Ask a Manager

A reader writes:

I had a great interview with a company, but unfortunately did not get the job because they wanted someone with more experience. The HR manager said to check in with her from time to time. What is the best way to do this without seeming pushy? What is the best thing to say? My interview was at the end of June and I don’t want her to forget about me!

Send her an email roughly once a month. Anything like the following is fine, although vary it so you’re not sending the same thing each time:

“Hi, Jane. You suggested I check back with you occasionally, and I wanted to reiterate how very interested I remain in working with you. I’d love to know if you see any openings coming up that might be a good match. Hope all is well with you.”

“Just saw this interesting article and thought you might find it interesting too.” (Make sure the article really is likely to be of interest to her.)

“I saw you’re launching a new product line — you guys must be very busy right now. Congratulations on the new project. Still very interested in being of assistance if the right opening comes along.”

“I saw you’re hiring for a ___, which isn’t my area of specialty, but I’m forwarding the resume of a candidate who you might be interested in reaching out to.”

And so forth.

What you don’t want to do is call her every month and say, “Got any jobs?” Be friendly, offer things of value and interest, and don’t push too much. The idea is that you’re keeping yourself on her radar, without being over the top about it.

Good luck!