If you don’t get feedback straight away after applying for jobs, you can be left feeling a little disheartened. You may start to question yourself over time, wondering just what it is about your application technique that isn’t getting through to employers. However, before you start second-guessing what the interviewer is thinking – it’s best to request feedback.
Feedback is useful for you to understand how an interviewer perceives you as a candidate. This can give you an insight into how you can change and tweak your interview skills to become better in the future.

Here are 5 tips on asking for feedback after an interview:

Don’t Chase Too Soon

The likelihood is that you are one of many job applicants who went for an interview. This means that the employer has a lot to get through to give feedback to every single person. If you’ve not heard back within a week or two, then it’s safe to assume you didn’t get the job.
However, every company has their own interviewing process. Some may even provide them with a timeframe as to when you should expect to hear back from them. A solicitors firm, for example, may have a more thorough interview process than a café looking for part-time staff. Once a sufficient amount of time has passed, you then have the opportunity to get back in touch and ask for interview feedback.

Email or Call?

Once you feel ready to request feedback, you must then think about your preferred method. A structured email from the interviewer may not feel personal enough, and it may come across as though they’ve simply copy and pasted the same feedback to a number of applicants. That’s why a phone call is often better, although it may be difficult to get in touch with the person who interviewed you if they’re busy, it’s worth asking if this might be possible.
The general rule of thumb is to ask for feedback in the same way that you applied for the job, so if you called up about a job position – then this may be the best way to enquire about feedback. Similarly, an email may be best for applicants who applied online.

Preparing for the Answer

As soon as you’ve asked the question, you must brace yourself for the response. Nobody likes criticism, but constructive criticism will help you move forward. The feedback will mainly focus on your skills and shouldn’t criticize you as a person, so try not to take it personally. This helpful advice will set you in good stead for any other interviews you have lined up. Remember, you may also be receiving good news! Just try to manage your expectations.

Burn no Bridges

It can be easy to turn to self-defence mode when it appears as though someone is insulting the way in which you conduct yourself. Keep things calm and professional. Think of it more as an exercise for gathering information for future job applications.
They have already made their decision, and there’s very little you can do to change this, on this occasion. Arguing with the employer will only reflect badly on you and could give you a bad reputation within your chosen field. In time, they may bear you in mind for future job opportunities or you might like to apply for the role a 2nd time, so don’t burn bridges.

Moving Forward After Receiving Feedback

Don’t lose confidence if you get a job rejection, simply dust yourself off and move on. Now you’ve received feedback from the interview, you can work with it to change the way you present yourself going forward!

Natalie Wilson is a freelance writer for many different business publications. With a range of knowledge in the business and insurance sector, she is an avid researcher and writer in the field. Having worked with a number of different businesses, including different Manchester solicitors, Natalie is now a freelance writer looking to specialise in the topic. You can connect with her on Twitter @NatWilson976.