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Networking Tips to Land Your First Job

The Road from College to That First Job is Difficult -- So Let Us Help

Be Persistent

Q: In your book, you write about being persistent – without being a pest. Can you share a tip or two for how a job seeker should know how to identify that fine line between following up enough and too much?

Lindsey: There really is a fine line. The right kind of persistence is always polite, positive and appropriately timed. You should send a thank you email within 12 to 24 hours of a formal job interview using the tips in the previous answer. Then mark in your calendar to wait one full week before attempting any other follow up. I know a week feels like a long time when you want a job, but it’s a short time to the person who interviewed you.

If you don't hear back after a full week (or even 10 days), it's okay to send a second email. Now here's the fine line: it's pestering to write, "I haven't heard back from you and I wanted to know if you're still interested in hiring me." It’s polite and appropriate to say, "I wanted to thank you again for our interview last week. In the meantime, I've read more on [something you discussed] and [then say something you learned or an idea this research sparked]. Would you be able to let me know any next steps at this point?"

 

  • Miriam Salpeter

    Miriam Salpeter, author of Social Networking for Career Success (Learning Express, 2011) and 100 Conversations for Career Success (Learning Express, Fall, 2012), owns her own job search and social media coaching firm, Keppie Careers. Miriam … Read more...