What do you do if you are making it to the final round of interviews, but not getting an offer? I often receive calls or emails from anxious job seekers who have made it to the final round of the interview process time and time again but are not getting the offer. Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. That can be so frustrating! And what’s worse, the only feedback you receive is “You were great! We just decided to move in another direction” Ugh!
What’s going wrong and how do you fix it? The truth of the matter is you may not be doing anything wrong. The final step of any job offer usually comes down to the chemistry between you and the executive conducting the final interview. If there is an internal candidate, the company will likely select that individual over an external candidate every time. Sadly, there isn’t anything you can do to change that phenomenon.
Here are a few ideas to help you take that final round of interviews to the next level.
Create a plan
Be proactive. Create a 30-60-90-day plan and present it to the executive as the final touch to your interview. It is a great way to showcase how you have given considerable thought to the role, the company, and that you are ready to get to work. The executive is sure to be impressed, and you’ll certainly make a lasting impression.
Check for mutual connections
Take a look at the LinkedIn profile of the hiring executive and see if you have any mutual connections. If the mutual connection is a peer/fellow executive of the interviewer, contact them and ask if they can give you some insights on the individual and if they would be willing to put in a good word for you.
Do your homework
Research the executive on LinkedIn and see if there are any commonalities that you share and mention these items casually in the interview. You’re more likely to be remembered for all the things you have in common.
Be thoughtful
Send a thank you note that includes a resource relevant to a problem the company is trying to solve. If you prove your usefulness before being hired, how much more afterward?
Never give up
Keep applying, keep interviewing. Your time will come, I promise!
Madelyn Mackie
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