When do I follow up? | Fairygodboss

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Anonymous

11/10/20 at 10:22PM UTC

Career

When do I follow up?

Hi y'all, I recently was connected with a Director of Strategy at a really great ad agency I would love to work with. I had been connected by a friend (so outside of a normal recruiting process). It was a surprisingly great call and she said she would follow up about what's next soon, but since her kind response to my thank you note last Monday things have been silent. It sounded like she was talking to the strategy lead at her company.... (about what exactly I don't know). The big question is- I don't actually know if there is a job opening right now. We HAD spoken like there was an opportunity but there is no job posting on the company's website for what we had discussed. I want to follow up with her just to understand if this is a long term, maybe in the future situation or if there is an unposted need right now. With that said, I am trying not to be an eager beaver. Advice please.

10 Comments

Kina Gunnels

Marketing Maven

11/10/20 at 10:30PM UTC

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to be an eager beaver! I just went through a similar experience that caused me to receive an offer for a company I love. I would just reach out and just send a little note following up about the conversation you had. It doesn't hurt to see where things stand and and show that you are still interested in an opportunity if one is available. Good luck!

Kelly Daniels

Technology channel sales & business development

11/10/20 at 10:36PM UTC

My thoughts...I would be the eager beaver! This will allow you to confirm your interest in the position and company but also give you an opportunity to highlight your strengths. I would also take the time and ask if in fact there is an opportunity. I would also communicate that you are open to speaking with the strategy lead about your skills.

Liz Bronson

Authentically helping from a human perspective.

11/10/20 at 10:37PM UTC

1. You've waited long enough- do follow up! 2. Sometimes when a role is being curated, the process takes a little longer. Still, follow up showing interest and asking where things stand. They'll be happy to know they haven't lost you!

Harika Thambireddy

Product Management

11/10/20 at 10:43PM UTC

Following up is a great idea, especially after a week since your last note. It would show that you are proactive and still interested in a job there. Considering that companies usually evaluate hiring needs this time of year, I suggest that you inquire sooner than later.

User edited comment on 11/10/20 at 10:45PM UTC

Angelica Patlán

Human Resources Nonconformist

11/10/20 at 11:29PM UTC

Here's what I've learned in my career transition so far: there is no such thing as an eager beaver but rather someone who is passionate about the company. I would say to follow up every 5-8 business days to just check in and keep the message positive and focused on your interest.

Tara C.

247

Career Coach/Advocate

11/10/20 at 11:29PM UTC

I generally advise about a week - you want to give the person time because, while it's at the top of your list, it's not always on theirs! But I think a week is a good check-in point (unless they gave you a later date). Keep it simple, though, so it feels more like a reiteration of interest rather than pushing them. These days, too, with COVID and the loooong election week, there are even more things on people's plates than normally. So if you wanted to wait two weeks, you could justify that.

Carolyn Uzelac

Marketing Strategist with a passion for brands

11/11/20 at 1:03AM UTC

Agree - definitely follow up and keep checking back in. I'd say every two weeks, but go with your gut. My one suggestion would be, check back in with a relevant comment about the agency's recent work, in-market activity for one of the brands they look after, link to an article about comms innovation or consumer trends. I've been the head of strat planning in a few agencies, and I was always on the lookout for good talent (and still am!). The key is to prove yourself to be bright, motivated and useful! If you have spare time, you could also offer to work on a project for her at no cost - doing desk research, putting together data for a preso, investigating market trends. I wouldn't just spam her with 'How's it going/just keeping in touch.' Show how much you'd love to work with her! All the best!

User edited comment on 11/11/20 at 1:04AM UTC

sandmanstone

119

11/11/20 at 1:37AM UTC

A pragmatic idea for you - find a reason to reach out. "I came across this article in Fast Company, and it reminded me of our conversation on cultural change, and I wanted to share it with you" - that way you are giving your contact something of value, and you are reminding them about your conversation. :)