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Recruiting is a process. Make sure that throughout the whole recruiting journey you are living by best practices and presenting yourself in the best manner possible. This will ensure that you keep lasting professional relationships with different firms and will even allow you to create a network throughout the process. Here are some general accepted guidelines to follow:
Arrive Early
Always plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to their scheduled interview time. If you are driving to a new location be sure to add even extra time for parking, checking into the front office, etc.
Be Prepared
Have a few copies of your most up to date resume handy – I suggest 3 to 4 just in case. Also be prepared with questions to ask your interviewers. This shows that you are inquisitive about the job and have done your research prior.
Get Contact Information
At the end of the interview, ask for a business card and if they don’t have one be sure to jot down their email and full name. Then you will be able to contact them after the interview is over in a thank you email.
Send a Thank You Note or Email
Employers are busy people – take a few moments to thank them for interviewing you and reexpress you interest in the job. Be sure to send the email no later than 48 hours after the interview!
Accepting a Job Offer
Accepting a job offer is a big and rewarding moment. Before signing your name on that dotted line be sure to consult with trusted family or a Career Services Advisor before contacting the employer.
Declining a Job Offer
Declining a job offer is totally okay, as long as you do it the right way. For those positions that you decline, you should speak with the employer and follow up with a professional letter communicating your appreciation for their offer, declining the offer graciously, and expressing the difficulty of making this decision. Thank the employer once again for their interest because you never know that this may also represent a networking opportunity for you in the future.
Interview Cancellation
Cancelling interviews is extremely frowned upon and can be unprofessional. Life happens sometimes and there are moments where rescheduling is necessary but be sure to have the proper, professional communication to reschedule the interview so that you ensure your integrity and professionalism as a young candidate.
