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Too many times, candidates will leave an interview with the belief they’ve not only done all they can, but that “all they can” should be enough for an impressive job offer. Some even wager they’ll receive a phone call, complete with an offer, before they make it back home. Nothing could further from the truth, says A. Harrison Barnes, career coach and president of Hound.com. “Employers aren’t in any hurry to make a quick decision these days, regardless of whether or not any one candidate hits it out of the park”, says Barnes. Today, because there are many more candidates than there are jobs, employers are reveling in the shift. They’re being far more cautious because of the expense involved with hiring a new employee. So check your ego and don’t forget your manners.

Don’t call the interviewer!  Not when you arrive home and not the next day. It’s not the right path you should be taking if another holds your dream job in his hands. A. Harrison Barnes says it’s likely going to come across as frustrating and your efforts of asserting yourself will be anything but. Instead, compose a simple thank you card or letter for mailing. Some career counselors say email is acceptable while others say the effort snail mail requires speaks volumes. Trust your instinct, but remember to keep it short, professional and appropriate.

Another temptation you should resist is the urge to friend an interviewer on Facebook or follow him or her on Twitter. It just feels icky and puts them on the spot. It’s also a sure fire way to not receive a job offer and if you think it’s not that big of a deal, think again. It is.

Also, the Hound.com founder says a new trend is quickly becoming popular – but it’s as wrong as friending someone on Facebook. Many interviewers are receiving gifts the day after an interview. As one human resources manager for a cellular company said, “I know the job market’s tight and the candidates know there’s only one or two openings, but it’s inappropriate for them to send candy, flowers or even gift cards for the local Chinese restaurant. I can’t accept these gifts from vendors and I can’t accept them from anyone else if it’s work related”. This leaves your interviewer in an awkward position, says Barnes and it’s not going to work to your advantage.

Again, Barnes strongly cautions job seekers to keep their efforts to a minimum. A simple thank you card is sufficient; in fact, it’s the only thing you should do. Don’t knock yourself out of the running because you’re too aggressive in your efforts.

Take a deep breath, slow down and compose your thank you note that reiterates the high points of the time you spent together during the interview. If there was something you had in common, and you can eloquently bring it up, do so. Something like, “I thought I was the only one who still believes ABC Team has a shot at the title this year. It’s great meeting the only other person on the planet who thinks so, too” is just the right personal touch.

Didn’t get the job?  Chalk it up to an experience that improved your interviewing skills and move on.

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