​So, you've nailed the interview (or at least, you think you did.) Now what? Do you sit by the phone, refreshing your inbox like a lovesick teenager? Do you send a 500-word email on why you're the one? Or do you just do nothing and hope for the best? Let’s talk about what you should and definitely should not do when following up after an interview.

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The Dos: How to Be Smooth, Professional, and Unforgettable

1. Send a Thank-You Email

Timing: Within 24 hours. Keep it short, genuine, and specific. Something like:

"Hi [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today about [role]. I really enjoyed learning more about [company] and was particularly excited by [something specific from the conversation]. Looking forward to hearing from you!"

Short, sweet, and not desperate.

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2. Show Enthusiasm

You want them to know you're interested, but don’t make them feel like they’re your only option. Confidence is attractive. Something like:

"I’m really excited about the potential to join [company] and contribute to [specific goal or project]. Please let me know if you need anything further from me."

You’re keen, but not clingy. Well played.

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3. Follow Up If You Haven’t Heard Back (But Don’t Be a Nuisance)

If they said they'd get back to you by Friday and it's now Wednesday of the next week, you can send a polite nudge:

"Hi [Name], I hope you’re having a great week. Just checking in to see if there are any updates regarding the [position] role. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!"

One follow-up is fine. Two, maybe—if they seemed really interested. Three? Time to move on.

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4. Keep Engaging, But Indirectly

If you're really keen on the company but haven't heard back, interact with their content on LinkedIn, share a relevant article, or engage in industry discussions. Stay on their radar without being that person.

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The Don’ts: How to Avoid Looking a Bit Desperate

1. Don’t Send a LinkedIn Request 30 Seconds After the Interview

You just met them. Let the connection breathe. Give it at least until after you send your thank-you email.

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2. Don’t Overcomplicate Your Thank-You Email

A thank-you email is not your opportunity to clarify that one answer you feel you fumbled. It’s also not the time to rewrite your CV in a novel format. Keep it short, or you may risk being the candidate they “appreciate but won’t pursue.”

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3. Don’t Demand an Answer

Nothing screams ‘red flag’ like an email that says, “I’d appreciate an immediate response as I have other offers on the table.” Even if it’s true, arrogance is not a good look.

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4. Don’t Ghost Them

If you’ve lost interest in the role, let them know. It’s basic professional courtesy. A simple "Thank you for the opportunity, but I’ve decided to go in a different direction" is enough. People remember how you exit situations, and burning bridges is not something you want to do when you're building your career.

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Play It Cool, But Play to Win

Show interest, respect boundaries, and don’t be too available. Nail the balance, and you’ll stand out for the right reasons.