You found your dream job, had a strong interview and your skills are a good match for the position. What next? Ideally, a strong finish. Take these steps to stand apart from other candidates who also want the position.
Follow Up Quickly
Make sure you have the interviewer’s contact information – ideally both email and mailing addresses. Shortly after your meeting, send an email to express appreciation for the interviewer’s time. Follow this with a handwritten note that reinforces your interest in the role and your confidence in your ability to perform well in the position.
Send References
Forward contact information for at least two people who know your professional strengths. Make sure these references can speak specifically about your abilities, attitudes and experience in a role similar to the one you’re pursuing. Prior supervisors are best. Don’t send friends or family members as references unless you’ve worked closely with them.
Make a Follow-up Call
Make a polite phone call or leave a voicemail message after hours for the interviewer. This will set you apart from other candidates, even if they also sent thank you messages by email or snail mail.
If you are not chosen for the role, thank the interviewer for the opportunity and ask him or her to keep you in mind for other positions. Ask if you can follow up in the future, and if the answer is “yes,” find out how often they’d like to hear from you. Don’t be afraid to ask if they know of similar opportunities with other companies. If you were a strong candidate for their position, they may personally refer you to a colleague or friend.
You’d be surprised how many job seekers NEVER follow-up after an interview. Follow these simple suggestions to rise to the top of the “must hire” list.