Your first interview was textbook perfect. You arrived early, hit it off with the hiring manager, answered every question without pause and your credentials matched the job description to a T. So why haven't they called you back for a second interview? Sometimes you have to take the initiative and ask for it. A second interview is the opportunity to close the deal by fully selling yourself and your abilities to the employer.
There's a fine line between professionally assertive and pushy. If you still aren't getting feedback about the status of the position after a couple of contacts, inquire as to when a decision is going to be made or ask when you should check back again.
Step 1
Ask about the timetable for the next round of interviews at the close of your initial meeting. This will give you an indication of when you can expect a call.
Step 2
Write a follow-up thank you letter for your first interview if you haven't already done so. This acknowledges the interviewer’s time, expresses your appreciation and gives you an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position. It’s also an opportunity to summarize your qualifications for the job and outline why you want to work for the company. End your letter with a sentence such as, “I look forward to meeting with you again” or, “I hope we have a chance to further discuss the specifics of what you're looking for in this position.”
Step 3
Call your interview contact if you haven't heard from the company within a week. Say you’re calling to check on the status of the position and find out if second interviews are being conducted, or if the job has been filled. Talking to your contact will give you an idea about whether the company is still interested in you. They may still be conducting initial interviews or deciding what step to take next. The fact that you're checking in lets them know you're still interested and available.
Step 4
Send an email to your interview contact if you can't reach him by phone. Again, express your excitement and enthusiasm for the position and say you would appreciate having the chance to meet with him again, as well as talk to other members of his team. Use a hook if you have one, such as a statement like, “I’ve been thinking about your new marketing campaign, and I've come up with some ideas I think are in line with what you’re trying to accomplish. I’d love the opportunity to discuss a few concepts with you in person.” If you're feeling particularly bold, share some of your ideas in the email to show the employer you're serious about the job and have been putting a lot of thought into what you can bring to the company.
Tips
References
Tips
- There's a fine line between professionally assertive and pushy. If you still aren't getting feedback about the status of the position after a couple of contacts, inquire as to when a decision is going to be made or ask when you should check back again.
Writer Bio
Lisa McQuerrey has been a business writer since 1987. In 1994, she launched a full-service marketing and communications firm. McQuerrey's work has garnered awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the International Association of Business Communicators and the Associated Press. She is also the author of several nonfiction trade publications, and, in 2012, had her first young-adult novel published by Glass Page Books.