You have completed your application and are delighted to be invited for an interview and think it has gone really well. Everything is looking good, and then you find out… you didn’t get the job!
If you are not successful at an interview it is worth asking for feedback from the employer.
Turn a failed interview into a learning experience and plan for your next interview. This will increase your chances of a successful interview and getting the job you want.
Rather than trying to guess the reasons why you didn’t get the job, being proactive and asking could give you valuable information that could make all the difference to your job search.
Why Didn’t I Get The Job?
Contact the employer and let them know that you would like to improve your interviewing skills and would appreciate their feedback. Keep it short and to the point and explain the reason you are asking for their feedback. Explaining that you want to learn from this experience will ward off any concerns that they may have about getting into an argument with a disgruntled applicant and that you genuinely want to know what could be improved as a learning experience.
What Worked Well and What Could Be Improved?
Asking what could be improved frames the feedback in a positive light. It isn’t about what was “wrong” but instead what could be tweaked for your next interview to increase your chances of success.
It is also worth asking what worked. Sometimes we don’t recognise our own strengths and even if you didn’t get the job, it can help your confidence to know what works well about your approach.
What Would Make The Difference In Future?
If the employer is willing to help you could ask for tips on future applications and what they think could make the difference in your interviews.
Listen
If you are asking for feedback it is important to be open and willing to listen to what is shared with you. Even if you don’t agree with the feedback, be gracious and listen to what is shared with you and remember, you asked!
Note: There are times when you may have a hunch that you should have got the job and were treated unfairly. You want to make sure that you have a case (and not just a bruised ego) before you proceed. Get some advice and if you feel that you haven’t been dealt with fairly and want to take this up, there are ways in which you can take your case further.
Bio: Jen Smith is a Life Coach, Mentor & Writer. She has tried many career paths herself and now helps people achieve their goals and dreams.
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