Job interviews

Interview follow-up activities

The process of looking for a position does not stop at the interview. Despite the outcome the interview is a learning experience and there is still work to be accomplished before you move on to other opportunities or accept or reject an offer of employment.

Reflection

take time to look back on the interview and how you think it went. This means that the interview can be used as a learning experience.
if you came across a question that you think you answered inappropriately, you can think of a better way to answer it. Think of the reasons why you may not have performed appropriately. For example, was it due to lack of self-knowledge, lack of organization knowledge, personality incompatibility or performance anxiety. Doing this will assist you in future interviews if you are not offered this job.
it may be left up to you to find out whether or not you were successful in getting the job. You should have received the details on how you went during your interview.

Accepting or rejecting an offer

always consider the offer before accepting. There may be other factors that are influencing whether or not you can accept the job. This may include the availability of another job that you believe would be more suited to you.
discuss the offer with family and friends, or your current employer if this is appropriate.
if you decide to accept the offer you should ring on the agreed day and time. When accepting an offer make sure you get the details on starting dates, remuneration and methods of payment and any unclear duties. You may also follow up your verbal acceptance with a short letter.
if refusing the job you will need to do so in a polite and courteous manner. You should be cautious if you are rejecting on the basis of remuneration as the company may offer a new deal. You may also want to work for them in the future, so make sure you state the exact reasons you are not accepting the job and thank them for the opportunity.

Seeking feedback

if unsuccessful in getting the job, it will be helpful in your continued search to understand why.
let the employer know that the reason you want to find out why you were unsuccessful is because it will help you in future job searching efforts. You must make it clear that you want concrete suggestions on how you could improve for future applications.
do not just accept the words ‘you did not meet out requirements'.