If you think your work is done once your interview is over, think again. Here at Masiello Employment, we know that the steps you take after your interview are just as important as all those leading up to it. Here’s our guide to your post-interview performance.
- Send a Thank You note. Whether it’s a hand-written letter or an email, this note should be sent within 24-hours of the interview. In either case, make it personal by naming people you interviewed with, expressing your interest in the position, and detailing your feelings for the company; if necessary, expand upon any of the answers you gave during the interview and present additional relevant details about your background. To really shine, reference an article about a topic discussed during the interview (if sending an email, include a link). Have a friend or family member proofread the note before you send it.
- Take notes. After the interview, write down what went well and, more importantly, what did not go well so you can hone your interview skills and increase your chances of getting a job. Talk over those elements that didn’t go well with those you trust to offer good advice (like the folks at Masiello Employment!) You can even role-play the interview process until it’s second-nature to you, and you’re comfortable answering questions completely, and asking questions that are appropriate and thoughtful.
- Educate your references. Let your references know as much as you can about the job, the company, and the hiring manager so each reference can speak about you in specifics that parallel the position.
- Tap outside resources. If you know someone who might help you get the job, don’t hesitate to ask someone to put in a good word about you with the hiring manager; if you sense any hesitation to do this, drop your request without any hard feelings.
- Be patient. It may take many weeks for the hiring manager to make up his or her mind. After sending your Thank You note, refrain from reaching out to ask about the status of the position, even if the wait is difficult. If the end-of-year holidays occur during this time, you can send a “season’s greeting” card to the hiring manager, wishing him or her the best for the upcoming year (be sure to avoid sending a religious card/message).
- Keep on your toes. Expect a call any day from the hiring manager, not with a job offer but with additional questions for you, so keep thinking about the company, the job, and your background, so you’re prepared to answer questions and to ask insightful questions as well.
- Keep at it. Even if you’re certain you’ve landed the job, don’t stop applying for other positions—it’s always a smart idea to have a Plan B.
- Be social-media savvy. The hiring manager may keep tabs on your social media accounts during the post-interview phase, so be sure any pictures or postings present you in your best, neutral light—avoiding topics like politics and religion.
If you don’t get the job, your work still isn’t over. Accept the bad news with grace, and thank the hiring manager for his or her time and for considering you for the job—you never know what the future holds, and your positive response could give you an advantage should you apply to the company in the future. One last tip: Even if you don’t get the job, consider sending a final Thank You note, reiterating your gratefulness for being considered; again, this could help you stand out in the future.
“Post-interview performance” is just some of Masiello Employment’s insider insight. Our recruiting team is always here for a free consultation about your successful interview. Just give us a call.