So, you just finished a job interview. Whether you felt it went amazingly well or you stumbled a bit, getting feedback is crucial for your future job search success. Knowing how to ask for feedback, and what to do with it, can significantly improve your interview skills and increase your chances of landing your dream job. This guide will show you how to politely and effectively request feedback from interviewers, even if you weren't selected for the position.
Why Asking for Feedback is Important
Requesting feedback demonstrates proactiveness and a genuine interest in self-improvement. Interviewers appreciate candidates who are committed to growth. Beyond that, feedback provides invaluable insights into:
- Identifying Strengths: Learn what you did well and what resonated with the interviewers. This reinforces positive aspects of your interview style.
- Pinpointing Weaknesses: Understand areas needing improvement. This could be anything from communication skills to technical knowledge. Addressing these weaknesses will make you a stronger candidate in future interviews.
- Understanding the Company Culture: Feedback can offer a glimpse into the company's values and expectations. This knowledge is beneficial for future interviews with similar organizations.
- Improving Your Interview Technique: Learn how to better present your skills and experience to align with the specific job requirements.
How to Ask for Feedback After an Interview
The best approach is to be respectful, timely, and professional. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Send a Thank-You Note (First!)
Before requesting feedback, always send a thank-you email to each interviewer. This reinforces your interest and professionalism.
2. Wait a Reasonable Amount of Time
Give the interviewer some time to process the interviews and make their hiring decisions. Waiting a week is usually sufficient.
3. Craft a Professional Email Requesting Feedback
Here's an example email you can adapt:
Subject: Following Up - [Your Name] - [Job Title] Interview
Dear [Interviewer Name],
Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me on [Date] about the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I enjoyed learning more about the role and [Company Name].
I'm eager to continue improving my interviewing skills and would be grateful if you could share any feedback on my performance. Any insights you could provide would be incredibly valuable as I continue my job search.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Be Prepared for All Responses
- Positive Feedback: Express your gratitude and highlight how you’ll use the positive reinforcement to strengthen your approach in future interviews.
- Constructive Criticism: Listen carefully and take notes. Don’t get defensive; instead, focus on learning from the feedback. Ask clarifying questions if needed.
- No Feedback: Don’t be discouraged. Sometimes interviewers are very busy, or company policy might prevent detailed feedback. You can still use the experience to reflect on your own performance.
What to Do With the Feedback
Once you receive feedback, take time to reflect and analyze it. Consider:
- Specific Examples: Did the interviewer mention specific instances where you could have improved? Focus on addressing these areas.
- Recurring Themes: Are there recurring issues mentioned across multiple interviews? This indicates a need for significant improvement in that area.
- Actionable Steps: Create a plan to address the weaknesses identified. This might involve practicing your answers, improving your presentation skills, or gaining additional experience.
Getting Feedback Even If You Weren't Selected
Even if you didn't get the job, still ask for feedback! This shows your perseverance and dedication to self-improvement. The email approach remains the same, emphasizing your desire to learn and grow. Remember, each interview is a learning opportunity.
By actively seeking and utilizing feedback, you'll transform each interview experience into a valuable step towards your career goals. Don't be afraid to ask; it's a sign of strength and commitment.
