The Dreaded Call Back: How to Follow Up After a Job Interview

The dreaded “call back”. You know the routine: You put on your best face, spend significant time revealing details about your personal/professional life, answering probing questions and even asking a few of your own. You think everything went well; you liked him, he seemed to like you. He said he’d call you. But, he doesn’t call and you begin to agonize over what you did wrong and what you should do next.

Does this sound familiar? Sure, it sounds like a dating scenario, but if you look at it from the job-seeker point of view, you’ll recognize that it’s also a typical scenario following an interview. It’s unfortunate but true – employers leave job candidates hanging after the interview. So, what can you do?

Before you swear off on ever “dating” again, pick up the phone and CALL!  You are not being pushy; you are showing continued interest in the company and position and remaining the master of your career and job search. Modify the following “script” and practice it out loud before you make the call:

“Hello, this is Joe JobSeeker. I interviewed two weeks ago for the position of Head Widget Maker and am calling to check on the status of that position and to restate my interest in working for Widget Makers of America. “

If the decision is still pending, enthusiastically remind them of the value you have to offer. If the position has been filled, ask for feedback about your qualifications and areas in which you could improve to better qualify, should a similar position open on down the road. They may not tell you, but you have nothing to loose by asking.

Next time you have an interview, be proactive. Before you leave the interview, determine the game plan. Ask the following: “When do you hope to be making a decision? Will someone be calling me or may I phone you to follow up?” Be sure to ask for the interviewer’s business card so you know who to follow up with. Send a thank you note. Follow up on every job interview until you either get an offer or a rejection. Don’t let a prospect die from neglect.

As for dating? You’re on your own with that!