Many people might think that after attending an interview, the work stops there.
But in fact, 22 per cent of hiring managers are less likely to choose a candidate if they don’t follow up the opportunity post-meeting. It can be difficult to know how to approach this situation, but a positive, proactive approach can go a long way when you want to demonstrate just how much an application means to you. While you’re waiting for an employer’s response, here’s the best way to communicate:
Send a thank you
A simple way to put your name at the top of a hiring manager’s list is to follow up with a thank you. As a candidate, you know how much time and effort it takes to search, apply and research opportunities, so think of this from an employer’s perspective. Whether it’s a letter or an e-mail, contact the person you met at interview to thank them for inviting you in, considering what you have to say and talking to you about their company. Use this note to reiterate your enthusiasm for the position, responding to points that you’ve learnt post-interview.
E-mail portfolio examples
Did you use your interview to talk about specific piece of work you’ve completed? If so, why not send these to hiring managers as a way of further demonstrating your skillset? Again, this could come in many forms, including an online portfolio – if you have one of these it’s easy to share a simple website link. Having gained an insight into the company you’re applying for, such as the main opportunities and challenges for them, use this to show that you’ve listened and that you’ve thought of new, creative ways of tackling these. Don’t be afraid to share work that you’re proud of – evidencing a great video or piece of design work will really help you to stand out from other candidates.
Ask about the hiring timeline before you leave
Before you leave your interview, use any chance to ask questions wisely. Find out details of the hiring process so that you don’t need to e-mail with unnecessary questions. As with many things, it’s important to get a balance and to know when is appropriate to contact interviewers. Make sure you have a timeline, so that you know when to expect a decision. Armed with this information, you’ll feel confident in following up with hiring managers if you still haven’t heard from them after their deadline. There may be many reasons for a delay in hiring, such as a large number of candidates, and understanding this will help you to communicate effectively.
Get a recruiter to help
Using an agency has many advantages, so make use of your recruiter. They are your most important contact, having been picked by your future employer to find the best candidates. A recruiter has inside knowledge that you don’t have access to – they know the company and the way it works inside out. When you’re unsure as to how to proceed, pick up the phone and speak to them. A good recruiter will always follow up with the company post-interview and will have their finger on the pulse having gained immediate post-interview feedback.
Stay in touch after the decision
Jobhunting can be tough, and receiving a rejection is even tougher. However, don’t see this as the end of the line. If you’ve impressed but failed to make the final cut, this is not to say that a hiring manager won’t consider you again in the future. Answer decision letters with professionalism, using this as another chance to make a connection. Why not ask managers if you can connect with them on LinkedIn, requesting that your details be kept on file for further opportunities, or inquiring about future hiring plans? You never know, this approach could really pay off.
About the author
Kate Allen is the MD of Allen Associates, one of Oxfordshire’s leading independent recruitment agencies, that specialises in Marketing, Finance, PA/Admin and HR roles. They also have an office in London, specialising in Marketing, HR and PA/Admin roles.
Allen Associates also offer guides to businesses, containing top tips to help your recruitment and hiring process. They also offer guides to candidates, to help then with their job hunt.
