Job Interview - Calgarypuck Forums - The Unofficial Calgary Flames Fan Community

Got Miikka? · 10-17-2008, 01:26 PM

So, I had a job interview and I wanted to consult the CP oracle, which is indeed wise in the ways of such things, on my post-interview next step. Here is my question: if one wanted to make a follow-up communication for an interview, what is currently the most effective means of doing so? Some of the older material I have read suggests a follow-up letter, but I don't think that is appropriate here because a) the formality of it outstrips the position I applied for to an extent and b) seems like kind of an antiquated method to me - has anyone here ever done something like this?

I was thinking of simply making a follow-up phone call to thank the person for taking the time to see me and express gratitude for being considered for the position - basically, I am trying to make myself stand out from the other people who will be interviewed for the job. Are there other things I could try that I am not thinking of?

Thanks in advance for any advice anyone has!

BlackEleven · 10-17-2008, 01:29 PM

Do you have an email address? The follow-up letter can easily be replaced by an email, which might be the more informal route you're looking to take. If you don't have one, you may be able to get the H/R email from the company website (assuming they have one).

BlackArcher101 · 10-17-2008, 01:31 PM

I usually do a follow up thank you e-mail which states you are available for a second interview if required.

Titan · 10-17-2008, 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Got Miikka?

So, I had a job interview and I wanted to consult the CP oracle, which is indeed wise in the ways of such things, on my post-interview next step. Here is my question: if one wanted to make a follow-up communication for an interview, what is currently the most effective means of doing so? Some of the older material I have read suggests a follow-up letter, but I don't think that is appropriate here because a) the formality of it outstrips the position I applied for to an extent and b) seems like kind of an antiquated method to me - has anyone here ever done something like this?

I was thinking of simply making a follow-up phone call to thank the person for taking the time to see me and express gratitude for being considered for the position - basically, I am trying to make myself stand out from the other people who will be interviewed for the job. Are there other things I could try that I am not thinking of?

Thanks in advance for any advice anyone has!

I think this is a good plan. An email is okay but could be seen as a bit too informal, maybe. Plus if you get to talk to the person it may lead to a conversation which should be a positive.

Got Miikka? · 10-17-2008, 01:35 PM

^ If I do make the call, today being Friday should I wait until Monday morning? I know this person will be in the office tomorrow - what is the standard waiting period?

Table 5 · 10-17-2008, 01:44 PM

I'd much rather a candidate email me instead of a phone call, but then again, I hate talking on the phone. Do follow up however....I almost never consider anyone who doesn't, simply because of its ability to display professionalism and respect.

Titan · 10-17-2008, 01:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Got Miikka?

^ If I do make the call, today being Friday should I wait until Monday morning? I know this person will be in the office tomorrow - what is the standard waiting period?

I would try to call today simply because they are more likely to be relaxed on a Friday and may talk more. However, if they are trying to leave don't try to keep them on the phone, obviously.

I would suggest a thank you for meetin me follow up is appropriate within the first 3 days after the interview. After that it becomes an "I am still interested" call.

cKy · 10-17-2008, 01:56 PM

I wouldnt call them on a Monday morning, most boss's are busy people first thing in the morning. I side with Table 5 with sending an email. Plus they see your name in their inbox and it may stick if they are trying to decide between you and another person.

Flash · 10-17-2008, 01:56 PM

I'd personally prefer a follow up email as well...I'm not a big fan of on the phone because it always seems like the canidate is looking for a decision right then and it makes me uncomfortable. If you don't have an email address for the person who interviewed you though, I'd go with the phone call, and I'd wait until Monday to do it, even though you know they're going to be available tomorow.

LOL...it's interesting to see everyone's opinions on when to call and why.

Swayze11 · 10-17-2008, 02:04 PM

It seems that a phone call is kind of pushy or desperate. Most people communicate by email a lot. Especially with blackberrys now, they will get the email instant and/or can read it later.

ken0042 · 10-17-2008, 02:37 PM

To me an email is a way of demonstrating what your communication skills are like. Especially if its a job that will involve emailing, it would be good to know that my potential employees aren't going to send an email like:

Quote:

OMG- ur office is the shizz!!!!!!!!!!one

Plus I find it less intrusive, if the interviewer is busy he can deal with your email when its convenient for him.

Russic · 10-17-2008, 02:55 PM

I prefer to go the email route. I find the phone call to be a dangerous way to communicate when stressed even a little. I prefer an email because I can craft it out and make sure I don't word something improperly or say something stupid - two things I'll easily do on a phone call. At least if you're writing an email you can think on something like "perhaps I should take out that joke about his hot assistant". Say that on the phone and the delete key doesn't work quite as well.

CaptainCrunch · 10-17-2008, 03:06 PM

follow him or her home, and break in when they're out. Cook them a nice dinner and leave them a bottle of wine, leave a note that says, "I know where you live and where your kids go to school. I'm really interested in your job opportunity and my perserverance and determination makes me a great fit in your organization.

You fill in the blanks. Sincerely whatever the hell your name is"

tvp2003 · 10-17-2008, 03:16 PM

Definitely email. Don't phone and try to "start a converstation" -- it's a courtesy thank you, not a second interview. Also, if you were interviewed by two people, it's easy to send the email to them at the same time.

Having said that, if there is a second interview, make it known that you're interested and would welcome the opportunity for a second interview. Otherwise, just be professional and concise in your email, and invite them to contact you should they have any further questions.

CaramonLS · 10-17-2008, 06:50 PM

I second the follow-up email.

Language · 10-17-2008, 10:19 PM

A question that can go along with this one. I sent a thank you e-mail after the first interview, and just had a second "meet the firm" interview. Should I send this person another email or would that be too much?

Tyler · 10-17-2008, 10:47 PM

I had a person call me after an interview who I had no intention of hiring, and it was nothing but awkward.

If you absolutely must contact them, I suggest an email. Even that seems pushy though. Everyone has been told the "you must stand out" spiel, but honestly, if you're the right candidate, they'll be calling you. This email likely won't put you over the edge.

Got Miikka? · 10-18-2008, 05:45 PM

It would seem the consensus is the email, and I think this is what I am going to go with. I tend to agree that in the end the gesture may be moot (interesting though, that two people in here who apparently do hiring had the opposite opinion on the matter), but as I understood it from asking in my interview the handful of people being reviewed are similarly qualified. I want to give myself every chance to have the advantage.

As far as the phone call my original thoughts mirrored many of those here as far as awkwardness. I kind of figured that if I could leave a message that would be better - but how is a person supposed to time something like that?

Anyway thanks again to all for your help - even you Captain Crunch, although I have to tell you I actually tried that once, and instead of a job I got a restraining order.

Ice · 10-18-2008, 05:57 PM

I also favor email. Back when I was in management I didn't appreciate follow up phone calls. It never fails the applicant would call when I was busy so they'd get blown off anyway. A well worded email was much better because I could read it when I was available.

GirlySports · 10-18-2008, 06:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CaptainCrunch

follow him or her home, and break in when they're out. Cook them a nice dinner and leave them a bottle of wine, leave a note that says, "I know where you live and where your kids go to school. I'm really interested in your job opportunity and my perserverance and determination makes me a great fit in your organization.

You fill in the blanks. Sincerely whatever the hell your name is"

HEY! That's how I got my current job. Stop giving away my tricks