Mastering the Post-Interview Follow-Up

In the world of job interviews, it's all too common for candidates to put their best foot forward during the actual interview and then walk away without giving proper attention to what comes next.

Yet, this simple oversight can make all the difference between a friendly conversation and an interview that translates into an actual job offer.

The power of post-interview follow-up cannot be underestimated, and in this article, I'll guide you through the crucial steps to ensure you leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of success.

Before You Bid Farewell

As the interview concludes and you exchange handshakes with the interviewers, don't make the mistake of assuming your work is done. There are a few key actions you need to take before you leave the room:

1. Collect Contact Information: If you haven't already received business cards or their LinkedIn info, make sure to ask for contact information. This allows you to initiate follow-up conversations.
2. Identify Your Points of Contact: Inquire about whom you should reach out to for follow-up communications. Knowing the right person to contact shows your proactive approach.
3. Clarify the Decision Timeline: Find out how long the decision-making process is expected to take. This information will help you plan your follow-up strategy accordingly.

Capturing the Moment

On your way home from the interview, take some time for reflection. Sit down in a coffee shop, gather your thoughts, and start jotting down key notes from the interview. Writing by hand is important, as it helps solidify your memory and connection to the experience.

Reflect on:

• Your performance: What went well and what might have raised concerns.
• Their responses to your questions: Capture these while they're fresh in your mind.
• Discussion topics: Note any shared interests or memorable moments, like a casual chat about last night's Yankees game, TV show, whatever.
• Office environment: Record observations about the workspace and the overall atmosphere.

This information will not only serve you in potential future interviews but also assist you in deciding if the company aligns with your values and preferences.

The Power of Prompt Follow-Up

The same day or early the next morning, compose personalized emails for each interviewer.

Express your gratitude for their time, remind them of a specific topic you discussed, and highlight two to three key skills or traits that make you a perfect fit for the role. Furthermore, include a call to action to keep the conversation going.

For example:

"Hello [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for sharing your time with me during our meeting yesterday. I thoroughly enjoyed our discussion on [specific topic (Yankees, TV show, skiing etc)]. After reflecting on our conversation, I'm confident that my ability to [highlight skills/traits] would be valuable to your team's success.

Looking forward to the next steps, [Your Name]"

Additionally, send personalized LinkedIn invitations with a brief message expressing your appreciation for their time, their expertise within their industry, and your interest in connecting further. This showcases your enthusiasm and maintains an open line of communication.

Managing the Waiting Game

The period after the interview can be nerve-wracking as you await a response. Remember that hiring decisions often take longer than anticipated, and delays are rarely a reflection of your performance. Instead of appearing overly eager, opt for a subtle approach to follow-up.

Instead of a straightforward "checking in" email, reference a point made during the interview or ask for further insights on a topic of discussion. This demonstrates your continued interest while avoiding the appearance of desperation.

Another favorite of mine is to reach out with a message like this:

"Hello [Interviewer's Name],

I read an article over the weekend highlighting the increased use of [their company's product or service] in [location]. I thought of what we discussed during my interview, and I have a recommendation for a strategy to help boost sales even further. Let's discuss when you have a moment in the next day or two.

All the best, [your name]"

In the unfortunate event that you don't receive an offer, maintain your professionalism. Send a follow-up note expressing your ongoing interest and willingness to stay connected. Offer assistance in any way you can, such as introducing them to relevant contacts in your network.

The Path to Success

By mastering the art of post-interview follow-up, you're not only displaying your confidence and knowledge but also creating demand for your skills and expertise. Instead of desperately chasing opportunities, you'll find yourself in a position where employers are eager to have you on their team.

Remember, it's not about constantly following up but about engaging in meaningful conversations that showcase your value. Embrace this strategy and watch how it transforms your interview outcomes.

Go get 'em!

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30 Seconds with Mark

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All of our small wins pave the road to our big goals, so don’t forget to take note of them and realize how much progress you are making.

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WIN AGAIN! - The Job Search Playbook

WIN AGAIN! The Job Search Playbook , is filled with over 150 pages of my proven WIN AGAIN methodology, where?you’ll?discover how to define your true identity?outside of being an athlete,?plan your path towards an?ideal job and business?and work towards it.?You’ll turn strangers into allies and?grow your network as you position yourself for meetings and interviews, negotiate offers, and anticipate your prospective client's or employer’s needs.

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ABOUT ME

Combining my passion for sports and a desire to help others succeed, I founded Win Again, where current and former athletes can discover their identity beyond sports, develop the structure needed to succeed again, and receive the tips, strategies and actionable advice that allows them to WIN AGAIN and be elite in their next great career. Over the past 20 years as a business advisor and career coach, I have guided athletes and executives, holding them accountable during their transition.

The Win Again Clubroom events, "Make Your Mark" podcasts, and MYM Live webinars highlight athletes who are making a positive impact post-playing career, and my book “Win Again! ” is a job search playbook for athletes, equipping them with strategies needed to land their ideal job or boost their entrepreneurial ventures.

As a graduate of Colgate University and a longtime Manhattan resident with my wife, kids, and Duke, I enjoy playing ice hockey, softball and golf, along with the guitar and piano.

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