Why job interviews are like first dates: Learning the signs of a good one

In a recent blogpost, InterviewIQ's Karalyn Brown likened job interviews to first dates. She said that the interview game is "a bit like a rocky relationship", and revealed what the signs of a good interview are. Karalyn's blog had a great response, and she went on to write about when you should make a call post-interview.

Like in the dating game, learning the signs of a good interview is essential: Did it go well? Do they want to see you again? And when should you make a follow up call?

Why are job interviews like dates?

• Similar to dating, the interviewer will attempt to uncover what makes you tick.
• You forget about the time and so the date, or in this case interview, goes on for longer than expected.
• In dating, you might cover past relationships. In an interview, you will cover your referees and past business relationships.
• If the interview is going well, the interviewer may start referring to you by your shortened or nickname.
• If the interview went well, and you're considered a "good catch", the interviewer will contact you quickly following your interview.

How soon is too soon when it comes to making a follow up call?

Like many anxious females (and males!) you could be asking yourselves, what if you call the interviewer and it turns out they didn't like you? Do they want to see you again? And if you were set on getting that role, if it was your absolute dream job; could you deal with the rejection and loss?

Many people may resort to writing a quick email to thank the interviewer for their time, and to stress how keen they are to get the position. But like dating, making a follow up call is much more effective. Karalyn says that if you have been given a week timeframe, then "leave it a week and two days". According to Karalyn, "there is a lot of work that needs to happen after someone interviews you... There are often other candidates in the mix, discussions and dilemmas to be had and perhaps reference and security checks to organise". Like in dating, you need to give the interviewer time to consider how the interview went, and whether they want to make a follow up interview. The difference is that with recruitment, often companies must go through approval processes put forward by their HR department. Give them time to sort through the official paperwork and processes before you start hassling them for an answer.

There is always the risk that if you constantly call, email or contact the company by some other method you could just become "annoying". If this is the case, you won't get the "it's not you it's me" spiel, you'll get quite the reverse. But at least you can learn why it's you and how you can improve on your dating, or should I say interviewing, skills.

Increase your chances of call backs and second interviews! Learn the signs of the interview game. James Bond may be of master at dating, but you can become a master of interviewing!

[Sources: InterviewIQ June 2010 and Recruiter Daily June 2010]