Picture this...
You just finished an interview with that company you've had your eyes on for months. You "crushed it", "knocked it out of the park", they totally want to hire you. Even better, the company has everything you're looking for: great leadership, upward mobility, a strong brand, countless benefits, and provides the opportunity to earn more money than you make now... SWEET, AWESOME, THIS IS GREAT!
On your way home, you pull out your iPhone, quickly type a thank-you email to the hiring manager, take a deep breadth, click send and BOOM, mic drop... Though, as you see the "SENT" confirmation, you glance over your email and suddenly you realize something is VERY WRONG...
OH SH!#$!! Your auto-correct changed the name of hiring manager from Dominick to Dominique!
Smooth. Real Smooth...
Well, these things can happen and in my line of work, they happen much more often than you think. So, I decided to make a list of some common mistakes that I frequently see in the hopes that you will not make them when your time comes.
Mistake 1. Not following Up AFTER the interview
Yes, unfortunately, this happens a lot. A candidate completes his/her interview and then goes completely dark. No email, no call, no follow at all. Please don't make this mistake... A follow-up post interview is not a suggestion, consider it a requirement. Out of respect, you should always thank anyone who takes time out of their busy day to interview you for an opportunity. Even if you tanked the interview or are planning to turn down the offer. DO IT!
Mistake 2. Being too long winded
You already had the chance to present yourself in person. There is no reason to reiterate your entire story in a multi-page novel. Every once in awhile I receive a “When I was little” email… Please don’t do that. Get to the point.
Mistake 3. Sending the same thank you to all parties you met
I admit it, I am guilty of this, but for those who don't know-- hiring managers will most likely debrief with everyone who was involved in the interview process. Especially, when it comes to comparing thank you/follow emails (reference MISTAKE 1). I know it seems efficient, but please avoid the "copy and paste method" - it just makes you appear lazy.
Mistake 4. Thinking too far ahead/assumptive close
Ahhh, the “when can I start” email. Although they are always humorous to read from a recruiting standpoint - they often come off as tacky and even worse, arrogant. Also, in the chance any of the interviewers were on the fence regarding you as a candidate...this usually confirmations their apprehensions and make it easy to pass on you as a candidate.
Mistake 5. No attention to detail
Take your time and really think through your follow up communication to hiring managers before you hit send. I would highly suggest having a trusted friend or mentor read it over first. A speedy follow up is great but a sloppy message will hurt you much more than an efficient but delayed response. So, please make sure names are spelled correctly and your messages are at least grammatically sound. (don't judge me though..)
Mistake 6. Too Thankful - Practically desperate
We obviously recommend for you to show interest and excitement for the opportunity you just interviewed for. However, there is a fine line between coming off as grateful and excited vs. obsessive and downright “creepy”. Pretend like you have been here before, thank them for their time, express confidence in your ability to deliver results and don't give them the impression that you will show up at their house if they don't hire you.
THANK YOU FOR READING & SHARING!
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