Over the past 3 weeks we have shared with you information regarding job interviews. This week marks our final week on the issue. If you missed the first 3 weeks, please go back to our previous posts and check them out!
Analyze the interview
Although it is not recommended that you take notes during the interview, it may be helpful for you to do so immediately afterwards. How did it go? What did you learn? What was your impression of the organization, the interviewer, and other people you may have met? It is a good idea to keep some kind of written record of each interview you have that includes any information you believe to be important.
Write a thank you note
This is an extremely important aspect of interviewing and one in which is most often neglected. You can get an edge simply by being one who always sends a note within forty-eight hours to thank the interviewer and stress points in your background that qualify you for the position. If additional information or materials were requested, verify that it is being forwarded. Notes may be typed or hand written. You will have to determine which form is most appropriate for each interview.
When appropriate, follow up
If you are told you will hear about a position by a specific date but do not, call the organization and ask about the current status of your candidacy.
Job Offer
If an offer is extended verbally, ask for it and the details in writing, including the job title, starting date, salary, location and any other important information. If anything appears vague, ask for clarification before accepting the offer.
• Make your acceptance in writing, restating the important details
• If you are going to reject the offer, do so in writing as soon as possible
• Indicate appreciation for their confidence in you. Do not burn any bridges!
• If you need more time to consider the offer, ask for an extension of the deadline and tell them why.
Coping with Rejection
Being rejected by potential employers is an inevitable part of every job search. This doesn’t mean that it will be easy to accept or that you have to like it. No one likes to feel unwanted. This is as true in the job search as in any other aspect of life. Keep in mind two things that may help you handle negative feedback in a positive way.
First, you will hear “no” many more times than “yes.” This is a fact of the job search and realizing this should help you put an employer’s “no” into proper perspective. Second, don’t just accept an employer’s negative response without looking at the reasons. Try to determine why you were turned down. Was there a poor fit between the position and your background? Did you fail to present yourself as a strong candidate in your cover letter and résumé or in the interview? You may be able to see the answers to these questions yourself, but it is also a good idea to seek guidance and input from Career Services staff or from the interviewer by asking, “How could I have presented myself better?” Accept the fact that you will be rejected more often than not, but learn from the experience to better prepare for the next interview.
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