So you’ve aced the interview. Unfortunately, despite your show-stopping interview skills, that’s not enough to land you your dream job.
Knowing what to do after an interview is as crucial as any other stage of getting a job. For example, a simple step is thank you notes; over 80% of employers say they are helpful, yet only 24% of applicants send them.
But to get the job you must complete 8 essential post-interview steps to put yourself ahead of other candidates. It could be the difference between becoming an employee or having your resume binned and forgotten.
Read on to learn how to complete the critical post interview steps.
1. Leave the Interview Prepared
Before leaving the interview, you need to be prepared for the next steps. At a minimum, you need to know the answers to these questions:
- What are the next stages of the recruitment process?
- What is the best way to contact you?
- When will I hear from you?
- Is there anything else you need from me?
- Do you have any further questions for me before I go?
Write these questions down, along with any questions you already have, and take them to the interview. Don’t be afraid to get your checklist out and write down the answers – it shows that you are dedicated and organized.
2. Evaluate the Interview
While it’s fresh in your mind, think about the interview. Write everything down, and we mean everything. You’ll forget it quickly. Here are some things to think about:
- What examples have you given them of skills you have?
- What haven’t you told them yet?
- What did you do well?
- What could you improve?
- What did they tell you about the role?
- What were the interviewers’ names and job roles?
- Which skills seemed most important to the interviewers?
Writing down the answers to each of these questions will help you progress through the recruitment process. You can use this information to plan for thank you notes, second interviews, and salary negotiation.
3. Send a Thank You Note
This step is essential and time-critical. The importance of follow up is unparalleled and highly valued by employers. A good thank you note will set you aside from other candidates.
You should send a thank-you note by email on the same day that you interview. Make sure you customize it to show that you have the skills they need and want the job.
If the interviewers requested them, attach any relevant supporting documents (e.g., portfolio, certificates, or references).
This is one of the most important steps after an interview so make sure you thank them and make it clear that you are the only person for the role.
4. Contact Your References
Steps 1-3 are the priority, but there are more steps to take after an interview. You should contact your references ASAP. The employer may contact them for more information and resolve any concerns they have about hiring you.
Brief your references on exactly what impression you want the employer to have of you. References are a useful way to increase your value; make sure you speak to them and thank them for a positive reference.
5. Connect on Social Media
1-2 days after the interview, you should connect with the interviewers on social media. This is an effective way of reminding them you’re still interested in the role. But make sure you stay professional.
If it’s a corporate role, stick to Linkedin. Send a tailored connection request, but don’t ask for anything from them. A simple message is acceptable; you’ve already sent a detailed thank you letter.
If the role is more creative, see which social media channels the company uses and like, follow, and request. Make sure to find a balance; don’t come across too strong, but show interest and support.
6. Prepare for the Next Stage
Start your preparation early; you’ll need to respond quickly if you’re called back for a second interview or offered a job.
To do research for second interviews, use the information you wrote down to see how you can present more information and add value to your application. Think about what’s important to them and emphasize it in your answer preparation.
To prepare for a job offer, start researching typical industry salaries. Be ready to negotiate, but arm yourself with solid evidence to back up any requests you might have.
7. Be Patient
Having followed steps 1-6, you shouldn’t be at a loss for what to do after an interview, but make sure you don’t come across like a stalker. Stick to whatever timeframes the interviewers indicated, and don’t harass them!
If they don’t get back to you after a week, you should send a follow-up email, but keep it neutral. State that you’re still interested in the role and look forward to hearing from them. Leave out any tones of annoyance or desperation.
8. Acknowledge the Response
When you hear back from the interviewer, it’s essential to acknowledge the response, no matter whether you were unsuccessful, have another interview, or the job.
If you’re offered another interview, thank them and acknowledge that you will be attending on the date offered.
If you’re offered the job, thank them, show your enthusiasm, and enquire about the next steps.
If you’re unsuccessful, thank them, ask for feedback, and wish them all the best. If you’re still interested in the company, ask whether you are welcome to apply for other roles with them in the future.
Follow These Post Interview Steps to Get the Job
If you’ve just had an interview, it’s time to get busy. To get the job, it’s critical that you handle the post interview steps in a professional way.
But here’s the good news: compared to interview preparation, these tips for after an interview will be easy.
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