Do you remember how enthusiastic and excited you were after your first interview? I hope so. You will need to continue to share that level of interest with the hiring manager as the process continues.
Candidates who fail to communicate sincere interest throughout the process are certain to miss out. It is difficult to stay interested when an organization has a different timeline than yours. It is easy to let the voice in your head tell you that the company is not really interested in you. When you are in career transition and want to return to work quickly two weeks can feel like two months!
Instead of waiting for “the” phone call, use your time to pursue other opportunities. Focusing on only one opportunity at a time may extend your search by months.
Also use the time to learn additional information about the position for which you interviewed and the company you are looking forward to joining. Doing this prepares you for your second interview — preparation is rare at this level and it will set you apart from the competition.
Here are some easy ways to make the most of your second interview:
- Read the company website and press releases.
- Learn about the company’s products and services.
- Read LinkedIn and online profiles of employees, leaders, and managers who work for the company.
- Connect with appropriate people in the organization, online and in-person.
- Read and learn about the company’s competitors.
- Practice interviewing.
- Know how you come across and how you demonstrate interest, eagerness, and enthusiasm.
Being able to authentically communicate how you fit and how your experience will help the hiring manager achieve his/her goals will help you ace the second interview.
It is a challenge to wait for the next interview. Make the most of the time and prepare.
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Cindy, it is not unusual in academia and research to have the second interview, especially for the prestigious fellowships. I love the list you offer to go through in preparation for it. “Read and learn about the company’s competitors” is one that stuck out for me, and this is something I will remember to pass on to scientists.
Great post Cindy! Great ways to stay empowered in the process!
You’ve packed so many great tips into this post, Cindy! Candidates can learn so much about a company by reading it’s websites and press releases. And reviewing the LinkedIn profiles of the company’s employees will reveal so much information – from mutual acquaintances and alma maters to work history and hobbies.
Olga, glad you will pass this tip “learn about the company’s competitors” on to scientists. Scientists who know business, have leadership and management skills can open many door in business today. There are many organizations seeking scientists who are talented in their area of science and shine in other areas as well.
Lori, you too have added excellent tips in your comments. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Thanks for sharing, Cyndi! Great tips to move through the process of waiting AND during the actual interview! YES! Keep the excitement and enthusiasm!
I especially like #4! 🙂 Thanks for the tips Cindy, I have a few friends that are job searching and would find this useful.