Questions You May Not Have Asked

Like most of us, you’ve been to a job interview where you wish you could go back and answer that one question again, this time without those nervous blinders attached to your response. You wonder how you might have prepared better, or how you can keep at the top of the HR manager’s must-hire candidate list.

The questions below are from real job-seekers about the interview process and the follow-up process. If any of it sounds familiar, you’re probably in the right place!

(1) I have friends and/or family at the company to which I just applied. How can I use my contacts there to help my application stand out?

While nepotism (those in positions of hiring power giving family or friends jobs) is not illegal, the consequences can lead to allegations of illegal hiring practices. Whether true or not, it’s best to avoid this type of situation when applying for a job.

A better way to give yourself a “leg up” would be to ask your acquaintances about the company and what it’s like to work there. This type of knowledge will prepare you better for the interview, as well as help you decide whether it is really someplace you’d like to work.

(2) I interviewed for a job and sent a ‘thank you’ note to follow up, but haven’t heard anything back. It has been a couple weeks since – should I contact the hiring manager again or move on?

While common courtesy suggests that you should have received a response to your note, in many cases, you may not hear back unless you were the selected candidate. A short thank you and show of interest is encouraged, as it may put you back on the hiring manager’s radar for the position or a similar one.  However, you may also not hear back at all – keep looking and moving forward with the same professional attitude you’ve already shown.

(3) What is the best way to get endorsements and recommendations on my LinkedIn profile? Wait. What is LinkedIn?

The best way is to ask your connections directly. Those who know you the best are most likely to endorse your skill set.  LinkedIn is a business-oriented social networking service used by business professionals and job seekers looking to connect.

Just a little something to get you going this week! If you’re new to marketing yourself online, you can check out the LinkedIn web site. Basic profiles are free and all you need to get started to let potential employers know you’re out there.