📢 How to Get Interview Calls After Your PhD Applications! 🎯 1️⃣ Send a Follow-Up Email (But Do It Right!) If you cold-emailed a professor before applying and didn’t receive a response, now is the perfect time to follow up. Here’s what to include: ✅ A polite reminder that you’ve submitted your application ✅ A short sentence on why their lab aligns with your research goals ✅ A question about their latest research or upcoming projects 🔥 Pro tip: Professors are more likely to respond after you’ve applied because they know you’re a serious candidate! 2️⃣ Make Sure Your Application is Easily Scannable Admissions committees go through hundreds of applications. If your CV, SoP, or research proposal is dense and hard to skim, you might be overlooked. ✅ Use bolded keywords to highlight your best achievements ✅ Make clear connections between your skills and the PhD project ✅ Use quantifiable results (e.g., “Published 2 papers on…” instead of “Worked on research…”) 3️⃣ Connect on LinkedIn Yes, professors and committee members do check LinkedIn! ✅ Send a connection request to professors and mention your application ✅ Engage with their research posts ✅ Share an update about your PhD journey, tagging relevant institutions This keeps you visible and shows genuine interest. 4️⃣ Leverage Your Network If you know PhD students in the same department, reach out! ✅ Ask about the interview process ✅ Get insights on selection criteria ✅ See if they can mention your name to their PI A simple introduction can make a big difference. 5️⃣ Express Availability for an Interview Sometimes professors assume you’re unreachable or busy. If the application portal has a section for additional comments, add: 📌 “I would love the opportunity to discuss my research fit further and am available for an interview at your convenience.” This small sentence subtly invites them to reach out! 6️⃣ Stay Active in Relevant Forums Many departments host Q&A sessions, online research discussions, or open days—attend them! Ask a question, introduce yourself, and follow up via email. It signals serious intent and increases your chances of getting noticed. 🔹 Final Takeaway: Getting an interview isn’t just about your application—it’s about how you position yourself after submission. The PhD world values initiative—so take these steps and get that call! 📞✨ #phdapplications #gradschool #phdinterview #researchlife #academictips