Asking for the job is a crucial step in the job search process, yet many job candidates hesitate or avoid doing it altogether. This is a missed opportunity to show interest and enthusiasm for the position, and potentially secure the job.
The Importance of Asking for the Job
Asking for the job is crucial in the job search process because it shows the employer that you are genuinely interested in the position. It also gives you an opportunity to clarify any doubts or concerns the employer may have about your qualifications or fit for the role. Additionally, asking for the job demonstrates confidence and initiative, which are qualities that many employers value.
Common Excuses for Not Asking for the Job
I have heard all the excuses that job candidates use for not asking for the job, such as:
- “Well, we ran out of time…”
- “Well, it just didn’t seem appropriate…”
- “Well, he was in a hurry…”
- “Well, he said he had to go…”
- “Well, she said she had to get on another video call…”
- “Well, we were on a different topic…”
- “Well, we were talking about personal stuff…”
- “Well, we got off topic…”
Firstly, running out of time or being in a hurry is not a valid excuse because asking for the job does not take a lot of time.
It can be as simple as asking the interviewer if they see you as a good fit for the role or what you can do to improve your chances of getting the job.
Secondly, feeling it’s inappropriate is not a valid excuse either because asking for the job is a natural and expected part of the job search process.
Employers want to know that you are interested in the position and willing to take the initiative to secure it.
Thirdly, getting off topic or discussing personal matters is also not a valid excuse for not asking for the job.
While it’s important to build rapport with the interviewer, it’s equally important to express your interest in the position and clarify any doubts or concerns they may have about your qualifications
Overcome Excuses with The Courage to Ask
I could go on and on, but these are the kind of ridiculously insane, unfortunate excuses that I get from candidates when I asked them, “did you ask for the job?” To increase your chances of getting the job, it’s important to ask for it with confidence and enthusiasm.
One candidate of mine who is a very experienced sales guy, when I asked him if he asked for the job, he said “I told them I wanted the job.” That’s not the same thing as asking for the job.
Here is the truth. Most people can’t muster up the courage to say, “Are you going to recommend me for the job?” And “what I need to do to get the job?” or “Are you going to hire me?” Phrasing questions that demonstrate your skills and interest can set you apart from other candidates.
Look, I know this takes guts, but most employers will absolutely totally respect a candidate who asks. I can’t tell you the number of candidates over the years that have gotten hired simply because they asked these questions.
I know it takes courage, but once you get in the habit of doing it it’s also very simple. Avoid using common excuses for not asking for the job and overcome your fears to take the crucial step of asking for the job directly, doing so will increase your chances of getting the job.
