29 Transitioning to a new career or starting your first career can be both exciting and stressful. The process can feel overwhelming between applying for new jobs, interviewing, and juggling multiple applications. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, there’s a sense of possibility as you chart your career path. While actively searching for a new job, it’s essential to consider how to follow up after each interview. “Every rejection is a redirection.” – Mel Robbins. While rejection can hurt in the moment, please take it as a learning opportunity and reflect on the next steps before you move on to the next path. While you may hope to land the first job you apply for, that’s not always how it goes. This article shares tips to consider as you navigate the interview process. Have confidence in your skills and the value you can bring to the organization, but also practise patience. Take time to celebrate your small wins. If you made it through multiple interviews but missed out on a job offer, remember that the company saw value in your skills and expertise; it might not have been the right match this time. Stay adaptable and trust that the right opportunity will come. Now that you’ve completed your interview, what should you do next while waiting to hear whether you were successful? INTERVIEW FOLLOW-UP Your first step after the interview is to send a personalized note to the interviewers within 24 hours, thanking them for their time and consideration. A follow-up note is excellent for expressing gratitude and reinforcing your interest in the role. Some hiring committees might make decisions immediately, so don’t wait to send it if this note will impact them. In this note, reiterate your interest in the position and company. Keep it professional and concise. Reference something you discussed during the interview or highlight what stood out about the position or organization; this shows your listening skills and ability to connect. Make sure to avoid sending out generic or recycled messages. Instead, personalize your email for the role, company and person you interviewed. A follow-up email can be a great way to keep the interview team in mind, but be sure to proofread your message before sending it to ensure that you are making the best possible impression. Another way to show interest in the role is to ask questions about the follow-up while you are still in the interview. Phrasing questions like “When can I expect to hear back from you?” or “What are the next steps in your interview process?” reflects your enthusiasm and helps establish clear expectations. HOW TO FOLLOW UP AFTER AN INTERVIEW …AND WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE REJECTED BY KATIE HUNTER, TALENT SOLUTIONS MANAGER, AGCAREERS AGCAREERS FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE PHOTO: vitapix / E+ via Getty Images
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTQyMDk=