Make the Call
A friend recently said to me the job interview process is similar to dating. And I realized she's right: it's all about "does he/she like me?" (whether that's the interviewer or a potential suitor) and a fear of rejection. In either situation, you try not to take rejection personally, but it is personal, my friend said.
One example that fits into both situations is the dreaded "follow-up call." Do you call after a date, say you had a great time and set up the next date -- to kind of "check in" and see where things are? And similarly, should you call the recruiter after the interview to cement your interest in the position? And how often should you call? (Probably not too many times in a dating situation ... if you haven't gotten through to the person in a few phone calls, it's probably safe to say "he/she's just not that into you," in my opinion!).
But when it comes to the job interview process, many of my friends have mentioned to me they are scared to follow-up and seem too pushy. They're afraid calling may actually harm them and that they will look like a nuisance.
But Ronald M. Katz, author of Someone's Gonna Get Hired... It Might As Well Be You!, says "make the call!"
"The bottom line is, if you want the job, make the call," he writes. "Nobody likes rejection. Nobody likes making endless calls and leaving countless messages ... Recruiters are often overwhelmed with resumes, messages and calls. The more you keep calling, the more likely you are to be the one person who gets through ... Whether it's the fifth call or the ninth call, if you feel you're a viable candidate for the position, keep calling."
Have you had any good experiences with following up after a job interview? Encourage your peers by sharing them here!