Job Interview: How to finish "First" even if you finished second

Here's how to get a second chance for that ideal job that you finished second for.

As a recruiter and career coach for the past 15 years, I cannot count how many times I have heard a candidate inform me they "finished second" for job they really wanted. I often ask candidates what did after they did after not getting the job. Most respond with nothing while others sent a standard thank you email to the company in appreciation for their consideration.  From a strategic point of view, both follow up-actions do very little to give these candidates a second chance for that job. 

Try this strategic approach to get a real second chance for that ideal job you. Follow up with the management 2-3 months after not getting the job.Your timing may be ideal as the traditional 3-month probationary period for their new hire is approaching. Statistically a certain percentage of new hires simply do not work out as expected.

Conversely, some new hires might be less than thrilled with their new job or unimpressed with management or simply discover the corporate culture is not the right fit. Your timing and follow-up re-expressing interest in the position may be welcome news to the hiring manager for many reasons.

Most managers do not love the hiring process.  In fact we've all probably noted instances where less-than-ideal employees were kept beyond their probationary period simply due to management's lack of interest in spending another few weeks of time, effort and costs required to re-hire someone.

Furthermore, the other candidates that competed against you months ago rarely follow up.   So your well-planned follow-up call and renewed interest in the position may provide the perfect opportunity for management to re-consider hiring you, saving the company time, effort and money.

So when your searching for a great new career, remember you always have the second chance to finish first.

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About Minto Roy

Brings more than a decade of experience in career management. He provides expert commentary on employment issues and trends and has been a regular columnist for the South Asian Post. To learn more about Minto Roy connect with him on Twitter, or LinkedIn.