A job interview didn’t go as planned—now what? Many candidates feel discouraged after a bad interview, but the good news is that one misstep doesn’t mean you’re out of the running. In fact, 44% of hiring managers say they have extended offers to candidates who initially stumbled but later showed improvement, according to a study by TopResume.
With the right approach, you can still turn things around. Here’s how to assess what went wrong, craft a professional follow-up email, and regain a hiring manager’s confidence.
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Assess What Went Wrong
Before jumping into damage control, take a moment to reflect on the interview. Consider:
- Did you struggle with a specific question? Write down how you could have answered it better.
- Were you unprepared for certain aspects? Identify gaps in your research about the company or role.
- Did nerves get the best of you? Recognizing this can help you develop strategies to stay calm in future interviews.
Understanding what went wrong will help you focus on areas of improvement and correct any missteps.
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Send a Thoughtful Follow-Up Email
A well-crafted follow-up email can help repair any damage from a rough interview. Here’s what to include:
- Thank the interviewer for their time and express enthusiasm for the role.
- Clarify any miscommunications or expand on an answer where you may have fallen short.
- Reiterate your key strengths and how they align with the company’s needs.
- Showcase self-awareness by briefly acknowledging any weaknesses and expressing your commitment to improvement.
For example:
Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity – [Your Name]
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
I appreciate the opportunity to interview for [Job Title] at [Company Name] and enjoyed learning more about the role and your team.
I wanted to clarify my response to [specific question]. In hindsight, I realize I could have elaborated on my experience with [relevant skill]. I am confident that my background in [related experience] would allow me to contribute effectively in this role.
Thank you again for your time, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team.
Best, [Your Name]
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Reinforce Your Strengths
If you sense that your interview performance was weak in certain areas, find ways to reinforce your qualifications outside of the interview itself.
- Provide additional work samples or a portfolio that demonstrates relevant skills.
- Request a connection on LinkedIn with the hiring manager and engage with company content.
- If applicable, ask for a second chance interview or offer to complete a skills-based assignment to demonstrate your abilities.
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Prepare for Future Opportunities
Even if this job doesn’t work out, use the experience to strengthen your interview skills for the future. Consider:
- Practicing common interview questions and answers.
- Recording yourself to analyze your tone and body language.
- Seeking feedback from a mentor or career coach.
Find Your Next Opportunity with ProSource Staffing
If a job interview doesn’t go as planned, don’t lose hope. The right opportunity is still out there! ProSource Staffing can connect you with top employers who value your skills and experience. Explore job openings today and take the next step in your career.