When the interview ends and after the interview

Before you leave the interview room ask yourself whether you have adequately conveyed to the interviewer your suitability for the job, your enthusiasm and the extent of your relevant skills base. Have you learnt everything about the job's role that you need to know? Do you know when you will be contacted as to their decision; will they telephone, e-mail or write?

When you are satisfied that you have done everything you can to get the job (short of offering sexual favors), make to leave. The interviewer if not too busy will probably walk you to the exit or lift. Shake their hand firmly, make direct eye contact, thank them for their time and say good-bye.

Now run as fast as you can from the building leaving a trail of dust in your wake - do not forget to hand your visitor pass in at the reception.

But seriously, while the interview is fresh in your mind scribble down some brief notes, document aspects that you thought went well and those that went badly. Were there some questions that you couldn't answer? Make some notes about the offices, and the work environment, if you are offered the job you could refer to these and jog your memory as to whether you liked the place and why.

Now unwind, forget the interview, go home, go to the pub, meet friends, you should treat yourself to a relaxing night.

The next day telephone the interviewer and thank them for seeing you. Make that call within 24 hours. This may be your last chance to demonstrate to the employer how your skills fit with their needs. Alternatively write a brief thank you letter in which you should reaffirm what you can do for their company. An e-mail thank you is ok, but not as good.

While you are waiting for a response from the company you should be applying for more positions. Do not let everything hang on this one job, it is best to have a couple of others on the go at the same time. It is a satisfying position to be in if you end up with several offers and are in a position to choose between them.

If you have not heard from the company after a couple of days telephone their offices, speak directly to the interviewer if possible and inquire whether they have come to a decision yet.

Before you accept a position, consider fully the following factors

• The wage being offered, is it more than you are currently getting? Is it enough for you to live on in the style to which you are accustomed?
• Location of the offices, is there a need for extensive commuting each day?
• New colleagues, do you think you will get on well with the people at the new company, at work and socially?
• Does the company have a pleasant work environment, is there a subsidized canteen, gym etc.
• Bonuses and perks
• Pension plans, health care
• Is the new company happy with you postponing commencement of work with them until you have fulfilled the notice period requirements at your current place of work?

If you didn't get the job, find out where you went wrong by telephoning the company and asking them directly "please could you tell me why I failed to get the job". This information may be useful for your next interview when you will know not to make the same mistake again. Do not be disheartened, continue applying for jobs and attending interviews, you will succeed.