establish a connection with the hiring manager and make your email more memorable. However, be sure to balance personalization and professionalism, avoiding overly casual or familiar language.

When to Send the Interview Follow Up Email

We suggest that you send the email between one to four hours following an interview. This includes phone interviews. Emails that are sent right away can come across as too eager. The hiring manager can also wonder if you take the time to make important decisions. Why less than four hours? If you wait more than four hours, there’s a strong chance that the hiring manager has already made up their mind. If you don’t receive a response back from the interviewer, consider sending a follow-up email three days after the interview. If there is still no response, sending another follow-up email after two weeks serves as a gentle reminder and demonstrates your continued interest.

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

In conclusion, a well-crafted follow-up email is an essential part of the interview process. By following best practices, personalizing your email, and being authentic, you can make a positive impression on the hiring manager and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember to send your follow-up email promptly, use a clear and concise subject line, and express gratitude for the interviewer’s time. With these tips and a bit of practice, you can write effective follow-up emails that will help you stand out from other candidates and achieve your career goals. Whether you’re looking for a new job or trying to advance in your current career, a follow-up email can be a valuable tool in your job search arsenal.