Strategies for soliciting feedback following an unsuccessful job interview.
Asking for feedback after an interview rejection can help you improve your job search process and be better prepared for future opportunities. Here's a guide on how to request feedback from the hiring manager effectively.
Seek Feedback for Professional Growth
After an interview, it's essential to tidy up any emotions you might be feeling before reaching out to the company. Instead of dwelling on the rejection, focus on the possibility of using the feedback to enhance your interview skills and resume.
Career coach, Luki Danukarjanto, emphasizes adopting a constructive mindset, similar to Shakespeare's quote, "for there is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so" (Shakespeare, Act 2, Scene 2). By reframing the rejection as an opportunity to fine-tune your approach, you will better position yourself for future success.
How to Ask for Feedback
Considering your feelings, it's time to get in touch with the company. Start by sending a well-composed, polite email to the HR manager or interviewer. The objective is to keep the interaction as positive as possible while seeking constructive insights into your performance. Stick to asking about your interview, resume, or CV.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
Before diving into specific questions, take a moment to acknowledge your emotions and process them. Accept that rejection is part of the job-hunting process and, generally, not a reflection of your worth or abilities.
Instead of self-criticizing or blaming the employer, accept the results and look for positive aspects during the interview, such as the skills you showcased or the connections you made.
2. Ask for Feedback Directly
Following emotional self-assessment, approach the company and request their feedback. Wait a day or two after the rejection to send an email, or call if you prefer a more immediate exchange.
Step 1. Express Gratitude
Open your communication with a polite thank-you for the interview opportunity. If you remember specific names from your discussion, include them to show a personal touch.
Step 2. Show Disappointment Politely
Express disappointment at not being selected for the position in a respectful way, emphasizing your appreciation for the opportunity and the company.
Step 3. Show Determination
Reiterate your desire to learn and grow, and mention your willingness to learn from your mistakes. This positivity demonstrates your commitment to improvement and increases the chances of receiving constructive feedback.
Step 4. Ask Specific Questions
Ask focused questions regarding your performance, missing qualifications, or ways you could have improved during the interview. Jot down feedback you receive, pay close attention to specific suggestions, and use them to strengthen your interview skills and resume.
Step 5. Ask for their Opinions on Your Cover Letter and Resume
Ask for their feedback on the materials you submitted, including your cover letter and resume. Record notes about what they like, dislike, and what was missing, then adjust your application to become more competitive.
Step 6. Ask for Their General Feedback
Towards the end of your email or conversation, ask for any additional comments or thoughts they might have. Always remember to express interest in the company and convey your willingness to be considered for future opportunities aligning with your qualifications.
Following Up and Improving
Once you collect feedback, analyze it carefully to identify trends and areas for improvement. Compare the feedback with your self-assessment and think of ways to enhance your presentation, knowledge, or skills.
Continue to apply the solutions to your future interviews, ultimately getting closer to that perfect job.
- To hunt for better interview outcomes and future career opportunities, embrace the wisdom of Shakespeare's quote, "for there is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so," and view rejection as a stepping stone to personal and career growth.
- Requesting feedback after an interview not only aids in developing interview skills and refining your resume, but it also demonstrates your sincere dedication to career development and learning.
- In seeking feedback, maintain a constructive mindset and ensure your communication with the hiring manager remains courteous, insightful, and focused on improving your education, self-development, and career development.
