Job Interview Follow-Up
by Barbara Reinhold
Question: I interviewed recently for an education and sales position. I feel that I met all their position criteria and the interview went fairly well. The interviewers said that they would notify me within four weeks one way or the other. It has been over four weeks since the interview; is it appropriate to contact them for an update, or should I continue to wait?
Answer: You -- and other folks waiting to hear after interviews -- should realize that hiring committees (or individuals, for that matter) are absolutely glacial in their speed. Always wait a week after the time they SAID they'd get back to you, and then IN YOUR MOST CHEERFUL, ACCOMMODATING TONE, call to ask about the process. Don't be whiny and don't be aggressive, or you'll be out of luck. View this as another chance to let the team know what a great, funny, agreeable addition you'd be. Since receptionists or administrative assistants will likely field the call (and they have lots of influence in who gets through to the hirers), be sure to be oozing charm when you speak with them. Now, should the worst happen and you not get the job this time, be sure to view this as a "laboratory" for your job search. Ask if you could have a brief conversation either in person or on the phone about what qualities you would need to beef up in order to be a competitive candidate for another job with them. You'd be surprised how often hirings go sour and the folks need a replacement within weeks or months. If you've gotten to know them and have shown yourself to be eager to learn and please (and someone who takes feedback well), you're just the person they'll call. But hopefully, you'll never need this advice! Good luck!
CAREER COACH
