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4.8 What to do after the Interview

• You didn't get a call back.
• You got an offer!
• You've got the job! Now what?

It's over! You've had your interview and now you're waiting to hear how it went. What can you do in the meantime? First, write a thank-you letter to the interviewers thanking them for their time, restating your interest in the job, and subtly reminding them of your qualifications. This gives you yet another opportunity to sell yourself and make a good impression. If possible, mail it the same day as your interview.

Next, sit back and go over the interview in your mind. Consider what you feel worked and what didn't. What would you say or do differently the next time? This will help you learn from each interview experience.

If the employer is supposed to call you on a certain day, be home to take the call. If you aren't called at the specified time, make a follow-up call. If you have agreed to call the employer back, be sure to do it on the agreed-upon day.

If you did not make any arrangements, and you haven't heard from the employer in about two weeks, call to find out the status of the hiring process. If you find out you didn't get the job, you are allowed to politely ask why. "Can you tell me what would have made me a better candidate for the position?" Ask if the employer knows of any other job openings in your line of work. Always thank the employer/personnel manager for considering you. Be professional and polite. Even if you don't get this job, you never know when the employer may be hiring again.

It's not the end of the road, but just another turn in your path. Don't give up! Get going! Remember you're still on the hunt. An unsuccessful interview is a chance to learn, and will bring you that much closer to a successful one.

Here's what you can do:

• Don't give up. Keep looking. Finding a job takes time.
• Remember that applying for jobs and being interviewed are skills that improve with practice. Use your experience to improve those skills.
• Don't take it personally. Not getting a job is not necessarily a reflection on you. Many factors weigh into an employer's decision. It's like a marathon - you might have been up against a world-class runner!
• Politely ask the employer if you can discuss your interview, and how you might do better the next time.
• Review your cover letter and résumé. Polish your interview skills by practising with a friend or by getting out there and applying for more jobs.
• Keep a positive outlook. Continue to network.
• Explore other options. Don't rule out volunteering or job shadowing as a good way to make connections and get some experience in the workplace.

Congratulations! You've got a job offer! Be enthusiastic and thank the caller for the opportunity. Let them know you are looking forward to being part of their team.

The next step is to discuss the terms and conditions of the job. This may be a factor in whether or not you will accept. Confirm things like:

• When you start;
• How much your salary will be;
• What you'll be doing;
• What hours you'll be working (including shifts and overtime);
• What the benefits and vacation are (if the job's full-time);
• What health and safety considerations you should know about;
• What special equipment or clothing will you need;
• When, where, and to whom to report on your first day;
• What orientation or training will be provided;

If you have any concerns, share them with someone whose opinion you respect before committing yourself.

It's your first day on the job and your journey has just begun! This is just the first in a series of jobs that will make up your career. Remember, you're just starting out. Be prepared to do your best, and you will learn and grow in the job.

Don't let 'first day jitters' get you. Start out on the right foot:

• Be on time. That means five to ten minutes early!
• Find out who your supervisor is.
• Be polite and courteous.
• Be attentive. Watch for clues about how to act and speak appropriately.
• Find out exactly when and where you will take your breaks.
• Take only the allotted time for breaks, or a minute or two less. Don't come back a few minutes late.
• Find out where to keep your lunch and other personal items.