Reflection on the Interview
After the interview, it is helpful to reflect on the conversation’s course. Applicants should ask themselves which parts of the interview went particularly well and where there is potential for improvement. This includes analyzing their responses: Were the questions answered clearly and structured? Was personal motivation convincingly presented? This reflection helps to be more confident and better prepared for future interviews.
Sending a Thank You Email
A short, polite thank you email to the interviewers is common practice after a personal interview. In this email, applicants should express gratitude for the discussion and the opportunity to introduce themselves. It is also wise to reaffirm one’s interest in the vocational training (Ausbildung) position. A thank you email should be sent no later than one to two days after the interview to keep the contact alive. A formal yet friendly tone is appropriate.
Waiting for Feedback
After the interview, the waiting period for feedback from the company usually begins. Often, there will be an indication during the interview of when a decision can be expected. If this timeframe passes, it is entirely legitimate to politely inquire. A follow-up email can be sent after about two weeks if no response has been received. It is crucial to maintain a professional and patient tone during this process.
Preparing for Follow-Up Questions
It may happen that the company has additional questions or needs further information after the interview. Applicants should be prepared for such follow-ups and ensure they can provide all necessary documents, such as certificates or references, quickly and completely. In this phase, it is also important to remain polite and professional.
Checking Alternatives in the Meantime
While waiting for feedback, it is advisable to continue looking for other vocational training (Ausbildung) positions. Even if the interview went well, it is sensible to explore multiple options and send out additional applications. This increases the chances of securing a position and ensures that the applicant is not solely waiting for one answer.
Gathering Feedback
If the application is rejected, it is helpful to politely ask for feedback. Companies do not always provide reasons for rejection voluntarily, but a courteous request can yield valuable insights that are useful for future applications. Feedback should always be seen as an opportunity for improvement rather than criticism.
Networking After the Interview
After a personal job interview, maintaining contacts with interviewers can be beneficial, even if the vocational training (Ausbildung) position does not materialize immediately. Connections can be made through networks like LinkedIn to stay in the minds of the contacts for future job openings or opportunities within the company. A courteous and professional demeanor is essential in this context.
Emotional Processing
After an intense job interview, it is normal to engage emotionally with the outcome of the discussion. Applicants should recognize that not every interview has to result in an offer and that a rejection is often not a personal matter. Both positive and negative experiences from the interview should be leveraged for personal development and to improve future applications.
Ensuring Professional Availability
After the personal interview, applicants should ensure that they are easily reachable for potential feedback. This includes regularly checking emails and calls. It is important to use a professional voicemail message and a formal email signature if the employer attempts to reach out.
Preparing for a Possible Second Interview
In some cases, a second interview is arranged after the first personal meeting. This often serves to clarify any outstanding questions or to gather further details about the potential apprentice. Applicants should prepare well for such a follow-up interview by reflecting on the topics discussed in the first interview and considering which questions may arise. It can be helpful to critically assess oneself and specifically work on any weaknesses identified during the first discussion.