After your job interview, you still have a measure of control over the hiring process. In fact, in some ways, your interview is only the beginning of the conversation. The right follow-up strategy can
significantly increase your chances for success.
After a Phone Screen
After a telephone screen, send your interviewers a quick email message. Thank them for their time and indicate your continued interest in the job. Your note should include verbiage like “I look forward to hearing from you in the near future” and “If you need further information at this time, please let me know.”
After a Face-to-Face Interview
Now, you’re a serious contender. Starting even before you leave your interview, follow a more structured, step-by-step follow-up process:
- At the end of your interview, ask about the next step. Before you shake hands and head for your car, find out what the hiring time frame is and when the employer plans to contact candidates.
- As soon as you get home, write down your notes and key interview questions. It’s important to do this ASAP before you have a chance to forget details such as interviewers’ names and who asked which question. Also record your observations and any questions you may still have about the job and the company.
- Hold a post mortem. Analyze the entire experience with a trusted friend. When you’re in the midst of an interview, it’s easy to be dazzled by the positive attention you’re getting. After the fact, a smart, objective and even slightly cynical friend will keep you grounded.
- Send handwritten thank-you notes to each person you met. Here’s where your notes will come in handy. Even in today’s social media age, hiring managers continue to report that well-written, thoughtful notes often are the deciding factor between two equally qualified candidates. Use a blank notecard and keep it short. Make each interviewer’s note different and specific to what the two of you discussed. Mail them within one to two business days.
- Your thank-you note should have three elements: Begin by thanking the interviewer. Then reiterate why you’re a good fit. Close by saying you look forward to the next step.
Breaking the Silence
What happens if an employer tells you you’ll hear back from them by Tuesday, it’s already Thursday and you’ve had no feedback? It’s possible that you didn’t make the cut. But it’s equally likely that the hiring manager just got busy.
- Call or email. If there’s no reply, try again in a few days. Be brief, polite and professional. Most interviewers will be impressed by your perseverance, communication skills and interest.
- Keep your message positive. Don’t sound defensive, desperate or accusatory. Just remind them of your conversation, say you enjoyed it and ask where they are in the hiring process. It’s helpful to prepare a script ahead of time.
The specialized recruiters at PrideStaff Modesto will help you improve your career opportunities and find great temporary or full-time positions within our broad network of clients. Our goal is to help you to not just search, but succeed. To learn more, read our related posts or contact us today.
