A thank-you email, within a day
Send a short email to the people who interviewed you, the same day or the next. Three short paragraphs are enough:
- Thank them for their time, and name the job.
- Mention one thing from the conversation that interested you.
- Say you are still keen, and that you look forward to hearing from them.
If several people interviewed you, send each a short note, with a different detail in each.
If you hear nothing
Employers often say when they will decide. Wait until that day has passed, then send a polite follow-up asking how things stand. If they gave no date, a week or two is a fair wait.
One follow-up is enough. If there is still no answer, put your energy into other applications.
An offer
Thank them, and ask for the offer in writing if it was made by phone. Read it carefully: the salary, the start date, the notice period and anything you have to agree to.
Wait until you have the written offer before you resign from your current job. The resignation letter format guide has the next steps.
A rejection
A short reply thanking them for their time keeps the door open. You can ask for feedback. Not every employer gives it, but some do, and it can help with the next interview.