Follow-Up is Key to Job Search Success!

So maybe you are one of the over 1500 students who attended the Connection Job Fair last week. What do you do now? If you really want that internship opportunity you learned more about at the fair, then follow-up is key for you to move forward in the process.

3 Reasons Follow-Up Makes a Difference

1.       Every time you follow up with employers, your name gets in front of them again – a great tool to remind employers of conversations you had at Connection.

2.      When you reach out to employers after meeting them, you are demonstrating your sincere interest in their organization and the internship opportunity.

3.      You are proving that you know how to take initiative, not something all your peers can do.

How to Follow-Up

The best way to make contact after an initial conversation with an employer is to call the employer, if at all possible. Why is calling preferable to an email? Calling is more personal than an email. Many employers are difficult to catch by phone. To avoid playing phone tag, when you leave a voice mail message, be sure to

1.       Leave your first and last name

2.      Let the employer know why you are calling, i.e. to check on the status of your application

3.      Slowly give your phone number

4.      Let the employer know a few times you will definitely be available when they can return your call  

5.      Repeat your name and phone number one last time before hanging up

A Follow-Up Success Story

A few years ago, late in the fall semester, Megan applied for a Career Services Internship. Right before final exams, she was invited for an interview via email. However, the email went into her Junk Mail which she rarely checked. Over Winter Break, as Megan cleaned out her Junk Mail, she came upon the email interview invitation. She was horrified! She had missed an opportunity!

Immediately she emailed the Internship Coordinator and told her what had happened and apologized for the oversight. And, Megan asked if there were still any spots available as she was really interested in getting experience. After doing some checking, the Intern Coordinator connected Megan to a possible opportunity with an advisor. Megan interviewed for the position, accepted the offer and gained valuable experience that helped her obtain her first full-time position after graduation.

That’s just one follow-up success story; there are lots more. Let us know how follow up helped move you forward in the job search process!! Follow up can be a difference maker!