We all learned Friday that job growth is not where we want it to be yet…at least not in the private sector. So there are still lots of people interviewing, trying to “get on the right bus”. I saw a blog called “Don’t Wait by the Phone” and it got me thinking, and commenting, so let’s go!
1. Write the thank you note. Write a note as soon as possible. What’s important is to write a note that stands out, and is engaging. I’ve seen (and received) too many notes that look like they came from a Microsoft word template. Make yours stand out by showing you understand what the priorities of the job are. Include a comment that integrates your skills and experience with what they’re looking for in the ideal candidate. [Hint: Always ask, what the key priorities of the job are, or what they are looking for in the ideal candidate.]
2. Self-assess the interview. While it’s fresh in your mind, evaluate your interview performance. No, I don’t mean “beat yourself up”, but I’ve found there’s always a thing or two that I think of and could have done differently. When I was interviewing for CFO jobs, my interview skills always improved as I interviewed more. I’d think of more examples of experiences that would highlight my skills, or questions I’d want to ask so I could evaluate the opportunity better.
3. Follow up with the person who scheduled the interview. Whether it’s a recruiter, a friend/networking contact, or HR, reach out and thank them for the opportunity to interview. Give them your assessment of how the interview went, your interest, and if appropriate, ask them about next steps.
4. Keep looking for/scheduling more interviews. No matter how well the interview went, keep looking for more opportunities. The goal is to have choices and options and not to put all your eggs in one basket. And I find candidates interview better when they fell confident about their “interview pipeline”. These are tough times, but don’t let the interviewers know it. Be cool and confident.

Remember, nobody bats 1,000. Set the right expectations for yourself. Do your best, learn from the interviews, and keep looking for that right opportunity. A positive attitude goes a long, long way.