Tips For After The Interview
Posted April 25, 2013 & filed under Interviewing
Tips for After the Interview:
So you just interviewed for your dream job. Now what? Many think they are at the mercy of the hiring manager, sitting and waiting to hear the news. However, sealing the deal often times takes place after the interview. With dozens of qualified candidates applying for selective positions, you can never be too sure. Taking the time to follow up properly is vital. Here are some of our favorite techniques.
1. Thank you notes.
Thanking whoever you interviewed with is always a good idea regardless of the position you are applying for. There is debate of whether a written note or email sends a better impression, but it depends on the situation. Email is obviously faster, but it’s important to consider the company’s culture when sending a thank you. If the company holds traditional and old fashion values, a hand written note is more appropriate. However, if you’re interviewing at a social media or digital advertising firm, for example, emailing is more compatible with the company culture.
Constructing an effective thank you is simple, and has three basic parts. The first is simply expressing your gratitude to the interviewer. Thank them for taking the time to meet with you. Secondly, reiterate your interest in the position and why you think you’d be an ideal fit. Lastly, close by telling them you are looking forward to the next step in the process. Also, if you meet with more than one person, it’s important to write each person their own thank you. This allows you to address them individually, making them more personal.
2. Break the silence.
If you haven’t heard anything within the timeframe given, call or email your contact at the company. Many applicants are afraid of pestering the decision maker but reaching out is the best way to receive information. It demonstrates initiative and shows your interest.
3. Recover.
If you didn’t make the best impression during your interview, now is your time to recover. Contacting the interviewer and offering additional resources is a great way to save face. Offering work samples or references can only help your cause.
4. Feedback.
Not all news is good news, so it’s important to treat each interview as a learning experience and grow from each potential opportunity. If they decide to move forward with other candidates, asking for feedback about the interview is a great way to pinpoint areas to improve upon. This way, you’ll be even better prepared next time.
Not all decisions are made while in the hot seat. How you handle the interviewing process as a whole can make or break your chances at a new position. Do you have any pointers for after the interview? We’d love to hear about them! Email your suggestions to dublin@omnione.com
Omni One specializes in the placement of engineers and technical professionals. Our service is employer paid, and at no cost to you. If you are currently looking for a better career opportunity, please send a word copy of your resume to dublin@omnione.com and visit omnione.com to view all of our available positions.
