You are almost there, probably already imagining your first day at your dream job. After completing your job application process successfully and showing your best in the job interviews you must be wondering “how do you know if you will be hired after an interview?”.
There is no sure way to know if you will be hired after an interview. Some signs such as if the interviewer asks you detailed questions about your qualifications, or if they discuss the next steps in the hiring process might be taken as strong indicators that may suggest that you are being strongly considered for the position. Don’t forget though over 200 hundred applications were received for that job offer, even if you are in the top 10 who get the interview, you still need to be the number 1 to get the role. That’s why even if your interview went amazing never assume you know how things are going to work out in the end. What you can do though is follow up after a job interview to remind yourself as well as your motivation to work in the company
Is it OK to follow up after the job interview?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to follow up after a job interview. In fact, it is often appreciated by recruiters, as it shows your continued interest in the position.
4 ways to follow up after an interview to stand out
1. Express Gratitude to the Interviewer
Sending a thank-you note to the interviewer post a job interview is a thoughtful gesture. It demonstrates appreciation for their time and reinforces your keen interest in the position. To expedite the response time and serve as a helpful reminder, consider replying on the same email chain. The optimal timeframe for a follow-up email to a recruiter is generally within 24 hours after the interview.
Crafting a Follow-up Email to a Recruiter
Initiate your email with a sincere expression of gratitude. Immediately specify the position for which you interviewed, thanking the recruiter for their time and reiterating your enthusiasm for the role and the company. If certain aspects were not covered in the interview, articulate why you believe you would be a strong fit and a valuable asset to the company, setting yourself apart from other candidates. Encourage the recruiter to reach out with any additional queries to address potential doubts between interviews.
Post-Interview Steps
Following the interview, the customary next step is to await a response from the employer. If a job offer is extended, the employer typically contacts you to discuss details. In the event you are not selected for the position, the employer may or may not provide feedback on the decision.
Timeline for Hearing Back
The timeframe for receiving post-interview communication varies among employers. Some may reach out within a few days, while others may take weeks or even months. If a reasonable amount of time has passed without any communication, it is generally acceptable to follow up with the employer to inquire about the status of the hiring decision.
2. Ensure to check in with the employer regarding the status of the hiring decision.
During your interview with the hiring manager, did you inquire about the next steps in the job application process? Was a specific date provided for receiving feedback? Whether you lack answers to these questions or the deadlines have already passed, it's crucial to follow up after the main interview but before the hiring decision.
In your follow-up communication, reiterate the position you are in within the hiring process. Briefly highlight why you believe your interviews were successful and express your ongoing genuine interest in both the company and the role. Politely inquire about the possibility of additional stages in the process and request information on the expected timeline for filling the position. This will provide clarity on your situation and demonstrate your proactive approach.
3. Update your recruiter with any changes
Ensuring effective communication throughout the recruitment process is essential, and one aspect that often slips our minds is the importance of proactive follow-ups. While we often anticipate being continuously informed by others, it's easy to overlook our own responsibility in the exchange. Capitalizing on pivotal moments of change on your end presents a valuable opportunity to engage with your recruiter, gaining insights into the decision-making process or bringing the recruitment to a close.
A suitable occasion to update your recruiter arises when you either intend to accept an alternative offer or have already done so. Opting for transparency over ambiguity is crucial; concluding your involvement in the recruitment process gracefully is a gesture that not only preserves professional relationships but also underscores your commitment to open communication.
If you are contemplating the organization for future career endeavors, it is imperative to conclude your engagement on positive terms. While parting ways may evoke disappointment, a forthright communication style is far more appreciated than leaving without a trace. Remember, expressing your decision, whether positive or otherwise, is integral to fostering respect and maintaining a professional rapport.
Also, if you get another job offer but really want to work for the company you're in the recruiting process with, it's a good idea to talk to your recruiter. Let them know you're in a bit of a time crunch with your job situation, and express that you really like their company. This can speed up their decision-making process. By politely sharing your eagerness to hear from them before making a final decision, you show that you're professional and increase the chances of getting a quicker response.
4. Maintain a Positive Connection with your Network
Even if your application outshined the competition, your interview went exceptionally well, and you diligently followed up with your point of contact throughout the process, receiving a job offer is not guaranteed. In such situations, consider the following steps to turn this experience into a positive opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Firstly, congratulate yourself. Your outstanding performance likely left a lasting impression on the company, and the skills you acquired during the process will undoubtedly contribute to your success in future endeavors. While rejections are never easy to accept, focusing on the positive aspects of your experience is crucial.
As you wrap up this chapter, write a thoughtful final follow-up email to express gratitude to your recruiter for their time and consideration. Remain open to future opportunities within the company and, importantly, seek constructive feedback on your hiring process. Politely inquire about the factors that led you to the final stage and understand the key reasons behind not receiving the offer. Ensure that your email maintains a tone of genuine curiosity and a commitment to personal and professional development.
Last but not least, don’t forget to connect with your interviewers on LinkedIn. Establishing and nurturing these connections could present you withunforeseen career opportunities that might align with your aspirations. Stay optimistic, continue to build bridges, and remember that each experience, even a rejection, is a stepping stone toward your ultimate success.
