Q&A: Is it OK to ask for interview feedback?

March 6, 2013

Q&A: Is it OK to ask for interview feedback?

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By Marie G. McIntyre / McClatchy-Tribune News Service

Q: I recently completed a lengthy interview process for a general manager position. The first two interviews were with the owners of the company, followed by individual meetings with several mid-level managers. Next, I had a group interview with nine front-line supervisors.

Unfortunately, I just learned that I will not be getting the job. I am extremely disappointed and would like to know how I might have improved my interview performance. Since I established good rapport with some of the interviewers, would it be appropriate to email them and request some feedback?

A: Qualified applicants can be eliminated for many reasons unrelated to their interview skills. Nevertheless, assessing your own performance is always a good idea. Asking interviewers for feedback should be fine, as long as you make your request positive, professional, and brief.

For example: "I enjoyed meeting you during my interviews for the general manager position. Although I was not selected, I hope that I might be considered for other openings in the future. For that reason, I am interested in any feedback you might have on how I could be a stronger candidate."

If you receive a reply, be sure to express your appreciation. But if not, just let it go, because a second email might make you seem pushy.

Submit questions for workplace coach Marie G. McIntyre at yourofficecoach.com.