Interviewing – Part IV – Follow-up

 

Follow-Up

 

The interview is not over once your leave the employers building.  You know have a decision to make.

 

If you did not like the interview, the organization, the position or other factor and do not want to proceed with the selection process, your decision is easy.  A quick note via snail mail and/or email directly to the person(s) who interviewed you will suffice. 

 

“Thank you for your time.  I very much appreciate being considered for this opportunity.  However, I must decline an offer to proceed with the interview and selection process.

I wish you the best of luck is finding the right person for this great opportunity.”

 

If you decide that you are excited about this job opportunity and very much want to continue the selection process, your snail mail note and/or email to each person who interviewed you may look like this.

 

“Thank you for your time today.  I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity and the skills and experience that I may bring to your dynamic organization.  The feeling was very positive and energetic.  I would like to contribute to the further success of your (company or agency) and look forward to our next communication. I am ready to start work!”

 

If you do not receive a written or verbal response within 2-3 days it is very appropriate to follow your written ‘thank you’ with a telephone call.

 

“I am calling for (Name of highest ranking interviewer).  I would like to thank you once again for taking the time to meet with me and am curious about my status for this position.  Do you have a decision date in mind? Do you need more information from me?”

 

References

 

Make sure you have provided 3-4 references of individuals who can speak to your technical capabilities, your work ethic, your ability to work with others in a team environment, and your wonderful personality. 

“I would like to list you as one of my references for employment.  Would you be able to provide accurate and positive comments relating to my skills and work ethic?  If so, would you be willing to be listed as a reference when asked for by a prospective employer?”

 

You should make contact with your references as you interview as a courtesy to warn them of any call they may receive from specific employers.

 

Some persons you would like to use as references may be restricted by corporate policy that they may only provide confirmation of employment and dates of employment with no comment about your skills and abilities.  If this is the case, you should advise the prospective employer of this situation.  Leaving out an important reference may be a negative and an explanation should be provided.

 

If you anticipate a luke-warm or negative comment from one of your former supervisors you may want to discuss the specific comments that he or she will make when called.