You just finished an interview. Hopefully, everything went well. Now what?
Don’t go home and wait around for a phone call. In many cases, following up can make a difference. Here’s how to impress your potential employer after the interview is over.
Say Thank You
This task requires time and thought, so many job hunters skip it. Use their inaction to your advantage. Within four to 24 hours send an email to everyone on the interview committee. (If you don’t have contact information, the receptionist or HR department can help you out.) Begin by thanking everyone for their time. Next, highlight two to three key traits that make you a great match for the position. End by expressing your enthusiasm and your willingness to provide any other information. Write a unique note for each person. Try to customize your message based on a question they asked or a conversation you had. Finally, keep your letters short. Depending on the length of the interview, one to three paragraphs is fine.
In addition, you may decide to send a handwritten note or make a thank-you phone call. If the job involves lots of person-to-person conversations, a phone call is a wonderful way to highlight your communication skills. Start the call with your name, the position for which you applied and the date of the interview. This gives the other person a chance to remember who you are.
Don’t Overdo It
Calling the company ten times a week to find out if you got the job is a bad idea. But, disappearing can hurt your chances too. There is a fine line between being eager and being overeager. A good policy is to send thank-you emails and, if you wish, either a handwritten letter or a phone call. Then, hold off until the established deadline (plus a few days). If you don’t have a timeframe, wait about two weeks.
If You Haven’t Heard Anything, Check-In
Although no news is usually bad news when is comes to interviews, don’t give up just because the deadline passed. An important project, a busy season or vacation time may have delayed the process. It is perfectly acceptable for you to ask about your status. Frame your request as, “I’m writing/calling to check in,” rather than “Did I get the job?” In a short paragraph, express your gratitude for the opportunity and your ongoing interest in the position. Close with a statement such as, “Please let me know if you need anything else.” In the best case, this reminds the interviewer (who is behind on hiring) what a great candidate you are. In the worst case, you can focus on moving forward rather than wondering what might happen.
Are You Looking for a Job in Kenosha, Wisconsin?
At Halpin Staffing, we place accountants, engineers, industrial workers and other professionals with leading local and national companies. Let our expert recruiters help you find the right position faster. Browse our available openings and start planning for your next interview today!