Get feedback after an interview – don`t make this mistakes

Getting feedback after a job interview is a great way to reflect and improve for the future.

You put a lot of work in writing your application and preparing for the job interview. If it does not work out in the end, it can feel like a waste of time. But you can still take away a lot from this experience.

Improve your application and interview skills by asking for feedback this time. It will pay of the next time. However, don’t make these mistakes.

Assume getting feedback is standard practice

Application guides recommend to get feedback on your performance during the interview process. Despite this, it is not standard practice, yet.

Be prepared to encounter puzzled recruiters when making your request for feedback. Don’t be deterred when they hesitate before proceeding with your request. Just hang in there.

It rarely happens that the recruiter asks whether you wish to receive feedback. But do not wait for this to happen.

Expect to learn the true reasons for not being hired

Sadly, you did not get the job. Unfortunately, this does not mean that you are eligible to learn the true reasons why. More often than not, the reasons given are quite vague. This is partly due to legal reasons. Companies don’t want to be targeted by discrimination lawsuits.

Because of this, you should focus your feedback request on your performance. Maybe they can point out areas to improve in your next interview. The feedback might also be valuable to learn how others see you. All this is useful for the future.

Not asking for feedback

This is maybe obvious. After reading the first two points, you might have adjusted your expectations when asking for feedback.

Still ask for it! You deserve getting some feedback. Whatever you learn from it helps you in one way or the other.

Feel offended

I know it is difficult. But don’t be offended personally, if you don’t get the job. Despite your heartbreak, try to keep your request for feedback as friendly and professional as possible.

After all, this increases the chance to get any valuable feedback at all. If you want to reveal some of your feelings, emphasize your wish to improve the next time.