Workzone: That post-interview nudge
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Let's say you just aced an important job interview. You're feeling pretty good. The hard part is over.
All that's left to do is relax and wait for a fabulous offer.
If you really want the job, however, after an interview is no time to slack off, says career coach Ford Myers.
Instead of just sitting around waiting, there are steps you should be taking to help nudge the employer toward hiring you, he said.
Most people "put all their time and attention into just getting the interview but don't think about strategies after the interview," said Mr. Myers, president of Career Potential near Philadelphia and author of "Get the Job You Want, Even When No One's Hiring."
"The first thing is to walk out of the interview with specific planned next steps," he said.
You should be certain about the time frame for when the employer expects to make a decision, when and how you'll be in contact again, and who contacts whom, Mr. Myers said. Those are all things you should get straight before leaving the interview.
Next, you should quickly follow up in a way that is compelling and distinguishes you from the other candidates by tying your strengths and experience to the employer's needs, problems and challenges.
Simply writing a letter saying, "Enjoyed meeting you, thank you," is not enough, he said.
For example, if during the interview you learn that the company plans to open locations overseas, your letter should reinforce your experience in international markets.
To help make those connections, it's essential to take notes during every interview, Mr. Myers said.
"No employer will take you seriously unless you are taking notes," he said.
Since nearly all jobs will require multiple interviews, you should use each encounter as a chance to sell yourself.
"You have to consistently be punctual, organized, persistent and keep track of who you talked to," Mr. Myers said. "You might be going through the same experience with three companies. It's a lot to keep track of."
You should also ask any contacts that you might have to put in a good word for you. But be careful not to overdo it with a barrage of endorsements, he said.
Also be careful not to act desperate.
"It's a horrible thing to do. It doesn't work," Mr. Myers said.
If you don't get an offer, take the rejection gracefully. At that point, you won't be able to reverse the decision.
"Say thank you for considering me as a candidate. While I'm disappointed, I really hope you will keep me in mind for future opportunities."
Mr. Myers suggests dropping a note to the employer every couple of months reinforcing your interest for as long as you are available for the job.
Acting professional could set you up for future success, he said.
"A very high percentage of selected candidates don't work out. If you were the only person who was smart and professional, guess who the first person is they call after the first person gets the boot? It's going to be you.
"That's called turning defeat into victory."
First Published August 21, 2011 12:00 am
