The interview is over. You think you've “nailed it.” Now, the waiting game begins.
Too many applicants simply sit back, try not to be anxious, and worry about how and when they will receive some type of communication from the interviewer or hiring manager.
Don’t put yourself in this position. As a job candidate in a competitive market place, you need to be proactive (but not aggressive) and conduct the follow up that will keep your name in front of the hiring manager’s eyes.
There are a few things you can do to accomplish this during your waiting period.
It’s a good gesture to thank the interviewer for his/her time in meeting with you. Here are some key tips for doing this:
If you did not send a thank you email but still want to follow-up with your interviewer(s), you should still send a good, solid communication to keep yourself top-of-mind. This may occur within a few to several days after the interview. But, much of the email can contain the same information as the thank you would have:
This often happens. You may hear back from the interviewer with a simple statement that no decision has been made. In this case, a response can be very short and simple. Simply “reply” with a thank you for the update and indicate that you remain very interested in the position and are looking forward to hearing from them. Nothing more. You do not want to appear desperate.
But, know this: the fact that you heard back is a good indicator that you are still being seriously considered.
This is common. You can send one more email after waiting at least a few days. This should be really short but also indicate your continued enthusiasm for the position. Just say, “I wanted to be certain you received my earlier email and let you know that I remain interested in the position and look forward to hearing from you soon.” Do not add any more. They have received your earlier email, and your only goal is to keep your name in front of them. Again, you cannot appear desperate.
The wait can be agonizing. You really want this job. But, there is nothing to gain by communicating any further, except highlighting your desperation. What can you do to reduce the anxiety? Several things actually:
There is also follow-up that can occur even if you should be notified that you did not get the position. It is perfectly okay to send an email to ask if there was something you could have done to improve your candidacy. Many hiring managers are willing to give you feedback, so take it seriously. There may be a single skill that another candidate possessed which you do not. This is good information to have – perhaps you can find a way to develop that skill and be more attractive to the next hiring manager.
A sense of optimism can go a long way. For one thing, it promotes confidence. Attack every interview with optimism, craft the right kind of follow up, and be patient. The right job for you is out there.
About the Author: Elisa Abbot completed a degree in Computer Science. Now she’s engaged in assessing translation services for PickWriters. Elisa is thirsty for knowledge and is always on the lookout for tips to share with her readers.