If you are still in the job search process, it is extremely important to follow up on all contacts. When you think you’ve already done your job because your contact information has already been delivered, it’s not a good idea to just sit back and wait for the results.
Consider two men applying for a major position in a company. After the interview, the first applicant waits to hear from their potential employer.
On the other hand, the second applicant distributes his contact information to some of the people he met at the company. In addition, applicant number two follows up on the job interview results a few days later. There has been no response from the first applicant, as he is only relying on a basic “we’ll call you” routine. Who do you think will be more likely to get the job?
Even if the first applicant is overqualified because he didn’t follow up or didn’t even send a thank you note to the interviewer, in the end, he doesn’t get the job.
If you’re still waiting for that job offer and you don’t follow up with your contacts, your chances of getting hired drop. In business, following up on all of your contacts is a sure way to expand your understanding of yourself, your business, and your horizons.
If you’re still looking for a job, here are some tips on how to follow your contacts:
*Send a thank you note right after the interview, ideally a few days later. This is one way to get the potential employer to hear from you again. Should you not be hired for the current position they offer, someone from that company will keep your information on file for future consideration.
* Make sure you leave your mobile and landline numbers, e-mail address and home address so that potential employers have no excuse not to contact you.
* Be precise in obtaining the contact information of prospective employers. In turn, when you put their information on a letter you send (ie resumes, thank you notes) avoid typographical errors and make sure your names are correct, to see that everything is in order.
*Some companies take a look at your character references to alert the people on your list that they receive a call from your potential employer.
*Always be on the positive side. Should you not be hired for a particular position, you can ask people in that company for referrals to other companies or at least keep you in mind for future hiring.
If you’re currently in business, whether you’re just starting out or in the midst of expansion, you also need to make sure to follow up on all-important contacts. For example, you go to a corporate event and you have distributed a lot of business cards. Don’t stop there. These people can ultimately bring big business to your company so building a strong business relationship with them is important.
Here are some tips for getting your contacts to follow you if you’re already in business:
* Send thank you notes to current and future customers. This rule does not apply only to people applying for jobs. This is very helpful for people who are already in business, as a simple thank you note will remind customers what company they are dealing with and your brand name will be etched on their mind. More business should come your way from this practice.
* Send follow up messages. If you’re in sales, it’s good to follow existing buyers who are most likely to buy your products again.
You may also want to personalize any correspondence you send as this gives customers the feeling that they know you personally. This will lead you to earn their trust, which in turn makes the customer feel secure that you are efficiently handling whatever business they come your way.
* Make sure you follow up fast and promptly. The rule of thumb is to answer fast, fast, fast. Whether it’s resolving a problem or sending an order or responding to a letter, providing prompt feedback to a customer is one of the easiest ways to get them to think positively about you and your company.
