Interview GoodBye

Good-Bye Doesn't Mean Forever

Interviewing with a company you are excited about and not getting the job is obviously disappointing. Not being selected for that position doesn’t mean that it is good-bye forever. Many times candidates make the mistake of assuming because they were once rejected it eliminates them from all other opportunities within that organization. The good news is if you find a team that you truly want to work with, there are three key things that you can do to position yourself for the next opening.

First, when you receive notification you did not make the final cut ask if there are other groups with the company where you would be a good fit. If the answer is yes, request names and contact information so that you can communicate with the new group. It will also help if the manager gives you permission to say that he/she recommended that you introduce yourself to these teams. If they don’t want to provide the contact information, ask if they will forward your resume to the appropriate person in that department. You also have the option of finding these teams on you own. See "Find a Sponsor" on the Communications page of this site for ideas.

Next, tactfully state to the manger that you realize that competition for the opportunity was strong. Then ask what skills you could obtain in order to be competitive for future opportunities. For example, if the job is technical ask if there is training or certifications that might improve your future chances. If it is a sales position, perhaps improving your product or industry knowledge would help. This information might not be easy to get, but work hard to see if you can find the answer.

Finally, once you know the skills that need to be improved, chart a course and time-line for completion. Communicate your plan to the hiring manager and periodically update them as each milestone is reached. Once you feel that you have satisfied the requirements to be competitive in the role you are seeking ask the manager for a meeting – not an interview – to discuss your progress. There may not be a position open for you at that time but you will have demonstrated your energy, drive and initiative in a way that is not normally observed in the interview process. When a position does open you will be one of the first candidates they think of. Chances are they will also recommend you to their peers for other opportunities.

A note of caution, do not jump the gun on requesting this meeting. Going before you are ready will be seen as a waste of time and likely damage the relationship. Also, don’t over communicate as you don’t want to be seen as desperate.