What to Say After an Interview

The final question has been asked and answered and the interviewer has stood, indicating that the interview is now over. You should just skip out while singing a medley of tunes from Annie Get Your Gun, right? Oh my, no! First, adults do not skip. And while singing show tunes is not bad if that is your thing, it should not be your thing before, during or after a job interview. So, what should you say instead?

First and foremost you should say "thank you". Thank the interviewer for their time, and for considering you for this position. Extend your hand, look them straight in the eyes and make sure that they believe what you say.

Establish when you should be hearing back from the interviewer and who will be making the contact. Will you call to see if a decision has been reached, or will you be waiting for them to call you? Clarify any information that you feel unsure of, and write it down if you feel you must. Popping open a nicely kept agenda to add information looks professional and organized; scribbling a few poorly spelled words on the palm of your hand does not.

Do not try to take up more of the interviewer's time, especially with idle, non work related small talk. If the interviewer makes a remark, go ahead and respond and then depart. Lingering gives the impression that you are either snooping for information, a chatty Cathy or that you have nothing better to do during the day. Be polite and speak if you are spoken too, but do not take more than your fair share of the interviewers time.

The day after an interview, send a brief email or note to the interviewer, again thanking her for her time, and for her consideration of your application. Restate your interest in the position, and state that you are looking forward to hearing from her. End the email or note there so that it does not get too long, your goal is to keep it no more than one full paragraph at most. If you send it by "snail mail" make sure that the outer envelope is addressed to the correct person.

No matter how you feel you performed during the interview, remain calm, positive and professional. Do not burst into tears and wail "I really blew that interview, huh?" You might not have done as poorly as you think, but that little performance may have done you in. Even if you think you flubbed each and every single question, stiffen your spine, hold your head up and say "thank you for your time" on the way out. You can do your wailing in your car on the way home.