There is nothing quite like the feeling of walking out the door after sitting through an intense interview process. . .as a potential candidate. This may have been your chance to land that dream job. Now what? How do you stay top of mind with the hiring manager AFTER the interview?
You can set yourself apart by the way you thank the interviewer(s) for their time and consideration. The current trend leans toward sending either a follow up thank you text or email that evening after the interview. . .to each person who interviewed you. Part of your strategy should include doing the UNEXPECTED. Write a personal, handwritten note. . .to each person who interviewed you. Be sure to collect business cards from each person you talked with to ensure you have their correct name, spelling, title and address.
As a former HR professional whose experience ranged from HR Admin through Director of HR, I can personally attest to the fact that this small gesture makes a significant impact. There was a time when handwritten notes were the norm. Today, with our technology overload, it is the rare individual who understands the value.
Here is why this works. First, you have taken extra time to personally and thoughtfully show appreciation for their valuable time. Second, you have another opportunity to state how you will be able to help the organization meet and exceed their goals (and you are demonstrating you possess interpersonal skills). Third, when you snail mail this note of gratitude, it will be received within a few days. Why is this good? It puts you back in front of them, reminding them of you and your accomplishments. Maybe they are on the fence between you and another candidate. This small gesture could be the decision maker. It’s about relationship building and it is very difficult to build one without communication. Relationships take time and nurturing and the more you are present the better the outcome.
Use high quality, professionally appropriate stationery — not the cheapest thing you can find online. If you don’t already have personalized stationery, this is a good time to invest in some. Once you land the job, you will be writing more notes throughout your career to recognize managers, employees, clients and vendors who have helped along the way.
It is important to take care of these relationships throughout the course of your career journey. You never know when you may need their help in the future. Be sure to remember your network as well and show your appreciation. For a few minutes of your time and the cost of a postage stamp, you will be rewarded exponentially.
Now that you have landed your dream job, thank those who have helped you along the way, continue to show appreciation for their role in your success and be an example to others striving for their dream job.
