Blog Post: Doug's Tough Love #2: Steer Clear of Stalker Territory

A job interview is like a first date.  Although the conversation can be awkward, folks are generally on their best behavior.  A successful first date means that both parties find the other interesting and attractive on some level.  The kicker here is that the attraction must be mutual and the follow through must be well thought-out.  Botch the follow-up on a date or a job interview and all sorts of mayhem may ensue.  So, before you end up as the antagonist in some recruiter's horror story, let's discuss some rules of the road.  

Let's start with what not to do.

1.  Don't blow up the recruiter's phone!  Persistence is admirable.  Stalking is creepy. 

2.  Don't call multiple times without leaving a message.  Recruiters have caller ID these day, you know.  I've heard stories of candidates calling and hanging up 50 times a day.  Don't be that guy!

3.  Don't get impatient.  Recruiters are multi-taksing gurus, but it can take a while for them to return calls and emails.  This is not because they're 
mean-spirited and rude.  It's because they're dealing with hundreds of other candidates just like you at any given time.  Never let your frustration show to the recruiter.  Don't shoot yourself in the foot, Barney Fife, by leaving a rude message.  

Here's a better plan.

1.  Leave one great phone message.  Tell the recruiter that you enjoyed the interview and that you're excited to learn more about the opportunity.  Ask about the next step, and affirm your willingness to answer any follow-up questions the company might have later.    

2.  Change your method of communication.  Don't beat your head against the wall.  If you can't get them on the the phone, send them an email or write a note instead.  

3.  Keep it cheery.  Recruiters want to know how you'll treat their customers, and they make assumptions about this based on how you behave during the interview process.  Stay cool under pressure and kill 'em with kindness.  Politeness and professionalism is the way to a recruiter's heart.  

Happy Hunting,

Doug