The Importance of Feedback After an Interview and How to Ask for It

Interviews can feel overwhelming. After you leave the room or log off from a virtual call, you may find yourself reflecting on every word, gesture, and answer. Regardless of whether you get the job, one crucial step that many candidates tend to overlook is asking for feedback. Understanding what you did well and where you can improve is vital for your growth as a professional. Here’s why feedback is important and how to effectively ask for it after an interview.

Why Feedback Matters

• Continuous Improvement
  Feedback helps you identify your strengths and areas of improvement. Over time, applying constructive criticism can enhance your interview skills, making you a more confident and competitive candidate.
  
  
• Clarity on Skills
  Sometimes, you might be unaware of how you're perceived by hiring managers. Feedback provides an outside perspective, shedding light on specific skills or behaviors that stand out positively or need development.
  
  
• Professional Relationships
  Asking for feedback demonstrates a proactive attitude and willingness to grow. This can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer and keep doors open for future opportunities within the company.
  
  
• Boosts Self-Awareness
  Constructive feedback can help you recognize blind spots in your communication, technical abilities, or presentation style, which you can address in subsequent interviews.

How to Ask for Feedback After an Interview

• Express Gratitude First
  Before giving feedback, thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to interview. This sets a positive tone and shows professionalism.
  Example: "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me and discuss the [specific position] role. I greatly appreciate the opportunity."
  
  
• Be Specific in Your Request
  When asking for feedback, be clear about what you're looking for. Broad questions like "How did I do?" can lead to vague answers. Instead, ask targeted questions.
  Example: "I would love to hear your perspective on how I could improve my answers to behavioral questions."
  
  
• Choose the Right Timing
  If you’ve been informed of a positive or negative decision, that’s a good time to ask for feedback. If you haven’t received a response after a week or so, follow up politely and include a request for feedback.
  
  
• Keep It Short and Polite
  Hiring managers are often busy, so be concise in your requests and acknowledge their time constraints.
  Example: "If you have a moment, I’d appreciate any insights on my performance during the interview to help me improve in the future."
  
  
• Use Email or LinkedIn Thoughtfully
  Sending a polite email or a LinkedIn message is often the best way to request feedback. This allows the interviewer to respond at their convenience.
  
  

Sample Email Template for Requesting Feedback

Subject: Follow-Up and Feedback Request

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the [specific position] role at [Company Name]. I greatly enjoyed learning more about your team and your exciting work.

While I understand you’ve decided on the role, I would sincerely appreciate any feedback you could share about my interview. I am always looking to grow and improve, and your insights would be incredibly valuable as I continue my job search.

Thank you once again for your time and consideration. I wish you and your team all the best moving forward.

Kind regards,

[Your Full Name]

 

What to Do with the Feedback

• Stay Open-Minded
  Even if the feedback isn’t what you were hoping to hear, avoid taking it personally. Use it as a stepping stone for improvement.
  
  
• Take Notes
  Document the feedback so you can reflect on it later and incorporate changes into your preparation for future interviews.
  
  
• Show Gratitude Again
  Always thank the person who provides feedback. A simple thank-you email can go a long way in maintaining a positive connection.
  
  

Final Thoughts
Feedback is a powerful tool for growth, and seeking it shows your commitment to personal and professional development. By taking the initiative to request and apply feedback, you can transform every interview into a learning opportunity, regardless of the outcome. Remember, the key to success isn’t just about landing the job; it’s about becoming better with every experience.

So, the next time you finish an interview, take the extra step. Ask for feedback, embrace it, and watch yourself grow into the confident, capable professional you’re meant to be.

Visit our Careers page for more helpful tips or additional information about Assurant and to explore career opportunities with us.

 

 

 

 

 

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (November 8 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat