What to Do After an Interview in Australia: Follow Up Emails and Next Steps

What to do after an interview in Australia follow up emails and next steps is one of those things that many people don’t think about until after the interview. You’ve finished the interview, but what do you do next? The information online is vague and doesn’t tell you what actually works. I’ve followed up after interviews, and I’ve watched friends do it. Some followed up well. Others didn’t follow up or did it poorly. The difference was knowing what to do and when.

Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve followed up after many interviews, and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Some follow ups helped. Others didn’t. The difference was understanding how to follow up effectively.

So here’s everything I know about what to do after interviews in Australia, based on what actually works.

The Follow Up Email: When and How

This is the most common follow up, and here’s how to do it.

Send it within 24 hours: send a follow up email within 24 hours of the interview. This shows professionalism and interest.

Keep it brief: thank them for their time, reiterate your interest, and mention something specific from the interview. Keep it to a few paragraphs.

Be professional: use proper email format, check for typos, and be respectful. Don’t be pushy or demanding.

But here’s what I’ve learned: follow up emails can help, but they’re not always necessary. Some employers appreciate them. Others don’t. But sending one doesn’t hurt, and it shows professionalism.

What to Include: The Key Elements

This is important, because what you include matters.

Thank them: thank them for their time and the opportunity to interview.

Reiterate interest: briefly mention why you’re interested in the role and company.

Mention something specific: reference something specific from the interview. This shows you were paying attention.

But here’s what I’ve learned: keep it brief and professional. Don’t write a long email. A few paragraphs is enough. Show appreciation and interest, and that’s usually sufficient.

Sample Follow Up Email

Here’s a sample that works:

Subject: Thank You – [Position] Interview

Dear [Interviewer Name],

Thank you for taking the time to interview me today for the [position] role. I enjoyed learning more about [company] and the position.

I’m particularly interested in [something specific from the interview], and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]

But here’s what I’ve learned: this is a template. Adapt it to your situation. Keep it brief, professional, and specific. Don’t use generic templates.

Next Steps: What to Expect

This is important, because understanding what happens next helps you manage expectations.

They might tell you: when you’ll hear back, next steps in the process, or if they need anything else.

They might not tell you: when you’ll hear back or what happens next. Don’t assume you’ll hear back immediately.

But here’s what I’ve learned: be patient. Interview processes take time. Don’t follow up too frequently. Wait a reasonable time before following up again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to send a follow up email?

Not always, but it’s usually a good idea. It shows professionalism and interest. Most employers appreciate it.

When should I send it?

Within 24 hours is ideal. Don’t send it immediately after the interview. Give it a few hours, but send it within 24 hours.

What if I don't hear back?

Wait a reasonable time, usually a week or two, then follow up politely. But don’t be pushy. One follow up is usually enough.

Should I call or email?

Email is usually better. It’s less intrusive and gives them time to respond. But if they’ve asked you to call, do that.

How do I know if I got the job?

They’ll tell you. Don’t assume based on the interview. Wait for their response, and be patient.

What if I have questions after the interview?

You can ask in your follow up email, but keep it brief. Don’t ask many questions. One or two is usually enough.

Final Thoughts

What to do after interviews in Australia includes sending a follow up email within 24 hours, being patient, and managing expectations. Send a brief, professional follow up email thanking them and reiterating your interest. Be patient, and don’t follow up too frequently.

Don’t overthink it. Follow up emails are usually appreciated, but they’re not always necessary. Send one if you want, but don’t stress about it. Focus on the interview itself, and follow up professionally.

I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Be patient. Interview processes take time. Send a follow up email, but then be patient. Don’t follow up too frequently. Wait for their response, and manage your expectations.

If you’re still wondering what to do after interviews, send a brief follow up email within 24 hours, be patient, and manage your expectations. Don’t overthink it. Follow up professionally, and then wait for their response.