Follow up!

How to follow up with an employer you met at last week's career fair, or at any networking opportunity, may seem like one of life's great mysteries. The same holds true when you submit a resume. If you follow up are you going to be annoying and destroy forever your chances of being hired by a particular company or recruiter? On the other hand, if you don't follow up do you risk going into that deep dark hole, never to be seen again? What is that so called happy medium?

One thing I learned from an employer is don't call and say "I'm calling to follow up on my resume (or the career fair last week)." As this recruiter put it, "if you're going to take my time, be ready to play" -- in other words be prepared to tell her why it would benefit her to look at you as a viable candidate for employment.

Follow up requires preparation. This is a time when your 30 second introduction will come in handy. Prepare your own script, but here's an example:

“Ms. Smith, I was referred to you by Adam Long, of your recruiting team, who I met at the career fair at Wichita State last week. I will graduate in December with a master's degree in Aerospace Engineering. My cumulative gpa is 3.7. I have worked two summer internships with other aircraft manufacturing companies in Wichita. As President of Engineering Council at WSU, I've demonstrated strong leadership skills. I have applied online and I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce myself to you, as Mr. Long recommended. Your organization is at the top of my list of places I'd like to begin my engineering career because of your excellent reputation and innovative products. Thank you for your time today. May I provide you with any additional information?”

It's scary to follow up. It puts you right out there. On the other hand, follow up transforms you from an electronic record or paper resume to a real person. Now, that's a good thing.