You’ve just had a job interview with a recruitment agency or executive search consultant. It may be only the first of several interviews you need to have before you land that new job. But what do you do next?
According to Maria Forrest, research manager with an executive search firm, it’s important to follow-up with the interviewer, otherwise you can be forgotten. In a competitive job market, you should never overlook something as simple as sending a thank you e-mail or picking up the phone to thank the person who gave you a chance to interview. Here’s what you should do after your first interview wraps up.
1. Say thank you: Send a thank you e-mail to the interviewer(s). This allows you to say something that you might have forgotten to mention in the interview.
2. List pros and cons: Re-read any notes you have taken about the job or any research you’ve done. Evaluate the pros and cons of the position and make a list of all the areas you know you would excel at – and also to make sure you want the job. Use this information when you’re – hopefully – interviewed again. Express with specific examples how you would be the perfect candidate.
3. Keep calling: Keep the momentum rolling. Many applicants don’t want to bother the interviewer. Job seekers claim that they already know that you’re interested in the position so they wait to hear back – WRONG! It’s true they are busy so make it your job to stay in touch by checking in with the interviewer every 7-10 working days. It may even be a shorter time frame if they told you during the interview that they are hoping to make a “quick decision”. Send an additional e-mail and/or voicemail thanking the interviewer again and expressing your interest in the position. At the same time, inquire about the status of the position.
4. Persevere don’t push: It’s important to get the balance right. Perseverance is the name of the game, but being too pushy can actually be detrimental to your future chances. You can initiate the dialogue, but be polite and professional by asking what the next steps are for the position, how the selection process is going and when can you expect to hear something.
5. Leave on good terms: If you receive a phone call or e-mail stating that you were not selected for a further interview, don’t fret. Keep your composure and thank the interviewer again. Leaving on a positive note will help you depart on good terms. You never know if that company may be hiring again. If you leave on a sour note, you’ll never receive an interview there again. Recruitment agencies and executive search firms keep extensive databases and write file notes of every interaction you have with them. If you’re rude to them, it will be noted and it will count against you next time.
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