by Sun Meilan

Created on: October 23, 2009   Last Updated: May 30, 2011

Most people think that the recruitment process ends with the end of the interview. However, there are a number of things that you can do even after the interview to ensure that the recruiters know how interested you are in the job. Of course, if the interview went badly, then the chances of salvaging the situation are slim. Otherwise, you could just get the job if you adhere to the following situations:

Be polite to everyone

It is common sense that you should be polite to the people that interview you. At the end of the interview, you should thank them sincerely for their time and say that you look forward to hearing from them. It is also a good idea to ask them when you can expect to hear from them if they don't offer the information. Once you have left the interview room, however, make sure that your politeness extends to everyone that you come across. You may think that the reception staff and people on the doors aren't worth wasting your time with, but any rudeness or abruptness on your part may well be noted, mentioned and held against you when the potential employer is considering you for the job. Good manners cost nothing. Use them to your advantage.

Ask to speak to potential co-workers

A thorough interview process may already include you meeting with potential colleagues, so that you have the chance to speak to them about what the job actually involves on a day to day basis. If so, then it is worth asking them if you can call them up if you have any questions - and make sure that you do. If you haven't had the chance to meet them, then it is a good idea to ask during the interview whether you can meet up with them, either after the interview, or at a later date. This shows the employer that you are really interested in the job. It also gives you the opportunity to get people on your side. provided you make a good impression, of course. Interviewers often ask their colleagues what they think of interviewees and their opinion could just sway the vote in your favour.

Write a letter of thanks

It is considered polite to write a letter or send an email to the person or people that interviewed you, thanking them for their time. There is no need to use effusive language, just state that you enjoyed the interview and look forward to hearing from them in due course. If you feel confident enough, you could telephone - but be sure that it is a smart move before doing so - some employers would feel pressured by this direct contact, which may turn things against you. Even if you don't get the job, a letter of thanks will be remembered and you may be considered for a future possibility with the same organisation.

Don't pester

If there has been some length of time between the interview and hearing from them about the job, then it may be worth ringing to ask when you can expect to hear from them, especially if they gave you a date that has now passed. Once you have your answer though, don't keep ringing - again, pestering is likely to be considered annoying, which will not help your case. You could try the ploy of telling your potential boss that you have had another job offer in order to speed up the process, but again, you will need to be very sure of yourself before doing this, particularly if you don't have another job offer.

Much post-interview etiquette is common sense; however, it is surprising how many people don't follow it. It may not work for you every time, but the chances are it will eventually. Good luck with the job hunting!

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