Follow – Up

After the Job Interview

So you’ve had the job interview. Now all you have to do is sit back and wait for the phone call, right? Wrong. You still have a lot of work to do in order to make a good impression and get that job.

During the interview, get the correct names and titles of everyone you talked to. Try to pick up their business card. It’s ok – in fact, a normal part of doing business — to ask for it. Within two working days after the interview, write thank you notes to everyone who interviewed you, even if you don’t think you’ll get the job – or aren’t interested. The impression you make with this tiny bit of courtesy will go a long way. First, you’ll bring yourself to the top of your potential employer’s mind. Second, everyone likes working with someone who shows courtesy. It’s not uncommon for employees to learn later that what turned the tide of their job application was the thank you note they sent.

Your thank you note should remind the people you spoke to why you’re the best candidate for the job, but don’t overdo it. You want to sound enthusiastic, but not desperate. Make sure names and titles are correct and the rest of the letter is spelled correctly, as well.

Just before the end of the interview, get into networking mode. Ask if there’s anyone else in the field you can talk to about a possible job. Get names and addresses/phone numbers and follow up on these as soon as possible.

At the end of the interview a when a decision will be made and how you’ll be notified. With a week to ten days, make a follow-up phone call to inquire about the job. Keep the call upbeat and continue to sell yourself. If the employer asked you to follow-up, make sure you do. Don’t drop the ball. On the other hand, be patient. The employer may have a lengthy hiring process.

Let your references know that the employer may be calling them.

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Even if you’re sure you’ll get the job, continue to look around. Follow up the referrals you were given. After all, you might find something better or be able to use the other offer as leverage when you’re bargaining.

If you don’t get a job offer, stay positive. Don’t get discouraged. This isn’t the only job out there, and every interview you have will make you better at job hunting. Keep the relationship pleasant and leave the potential employer with a good feeling about you. This job may not have panned out for you, but another position may come up that you’re suitable for. It’s not uncommon for candidates who made a good impression to be considered first for other positions that come up. After all, they already know you, so hiring you will save them a lot of time.