Keep in touch after the interview is over.
In a competitive job market, it is important to take no chances with every opportunity presented you. Landing an interview is just the first step. After you've met a company's representatives and made your best impression, let them know you are interested in the job and are willing to go the extra mile to get it. Follow-up can be as essential as dressing well for the interview. It shows you're serious and would make a great employee.
Instructions
1. Ask what the time line is for the hiring process to be complete. This should be done at the end of the interview. Specifically, ask when you can expect to hear about the position. Make note of this time line when you get home, and write the date on your calendar.
2. Write a thank you note immediately after the interview. If you have clean, professional handwriting, you can drop a simple card off at the company office, addressed to your main contact for the position or the person who interviewed you. Alternatively, send a quick email of thanks. An email should simply express your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. If you wish, you can also provide a one- or two-sentence summary of how your qualifications fit the position.
3. Call your contact if you have not heard by the time she had indicated you would. Note the date on your calendar, and wait a few days after that date before calling. If she has not indicated when you would hear, wait a week after the interview before calling. You can send a brief email instead of calling. The email should simply ask for any updates about the position and also thank the individual for considering you. Be polite and professional at all times.
4. Let it go if you do not hear back after your initial thank you note and follow-up inquiry. If you are still in contention for the job, you do not want to come across as annoying or desperate. Repeated follow-ups leave this impression. If you are no longer a candidate, it is possible you might not hear back at all. If you are presented with an offer several weeks after an interview, you can then weigh your options about how you feel about the company and your employment situation before accepting or declining the offer.
