The interview is over and you’re now back at home. You thought it went reasonably well, you liked the sound of the job and the company and you really want to get your name into the frame; but what can you do? The decision about which candidate is going to get the job offer is all in the hands of the Gods, isn’t it?
Well, not entirely, and there are things you can do to improve your chances – even now.
Have you considered a follow-up?
Let’s begin by making it clear what a follow-up isn’t. It isn’t a daily / weekly / regular phone call to the company asking them if they’re going to offer the job to you. You will just be regarded as a nuisance and you will instantaneously wreck any chance you do have. No, that is NOT the answer.
What is, then?
Write a ‘thank you’ email
If no more than a few days have elapsed since the interview, send a brief email along the lines of:
“Thank you for seeing me yesterday. I found the interview a most constructive and positive experience and it has strengthened my wish to be associated with your organisation.
I look forward to hearing from you.”
It will be appreciated – partly because it makes the interviewer look good to their boss!
Express continued interest
If more than a couple of days have gone by then it is really too late to email the ‘thank you’ letter. You can, however, show how much you want the job by sending the following:
“Further to my interview on <insert date>, I would like to confirm my continued interest in your vacancy and still hope to hear favourably from you in this respect.”
It’s positive, it shows initiative and it reaffirms to the company that they weren’t just one of many you applied to. They are the one you want to work for. Employers love enthusiasm (or they should do if they want to stay in business).
Offer to do a day trial
We all love freebies so, if a few days have gone by and they haven’t made their minds up, why not offer to do a day’s free trial? Admittedly it might put some companies off but many will go for it. After all, they’ve found a candidate who is so keen that they’re prepared to come to work in their own time. Not only that, from an employer’s point of view, it gives them an opportunity to see how you will interact with other members of staff.
This option should probably not be your first choice but if:
- The company hasn’t filled the vacancy within a couple of weeks
- You need to find work urgently
- You really, really, really want this job
… then it is definitely worth a try.
Remember, there is nothing wrong with demonstrating that you are keen. What is wrong is becoming a pest or appearing desperate.
Good luck with your follow-ups.
