You went through the interview process and didn’t get the job – now what? Most people just walk away at that point and don’t learn anything from the experience. But, what if there are only one or two things you’re doing unconsciously that stand in your way from getting the job you want?
Here are some ways to go about asking for feedback and how to turn it into a positive experience.
1. Discuss the Interview
Contact the interviewer and ask to have a short chat about the interview when it is convenient for them. This can be over the phone or in-person, depending on what you are comfortable with. Remember that they are busy and follow up with them if they don’t get back to you within a week.
2. Ask for Feedback
Make sure to ask for feedback in a positive way, such as what can you improve on to become a successful candidate in the future for a similar role or for a role within the organization. This will change the question from being negative, such as “why didn’t I get the job,” to something that will give you feedback that you can digest and work on.
3. Be Courteous
Be courteous when you hear the interviewer’s feedback, regardless of whether they give you constructive or bad feedback. Some people aren’t very good communicators, so thank them kindly for taking the time to speak with you and giving you great insight.
4. Implement an Action Plan
Make an action plan to use their criticism and feedback to benefit you. You may have to seek training or try volunteering to get more experience. Whatever it is that the interviewer suggests, don’t let it discourage you. There are ways to present your current skills to better market yourself and depending on where you live, there are usually opportunities within your community to further develop your abilities.
You can discuss your interview with a person or colleague you trust. They may be able to give you some good suggestions on what you can do next time.
The good thing about doing this is that you get to seek out opportunities for growth and learning more about yourself. Besides what is the alternative? Keep doing the same things that aren’t working for you? This way, at least you will find out what you are doing that is hindering your interview and work on changing those issues.
