You've met with a recruiter. Now what?

In this post we'll talk about how to keep lines of communication open during the job search process. 

Send follow up communication immediately

The first step after meeting a recruiter or representative from a company is always to follow up and do so quickly.

• Met a recruiter at a career fair or networking event? Send an email that night. 
• Have a guest speaker in your class? Introduce yourself after class and immediately connect on LinkedIn.
• You got included on an email introduction from a mutual acquaintance? Reply within 24 hours. 

Complete any action items given

Did the recruiter ask for your resume? or ask you to apply to a position through the company website? or sign up for an interview slot on Handshake? 

If so, do whatever they asked you to do in a timely manner. 

Following up post interview

Send a thank you note or email within 24 hours of an interview. Even if you didn't interview with that particular recruiter, email them to let them know how it went and to thank them for passing along your resume. 

What method of contact should you use?

It's always a good idea to ASK each individual recruiter you meet how they'd like for you to follow up. Some prefer email, some LinkedIn, some phone and it's hard to tell if you don't ask. 

Email is usually a good place to start. A well-written email can go a long way to make you stand out as a candidate. A follow-up email should include:

1. 1. A descriptive subject line
   2. A proper greeting line: "Hello Alex,"
   3. A few details you discussed during your previous conversation
   4. Enthusiasm for the position 
   5. Keep your email brief and triple check spelling/grammar before you hit send

Remember no matter what channel you use, following up promptly is what's most important. 

---