How to Find Out Why a Job Was Given to Another Candidate

Call the employer to find out why you didn't make the cut.

After all the research, preparation and hope you put into the job, you get the call that you didn't get the job. Use this as a learning experience to find out why. Perhaps a gap in your work experience was presented in a poor light or you didn't ask enough questions during the interview. Perhaps you need to get some more training in a specific area before you can land a position in the field. Talking to the HR manager or the interviewer is the key to learning why you didn't make the cut.

Instructions

1. Write a list of questions you'd like to ask the employer about the interview. Keep them specific to get the best feedback. Ask questions such as "What background or experiences would have helped me get the position?" "Was there anything during the interview I could have changed to have a better chance of getting the job?" or "Is there something in my background or interviewing skills that wasn't as good as the other candidates?"

2. Call the interviewer. Ask if you can arrange a time to discuss your interview briefly over the phone. Ensure the interviewer you won't take much of her time and that you would appreciate her thoughts.

3. Stay positive during your conversation with the interviewer. Smile, even if you're talking on the phone. Look at this as a learning experience and that you're getting some individual feedback from an employer. The fact that you called and asked for feedback about the interview can help you land a future position. You showed follow-through and courage in calling. In turn, the interviewer might recommend you to the employer as someone whose name she might pass along if another position opens up for one of her colleagues.

References

• Guardian Careers: Gazumped-What to Do When You Don't Get the Job
• DivineCaroline: When You Don't Get the Job-Seven Things to Do Next