The Follow Up

You’ve just finished an interview for a job you’d love to have. Now what?

1. Immediately send a thank you letter to the interviewer. This is a very effective method for expressing your gratitude and genuine interest in a position. Show your appreciation for their time and mention how much you look forward to hearing from them. Be sure to set a target date in the letter when they can expect a follow up phone call from you. Two weeks is usually an appropriate amount of time, and allows the employer to get back in touch with you earlier if they want to.

2. Develop further questions about the position and the organization. Think of additional things you would like to know about the job, such as potential for growth in the organization or continuing education. This is a great way to keep interaction going on with the interviewer, keeping you fresh in their mind when it comes time to make a decision.

3. Try to arrange a second interview. Find out if the employer is holding a second round of interviews. If so, express your interest in speaking with them again and learning more about the job opportunity. If you are called back for a second interview, try to be the first or last candidate they meet in the second round. This can help you stand out a bit more among a group where everyone is most likely being seriously considered for the job.

4. Make connections with as many people as possible. If you do make it back for a second interview, make an effort to meet others on the team. In addition to your interviewer, you might ask to meet with the peers you would be working with or the other management staff who would oversee your work. Making a good impression on more than one team member can be highly valuable when they have to make a tough decision between candidates.