Page 216 - 301 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview, Second Edition

YOU BLEW T HE I N T ERV IEW. NOW W H AT ?

Just listen and say thank you. Remember, the strongest words you
can say to someone who is criticizing you are, “Please tell me more.”
In this case, criticism is a gift. Take what you learn and do better
next time.

ENLARGE THE RECRUITER’S TERRITORY

Whether you get a job offer or not, follow up with a thank-you letter.
You’d be surprised how few candidates actually take this simple step.
Most recruiters tell rejected applicants they will keep their résumés
on file, and a few actually mean it. But if you send a great letter
accepting the recruiter’s decision and suggesting that if another posi-
tion more suitable opened up you would very much like for the com-
pany to consider you, chances are much greater that the recruiter
would follow through.

In addition to a thank-you letter, consider leaving the recruiter
better off for having interviewed you. You can enlarge the recruiter’s
territory by referring someone with the skills you know the recruiter
is searching for or by introducing the recruiter to a potential client.
The more you can be helpful to the recruiter, the more likely the
recruiter will be helpful to you. Here are a few of the steps you could
take:

• If you know of one, recommend another good candidate for the
job.

• If you can offer some other relationship such as a sales lead,
do it.

• If you know of a new website or job board, alert the recruiter.
• Send an article or Web link you think the recruiter might find

helpful.
• If nothing else, ask if there is anything you can do to help the

recruiter or his or her company.

Remember, vision is good, but it doesn’t get you anywhere unless
you combine it with action and a questioning attitude. Listen more
than you speak and every venture will bear fruit. Good luck with
job search.

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