How can I word an email to find out if a decision has been made for a job I interviewed for?

Question

I interviewed for a job a week ago and I was told they expected to make a decision by the end of the week. However its gone past that now and I haven't heard anything. So I thought i'd write them an email to find out, esp as I have a job offer from somewhere else. Anyone have any suggestions on how I could word it to show my interest and not sound desperate?

Answer 1

If you want to impress (and get an answer) phone rather than sending an email.

Answer 2

If they told you that they were making a decision by the end of the week, and that deadline has passed, and they have not been in touch with you, then you were unsuccessful on that occasion. They do not have to get back to all the interviewees, only the successful candidate. If I were you, I would not even bother with an email. What I would do in your shoes, is call them on the phone and ask them for some feedback from your interview. They are duty bound to supply this and to explain why they chose another candidate rather than yourself. They may reveal something about you that you were not aware of, or you nay learn how to get through another interview with more clout.

Answer 3

Here's something I might say:



Hi, [Name of Recruiter or Hiring Manager].



Thank you again for the opportunity to interview with you last week. I really enjoyed our dialog, and I'm still very interested in this position. I am emailing today to inquire about the status of my candidacy. I have an offer from another employer, but I am holding off on responding to that offer until I hear back from you. I would need to know something by [whatever your deadline is].



Thanks again, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.



Best regards,

[Your Name]



Of course if they remain non-responsive by the deadline you provided, then go with your other offer.

Answer 4

Give it a couple more days then ring. Just ask politely if you could have an update on your application. E-mails are too easy to ignore.

Answer 5

Any communication from applicants after an interview will make them look desperate, unprofessional and completely unemployable.