Don't Do These Things After an Interview

Understanding what actions are best after an interview is key for job seekers to maximize their chances of getting hired. Consider what you should never do after an interview to avoid sabotaging yourself.

Forget to Follow Up

It is the responsibility of the job seeker to follow up after the interview to make a lasting impression, and those who do not follow up limit their chances of securing employment. A hiring manager can interview dozens of job candidates for a single position in a week, and some passive candidates are never given a second thought after the interview. When you follow up with the hiring manager by telephone or email, your interview results, resume and cover letter are likely to be evaluated more closely.

Neglect to Send a Token of Your Appreciation

If you forget to send a thank-you letter, you are missing the chance to give yourself an edge over the competition. Sending a letter is one of the best ways to show your appreciation and to stand out as a candidate. Not only is sending a simple thank you letter a fine token of goodwill, but it places you in the mind of the hiring manager who interviewed you. Use the proper name and title of the hiring manager if possible, and send the letter within 24 hours of the interview. Some savvy business professionals may also send flowers, candy or creative gifts to deeply show their gratitude.

Worry About Your Performance

Many job seekers have the tendency to worry about how well they did after the interview. Make an honest assessment of your past performance, and then make the decision to no longer worry about it. Even if you do not get the job, you can use the experience to determine the areas where you need to improve to perform better during your next interview. Choosing to remain positive and confident keeps you upbeat, and it makes you more susceptible to opportunities for advancement everywhere.

Vent on Social Media

Do not make the mistake of misrepresenting yourself online after the interview. The hiring manager is likely to evaluate you as a candidate over the next few days and weeks, so it is important to behave appropriately in the social media world. Many employers admit to investigating candidates through social media, and some change their mind about a candidate after reading something negative on his social media account. Avoid the urge to vent after the interview on social media about an employer; an inappropriate post could kill your chances at getting hired.

Stop Looking for Employment

Nearly every candidate has believed at one time he got the job, only to find out later the employment opportunity crumbled. Even if your job interview goes well, do not stop applying for other positions at least until you are actually hired. Doing so gives you additional opportunities to find work, and then you can select the most beneficial job offer available among them.

Knowing what to do after the interview can make all the difference in whether you are hired. Cast your influence over the outcome by doing the right things to land the job.

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