As I talked to millennials and even older or mature professionals, I realized that there are practices and habits that people have which may keep them from getting a job during and after an interview. We’ve reviewed some of the mistakes applicants make before and during the interview in the previous article. The post interview is as important as the pre-interview. This is when a small faux pas can cost you the job in favor of another applicant.
Before we dive into what to do after the interview, consider studying the company’s culture. Is this a place where you would want to spend 8 hours of your precious time? Most people spend much of their day with colleagues, make sure your potential future coworkers are people you would enjoy creating a community with. Of course, it is impossible to know your coworkers before you meet them; but you do have a smart option which would make your impression on your recruiter or future managers impossible to ignore. If you were to get invited for a second interview, chances are you are one of the preferred candidates. During the conversation, politely ask if it would be ok to briefly discuss the day to day of the role with a coworker you would work with directly. Be careful though, as to not offend the manager hiring for the position. If done right, such a move will set you apart from your competitors, the other candidates.
It is recommended to always send a follow up email to the person(s) who conducted the interview. However, preparing that email prior to the interview and sending it right when you’re back in your car, sitting in the parking lot is not appropriate. In fact, it is borderline weird. A proper follow up email should include a recap of the notes you’ve taken during the interview and an emphasis on the qualities you’ll bring in the role you’ve applied for. Hint: you should be taking some notes during the discussion with your interviewer.
Recently, a candidate who was interviewed by one of my colleagues contacted the recruiter several times and then my coworker, asking if a decision has been made regarding the role. His demeanor was aggressive and desperate. You can imagine that he did not get an offer. Trust me, when the decision is made, you’ll know. Being pushy will not get you the job. By the way, reserve your follow up email for the evening of the day of your interview or the next morning.
In the corporate world, higher positions usually require several interviews with diverse people in a department or a company. When you receive an invitation for a second interview, good news, you’re still in the race. For every step of the process, be prepared. This second or third interview may be more technical, and you may have to show your skills. If you are working with a recruiter, this might be a good time to get some advice.
During the interview process, many job applicants tend to stop applying for other jobs once a company reaches out to them. This is a mistake. Until a final offer is made, continue networking and applying for jobs. The more practice you get, the sharper your interviewing skills become. The other benefit is that you may receive several offers at once. In that position, you’re able to negotiate a more competitive salary.
Whether you get the job or not, do not burn any bridges connecting you to recruiters. In fact, create a connection through LinkedIn and stay in touch. In today’s professional environment, recruiters count heavily on their network when filling positions and having that connection is a potential advantage for you. I suggest establishing a durable connection even when you have landed a job.
You now have the tools necessary to ace your next interview process. Although each job and each company is different, the tips that I presented here will help you make an attractive impression. Remember to start building your network today by establishing a professional, well-designed LinkedIn profile.
Good luck!
Money-Smart Millennials 
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