8 THINGS TO DO AFTER EVERY JOB INTERVIEW
By Traci Cetraro, President of ConnectPoint Search Group
After a virtual job interview, you may be taken in many directions as many of us are working from home. Thus, after every job interview it is important to stop and slow down for just a few minutes and take inventory of the following:
1 | RECAP
Do you understand the position as it was explained? It is always good to do a recap of the position for yourself. Write down “Key Responsibilities” on the right side of a page and then on the left side, write out how your background fits, and any similar accomplishments you have completed in your current role.
2 | CAN I DO THIS JOB?
Do you feel you can do the job described? Be honest here. If you can do the position stated, you should be able to write down the reasons why this is a good fit for you. If you feel you cannot do the position, also state why and then review your answer. Make sure if the position is a bit of a reach that you don’t let nerves get the better of you.
3 | WHAT DO I BRING TO THIS POSITION?
What you feel are the top 3 things you feel you can bring to this position? If you are working with a recruiter, these are great items to bring up because they will help the recruiter represent you to their client. These answers will highlight your strengths and what you feel you can achieve if you are offered this position.
4| WHY DO I WANT THIS JOB?
What are the top 3 reasons you want to pursue this position? Ask yourself if you want this job and then back it up with the reasons why. Is it a good opportunity for you in your career? Is the company doing things that your company is not? Is the company a bigger company giving you more exposure? Is the company smaller, allowing you to have more responsibility?
5 | WHY WOULDN’T I WANT THIS JOB?
It is always important to be ‘real’ with yourself. Is there a reason you would not pursue this position? This is one of my favorite questions to have the candidates answer. If the answer is money or fear, I wonder if they interviewed for the position for the right reasons. Now I am not saying money isn’t important, but if you are excited about what the company is doing and the leadership currently in place, most times money will find a way to work out. And, if this is a step up for you, don’t let fear stand in your way especially if you have answered question 3 confidently.
6 | DO I LIKE THE PEOPLE AND COMPANY VALUES?
Did you like the person you would report to? It is important to think about who you will be reporting to. If you do not respect the person, it will never work. If you think you cannot work with their personality, it will never work out long term. Make sure you make the determination if you like and can work for this person.
7 | END OF THE INTERVIEW
What were the last words spoken in the interview and by whom? It is good to review the end of an interview. The more you interview in the span of your career the more you learn about people and how they respond to you. You will begin to identify what works for you in closing an interview and what does not.
8 | CONTACT INFORMATION AND THANK YOU
Did you remember to get business cards and send a thank you note? Thank you notes or emails are still an important part of the hiring process. In composing your note, utilize some of the above information to not only showcase your expertise but also to articulate your interest!
Conclusion
As I mentioned in the beginning, it is smart to stop and do this right after a job interview while every conversation is sharp in your mind. We tend to forget some of the details as time goes on. It will also help you if you receive multiple offers to go through your notes to make the best decision for yourself and your family.
Find out more about Traci Cetraro here: Meet CPSG
