What Should One Do After the Interview?

FattyBoeBatty asks: "So I finally find the perfect company to work for. Unfortunately, they're only going to hire 3 out of the 200 people they're interviewing. So here's my question: I know there are a lot of slashdotters in charge of hiring - what post-interview actions do you like to see on the part of the interviewee? Is it possible for him/her to seem too enthusiastic about getting the job? How often should one call to inquire about the hiring process and re-express interest? What about mailing/emailing the company? Do you guys have any examples of when someone managed to stand out (or appeared too annoying)? I've never seen a question like this addressed in detail; I hope the Slashdot community can give me some sound advice."

Comments

irrelevant, just to nothing

[maol]

Don't bug them. If I'm in charge I just decide based on what I've seen in the docs and how he/she behaved during the interview.
Their calling shortly after an interview just disturbs me and doesn't help their position at all.

Ok, one thing to consider: if you are good and could have other interesting jobs, let them know so they can decide a bit faster.

Re:irrelevant, just to nothing

[Milican]

I think this is highly subjective, but I got my current job with a follow up call. Not a nagging once a week call, but one follow up call. I did very well in two interviews (I think) and the boss was quite excited at the conclusion of my second interview. However, after two - three weeks still no follow up call. Jealous that my roomies has gotten follow up calls I decided to make one of my own. Sure enough, they were happy to hear from me, apologized for not contacting me and I got the job :)

I think the follow up call after a few weeks is essential and shows that you really are interested in the job. In addition, I believe it shows that you are not just blanketing the earth with resumes.

JOhn

JOhn

Send a thank-you letter

[funkman]

If you are serious - send a thank you letter for letting you interview. During the letter point out your strong points about you (or from your interview).

It shows you are serious and when all things seem equal in a pool that size - the extra recognition can put you ahead.

A few comments

[zonk the purposeful]

Just my own take on it. I've been interviewing and then hiring for six years.

So I finally find the perfect company to work for. Unfortunately, they're only going to hire 3 out of the 200 people they're interviewing.

Sounds a bit odd, did they get 200 CV's or try to interview the whole lot- at one time.. it sounds a bit extreme..

So here's my question: I know there are a lot of slashdotters in charge of hiring -
what post-interview actions do you like to see on the part of the interviewee?

My preference is that they do nothing. When I've spent a couple of days interviewing it all becomes a bit of a blur, and I work off off notes at the end. In any case I have a pretty good feeling as to what going to happen with the candidate.

Is it possible for him/her to seem too enthusiastic about getting the job?

Yes. You risk coming across as a bit insecure to me. Maybe high maintainence, neither traits impress.

How often should one call to inquire about the hiring process and re-express interest? What about mailing/emailing the company?

If your working through a recruiter hassle them as much as you like, same with HR if you are going direct, that's what they are there for. - just be polite..

Do you guys have any examples of when someone managed to stand out (or appeared too annoying)?
Occasionally where in the interview the candidate has talked about some stuff. Getting a mail with URL's about it - I like that. It doesn't have to be tech, I'll have tried to pick up on your hobbies & pasttimes in the interview anyway, if it's stuff I'm into - them by all means.

I would just chill, keep the CV's going out. oh.. and try and find a _good_ recruitment firm to represent you. I know some of the guides say ring/email after the interview but with me it doesn't help.

Frankly the process can take a week, or 3 months.. and with 200(!) candidates it will probably take them a month to get through the interviews..

Nothing, unless they're late getting back to you

[renehollan]

First, you aced the interview, right. Right?

Being on both sides of the interview fence, I find that those that are a clear cut above the rest get the offer, and soon. The decision is usually made the day of the interview. I've never waited more than 12 hours for a positive response.

It used to be that you'd interview everyone and then pick. More recently (though this may have changed with the downturn), it's been, "If you like the guy let's make an offer" and move on to the next one if the offer is rejected.

research the company, then make one call

[BroadbandBradley]

find out details about the company then make that ONE call and work it into the conversation. I think that if you can show that you actually looked into the company (details like who owns the company how the stock is doing who the competitors are where they stand in the market etc....), it show that YOU ARE CONSIDERING LETTING THEM EMPLOY YOU. Take the approach that you are your own company trying to work out a contract even if it's not contract work but don't seem arrogant in doing so. The last thing any SMART employer wants is a bunch of mindless drones who don't give a rats ass about the big picture and the goals of the company as a whole.
disclaimer: I don't work in HR.