After You Hit ‘Send’

What if you sent out résumés and the phone doesn’t ring, the in box doesn’t ping and the mailbox remains empty? It’s a very common experience in the 2011 job-searching scene. The ratio of interviews to résumé submission is remarkably low – perhaps five interviews for 100 résumés. Most jobseekers just sigh and forget about that job of their dreams. Nonetheless, don’t just send your résumé and forget it. I recommend following up with each résumé sent. “What good could that do?” I have been asked. Employers are more likely to interview those who follow up. Those in hiring authority say follow-up demonstrates interest and makes the person stand out. Follow-up will give you some input on your status with each job. Follow-up following a submitted résumé should either be by email, phone call or letter, in that order. Follow these guidelines to make follow-up effective: • Keep the conversation brief and scripted. • Maintain detailed records of your contact with the employer. • Contact the hiring authority ten days to two weeks after submitting your résumé. • Include a thank-you for the opportunity as part of your contact. • Make the person answering the phone your ally. • Be realistic. Expect a significant amount of rejection. – Bob Lankard

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