Kathryn writes:
I recently went to a job fair seeking a position which was exactly what I have been looking for, and matches my background perfectly…. However, after a preliminary interview I was told I would get a call the next day (No call, two business days have passed).
Afterwards I felt I did not do my best. Although my background is exactly what they were looking for, there was also an aptitude test and a personality test, and I get anxious and start over thinking every little thing.
That said, I have since learned this same company is holding another job fair this week for the same position. Do I forget about it and cut my losses, or do I go back only this time better prepared? I don’t know that the same recruiter will be present at this up coming job fair.
The Career Doctor responds:
There are several issues here and let me see if I can address them all.
First, you — and all job-seekers — really need to learn the importance of follow-up. Just because an employer tells you they will contact you at some point in the future (and then doesn’t) does not necessarily mean bad news. So, pick up the phone and call the employer and ask where your application stands. It is that simple. And two days is nothing in this current extended job-search cycle.
Second, did you send a thank-you note after the job fair? Not doing so may not have cost you a call back, but doing so gives you an edge over many other job-seekers. Always write a thank-you letter as quickly as possible after the interview, but even a couple of days later is still okay.
Third, aptitude and personality tests are certainly trendy these days, and it is a possibility that whatever you scored did not match the “type” that they hire. But you have no way of knowing this information unless you follow-up. There really are no wrong answers on these things, so next time, just relax and do not over-think your answers.
Fourth, why not go to the job fair? If you see the same recruiter there, it’s the perfect situation to say that you hoped s/he was there so you could follow-up in person and ask about the status of your application. If it is a different recruiter, build rapport first, but then mention that you had applied for a position and were waiting for a call back.
Remember to read: Follow Up All Job Leads: Don’t Wait by the Phone (or Computer), published on Quintessential Careers.
And get the scoop on the importance of thank-you letters in this article: FAQs About Thank You Letters.
