Waiting to Hear Back From A Hospitality Interview? Here Are Some Dos and Don’ts

You put together a polished resume, you applied for an opportunity with an exciting employer, and you nailed the interview. Now comes the hardest part: waiting to hear back from the company. Whether the next step is another interview or a job offer, many candidates are unsure of what to do with themselves while they wait. Though every interview process is unique, here are a few best practices to stay level-headed and set yourself up for success.

Don’t Sit Idle

The anticipation after an interview can be anxiety-inducing, especially if you are not currently employed. The last thing you should do is sit around twiddling your thumbs. Continue working towards previous job-search goals, professional development, and networking to keep your momentum going.

Do Send a Thank You

A simple thank you note can make a big impression. Thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate how excited you are for the chance to work for the company. Make sure the interviewer receives it as soon as possible and opt for an email, overnight mail, or even hand deliver it. Tiny details like this can catapult you to the top of the list of potential hires.

Don’t Be Overly Aggressive

While hiring managers love to see enthusiasm and tenacity in a candidate, be mindful of filling up their inboxes and voicemails. Constantly harassing them for feedback or emphasizing your qualifications can be off-putting. A quick follow-up for an update is fine if you have not heard anything in a week or two, but make sure you are polite and respectful of their time.

Do Keep Researching

Even if you have already done some homework on the company, keep going! Use any new information you gained about the opportunity during the interview, and build on that. Get to know their competition and surrounding areas as well. You will be ready to impress not just in the next interview, but your first day on the job.

Don’t Put in your two weeks yet

Even if you felt like you aced the interview, take things one step at a time. You may feel obligated to give your current employer plenty of warning before leaving, don’t jeopardize your current work situation by jumping the gun and packing up your desk before you have an offer in hand.

Do Line Up Your References

Check that you have the most up-to-date contact information for your professional references. If they are not already aware of your new job search, let them know so they can expect a call.

Don’t Forget About Your Voicemail

You are probably checking your phone constantly, but make sure your voicemail is set up properly just in case. Record a professional greeting, ensure that the voicemail is not full, and is able to take more messages.

Do Stay Positive

Schedules can be chaotic in the hospitality industry, so a lapse in time between steps in the interview process does not necessarily mean you are out of consideration. Hiring authorities may still be lining up other interviews or coordinating a time to review candidates with other decision-makers.

The application process can be daunting but having guidance can help. Our recruiters can give valuable insight throughout the process and make sure you are ready for each step of their application process. Take the next step in your hospitality career and check out all opportunities through Horizon Hospitality here.