Question:

Would it be appropriate to contact an employer who has chosen another candidate to ask what the determining factor was? I have a feeling that it may have been my salary history or age. I want to know if there is anything I can do to improve my chances with future opportunities.

First Answer:

I admire your determination and willingness to do whatever it takes to improve your chance with future employment opportunities. Although I don't feel it will do any harm to follow up with an employer that didn't hire you I am not sure of the benefits you will receive. If you can gather honest feedback it will of course help you down the road. My concern is that legally they cannot say that your age was a factor as that is discrimination.

To say that your salary was out of range would just open a negotiation battle a day late and a paycheck short. There are ways to work on these areas if you felt that might have played the role of deciding factor. Look on the internet and in the paper to see what the going salary rate for the job in question is paying in your city. Use that as a guide. If the offered salary is less than what you had previously earned, let the interviewer know that from your research you understand this is today's market rate.

Regarding your age, there are positives to be had from whether you are young or old - accentuate them. If you feel you are too young stress how you are willing to learn, grow, take directions and be mentored. If you are older, emphasize your ability to mentor, manage, lead, and provide stability and experience. Recognize the value you bring to the job and the company and feel confident in that. If you present yourself on an interview in a way that leaves them doubting whether to hire you they won't - doubt translates into an action of don't. Know the strengths you bring to them, be able to clearly articulate these strengths and the benefits they bring to the employer.

If you are still wondering, work with a professional coach who can guide you through the process easier and faster. I am offering a 20% discount on one month of coaching to anyone who mentions this article.

-- Janine A. Schindler, Professional Coach and owner of the Jas Coaching Company

Second Answer:

Absolutely! Always ask for feedback after a rejection. Just because you weren't right for this job doesn't mean you have to tuck your tail between your legs and scurry off. If it's not a case of discrimination, you may very well position yourself for another job opportunity with the company just by caring enough to follow up.

Contact all of the people with whom you interviewed politely, professionally, and non-defensively. Don't write e-mails or leave voicemails, try to get through to the decision-makers by phone. Explain that you're doing a meticulous job search and that you need constructive feedback so that you can improve your chances in the future. It doesn't mean you're always going to get an honest answer, but at least you gave it the old college try.

-- Tracy Laswell Williams, certified job and career transition coach, accredited resume writer and founder of CAREER-Magic.com

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