Job seekers usually dedicate a lot of time to writing their resume, cover letter and practicing answers to interview questions. This, of course, is time well spent. However, it is important to treat the entire interview process professionally. Just because you did not get a particular job does not necessarily mean there will not be a position for you at the company in the future. Don’t blow it.
Recently, I spoke with a candidate who I had interviewed and told him he did not get the job. He immediately told me I was making a mistake. He insisted that he was perfect for the job. I thanked him again for his time and ended the conversation. Less than an hour later I received an email that began, “mrs. stamatelos, I ask that you ‘renig’ your decision.” Yes, he typed in all lower case and yes, he wrote “renig.” His superior language skills reinforced my decision. He continued, in his message, to basically tell me that the decision not to hire him was wrong.
Oh, if he had only stopped at that. Next, he sent emails, demonstrating more of his stellar use of English, to the Manager and Vice President telling them that he was the person the company should hire for the job. Trust me; this is NOT the way to leave a good impression.
Not getting a job you really wanted is disheartening. Handling rejection the wrong way is a big mistake. So, what should you do? First, thank the person for their time. It is acceptable to say that you are still interested in working for the company and should something open up that is a match for your skill set you would like to be considered. You can follow up with an email stating the same. Next, move on. Continue your job search, focus on new opportunities.
Here is some inside HR information. There are occasions when the candidate that was offered the job does not work out. Maybe you were a close second candidate. If you ended the interview process on good terms you will likely get a call asking if you are still interested. Similarly, other jobs may open in the future. If you left a good impression you might be considered.
My candidate, who was not chosen, ended his email to me, “as a great philosophery once said…”
Please, don’t be this guy.
PAUL FEINER Greenburgh Town Supervisor