6 Chapter 5: Following up on Job Applications
Chapter 5 Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
- Understand what is required after an interview
- Recognize common job search messages and explain when to use each message
- Prepare for job offer negotiation by understanding perks and benefits
Priming the Mind:
Beginning of class pre-write or pre-discussion questions
5.1 How do you know if an interview went well or not?
5.2 What should you consider if you get a job offer?
5.3 How do you evaluate if a job offer is “good” or not?
5.1 After the Interview
- After an interview, take these steps to demonstrate courtesy and improve future performance:
- Evaluate and Reflect: Review your interview performance, noting strengths and areas for improvement.
- Ask for Feedback: Politely request feedback from the interviewer to enhance future interviews.
- Send a Thank You Letter: Express gratitude, reiterate interest in the position, and provide additional information if requested.
- An example of a generic thank you letter is provided in the textbook.
Activity
After conducting a mock interview with a classmate of career services, have students write a thank-you letter to their interviewer.
5.2 Job Offer Inquire and Response
- Following Up on a Job Application: If you haven’t heard back from an employer after the expected timeframe, send a polite inquiry email to follow up on the status of your application.
- Accepting a Job Offer: Upon receiving a job offer, respond promptly with a formal acceptance letter. Include details such as job title, salary, benefits, and start date.
- Declining a Job Offer: If you receive multiple job offers, politely decline the ones you won’t accept with a written letter. Briefly explain your decision and thank the employer for the opportunity.
- Sample messages provided in the textbook.
5.3 Negotiating Job Offers, Perks and Benefits
- Don’t rush to accept a job offer but evaluate the total package/total compensation offered.
- Carefully evaluate the entire compensation package, including salary, benefits, and other perks.
- Understanding all components of the offer helps you make informed decisions. Negotiate to get the best deal possible.
- For additional resources on salary, benefits, and negotiation, check out the websites included in the text.
Activity
Have students try out sample conversation prompts with GenAI to practice salary negotiation.
Here are some prompts to get them started:
https://www.beyonddiscoverycoaching.com/blog/chatgpt-and-salary-negotiation-prompts-to-help-you-get-the-best-possible-compensation-package
