After The Job Interview

            After the interview or interviews are over you don’t want to blow it. So, what do you actually need to do after the interview or interviews?

            Many job candidates just sit back and wait for a telephone call, e-mail or a letter. If you are not interested in the position, that may be a good approach. But, when you really want a job, taking a more active role may make the difference in getting it or not.  In a time of lost etiquette by both employers and job seekers, it can really give you an edge when there is a close decision between you and another candidate.

            There are usually three ways to respond. These are the telephone, e-mail or by letter. Circumstances may make a difference in which one you select, but the letter, if time permits, normally provides the biggest bang for the buck.

            If the hiring manager or interviewers are interviewing over several days, sending a letter may be an appropriate method. That is because there is time for the mail to get to the right person. This is also a good choice when there is more than one person you wish to contact.

            Sending an e-mail is appropriate if you have already communicated in this way. If you have not, make sure the person you are communicating with likes this method. Some people prefer e-mail to any other type of communication. But, since hiring managers and executives receive so many e-mails, they may pay it little notice or even delete it before reading.

            A telephone call can be an effective way if the hiring manager does not mind taking the call. Phone calls help you get across your message because you get to use your personality. You can also feel the hiring manager out to some degree. In some cases you can invite additional questions or answer any questions left unanswered at the interview.

            With a call you can send a letter or e-mail to reinforce your message.

            Doing a follow-up using any of the methods allows you to add anything you may have left out at the interview. Sometimes during an interview a candidate may be side tracked due to the questioning and lose focus. Now you have a second chance.

You probably have a better understanding of the job than before the interview. Tie together your skills and qualifications to the job duties. Don’t get too detailed on the telephone unless it is called for. Detail is better in a letter.

Mention some of the points the hiring manager or other interviewers asked. Let them know you were listening.

Bring up good points about the employer. There may be things you learned since the interview or discovered during it.

Try and recap everything. Let them know why you are an excellent pick. However, don’t lay it on too thick. Be subtle as much as possible. Don’t sound like you are bragging.

Some points to make include:

·        If you met several people, use their names.

·        Indicate a readiness to produce.

·        Show your enthusiasm for the position and the employer.

·        Don’t sound desperate. Keep it professional.

·        Be positive. Let them know you want the job.

Remember that fields differ. Some things are appropriate in some industries and not in others. Take a look at your situation and devise an appropriate response.