Should You Connect With Your Interviewer on LinkedIn?

In today’s professional world, networking is essential, and LinkedIn stands at the forefront of this virtual space. When it comes to job interviews, connecting with your interviewer on LinkedIn can be a bit of a gray area. Is it a savvy move to solidify your connection, or could it come off as presumptuous? In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of reaching out to your interviewers on

Understanding the Purpose of LinkedIn Connections

Before diving into the specifics of connecting with your interviewer, it’s crucial to understand the primary purpose of LinkedIn and why connecting matters. LinkedIn is more than just a digital resume; it’s a powerful networking tool that fosters professional relationships. Here’s what you should know:

Professional Networking: LinkedIn is designed to create and maintain professional relationships. Connecting with colleagues, mentors, and industry leaders can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and valuable insights.
Visibility and Credibility: Each connection enhances your profile's visibility, making it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to find and vet candidates. A strong network can lend credibility to your professional reputation.
Sharing Knowledge: LinkedIn is a platform where professionals share articles, engage in discussions, and post updates. Connecting with others allows you to access a wealth of resources and knowledge that can help you in your career.
Job Opportunities: Recruiters often search for candidates via LinkedIn connections. The larger and more relevant your network, the higher your chances of being approached for interesting opportunities.

Now, let’s dig a little deeper into the rationale behind connecting with someone, particularly an interviewer:

1. Follow-up Opportunity: Connecting on LinkedIn can be a fantastic follow-up after an interview. It allows you to thank the interviewer for their time, express your enthusiasm for the position, and keep the conversation going without the pressure of an email or phone call.

2. Stay Informed: Connecting with your interviewer enables you to stay updated on their professional journey and their company’s developments. This information can be helpful for future interviews or networking opportunities.

3. Cultural Fit Assessment: By following your interviewer on LinkedIn, you can gauge their interests, company values, and overall work culture, giving you insight into whether the organization is the right fit for you.

4. Professional Development: Many professionals share articles, opinions, and industry news on LinkedIn. Engaging with the content shared by your interviewer can provide valuable insights and even spark conversations in future meetings.

While it’s beneficial to connect with your interviewer, it’s essential to approach this action thoughtfully. Consider the following:

Timing Is Key: Wait until after the interview, preferably after you've received feedback or results. Jumping the gun may come off as unprofessional.
Customize Your Connection Request: Always include a brief message expressing why you want to connect. Personalize it by referencing something specific from your interview.
Be Mindful of Boundaries: Not everyone may be open to new connections immediately after an interview, so be respectful of their preferences.

In conclusion, understanding the purpose of LinkedIn connections sheds light on how they can benefit your professional networking. It’s an arena for building relationships that can enhance your career journey. As you navigate the intricate waters of interview follow-ups, consider whether connecting with your interviewer aligns with your professional goals and the relationship you hope to build.

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3. Benefits of Connecting with Your Interviewer

Connecting with your interviewer on LinkedIn can seem like a bold move, and it certainly has its perks! Here’s why you might want to hit that “connect” button:

Establishing Rapport: When you connect on LinkedIn, you’re taking a step to build a relationship. It shows that you value the conversation you had and are interested in staying in touch. This rapport can work wonders, especially if the hiring decision is close.
Staying Informed: Once you’re connected, you can keep up with the interviewer’s professional updates. This can give you insights into the company culture and any changes within the organization, which might be useful for future interviews or networking opportunities.
Showcasing Your Professional Profile: A LinkedIn connection allows your interviewer to view your profile, enhancing your professional image. Make sure your profile is polished and highlights your accomplishments, skills, and interests.
Networking Opportunities: By connecting with your interviewer, you may open doors to their network. This could lead to introductions to other professionals or even future job opportunities down the line.
Feedback on the Interview: Sometimes, a connection can result in valuable feedback about your interview performance. They may share insights or constructive criticism that could help you in future interviews.

The benefits can be significant, especially in a competitive job market. Just remember, while connecting can be beneficial, it's essential to approach it thoughtfully.

4. Potential Risks and Considerations

While the benefits of connecting with your interviewer on LinkedIn are enticing, there are also potential risks and considerations that you should keep in mind:

Overstepping Professional Boundaries: Not all interviewers appreciate LinkedIn connections, especially if they haven’t demonstrated such interest in the past. It could come off as too forward or presumptuous.
Perceived Desperation: Connecting can sometimes be seen as a sign of desperation. If your connection request comes too quickly after the interview, it may give the impression that you're anxious about the outcome, which could be a turn-off.
Privacy Concerns: Remember that LinkedIn is a public platform. When you connect, you may share more of your professional life than you intended. Be mindful of your privacy settings and the information you share.
Misunderstandings: Depending on how your connection request is received, it could lead to misunderstandings. They might perceive your request as a step to seek favoritism rather than genuine interest.
Complicating Future Interactions: If you don’t end up getting the job, connecting might add an awkward layer to future interactions with that person. It could lead to uncomfortable situations if the connection is not mutually beneficial.

In conclusion, while connecting with your interviewer on LinkedIn can offer numerous advantages, it’s crucial to weigh the potential risks. Consider the context of your interview and the dynamics of your conversation before making your move. When in doubt, a simple thank-you note may be a safer first step!

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5. When to Send a Connection Request

Understanding the right timing for sending a connection request on LinkedIn can make a significant difference in your networking success. You want to ensure that your request feels relevant and timely. Here are a few key moments to consider:

Right After the Interview: Sending a connection request shortly after your interview is often a good idea. It shows your enthusiasm for the position and establishes a connection while the conversation is still fresh in your interviewer’s mind.
After Receiving Feedback: If you’ve received feedback post-interview, whether positive or negative, it’s an appropriate moment to connect. Thank them for their insights and express your continued interest in the company.
During Company Events: If you happen to interact with your interviewer at company events or networking gatherings, that’s an excellent opportunity to send a connection request. Just be sure to reference your previous interaction in the message.
If You’ve Followed Up: Following up on your interview shows that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the position. If you’ve sent a thank-you email or a follow-up regarding your application, this moment is also suitable for sending a connection request on LinkedIn.
When They Post Relevant Content: If your interviewer posts something insightful that resonates with you, comment on their post and then send a connection request. Mentioning the post in your request can help jog their memory about you.

In summary, timing is everything when it comes to sending a LinkedIn connection request. Aim for moments that feel natural and relevant, and your chances of building a meaningful connection increase significantly.

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6. How to Approach the Connection Request

Now that you know when to send a connection request, let’s talk about how to do it effectively. A well-crafted connection request can set the tone for your future interactions. Here’s how to approach it:

Personalize Your Message: Avoid the default connection request message! Including a personalized note can make a significant difference. Mention where you met—the interview—and any specific points you discussed that stood out to you. For example:

“Hi [Interviewer’s Name], I really enjoyed our conversation during my interview for the [Job Title] position. I appreciated your insights on [specific topic discussed]. I’d love to connect and stay updated on the company's developments!”

Be Brief and Clear: Keep your message short and to the point. Your interviewer is likely busy, so a concise note is more likely to be read and appreciated. Aim for a few sentences that capture your enthusiasm and intention to connect.
Show Genuine Interest: Make it clear that you’re interested not only in the position but also in the organization and its values. This can help you stand out as a candidate who’s not just looking for a job, but also eager to build relationships within the industry.
Follow Up, If Necessary: If you don’t hear back right away, don’t hesitate to follow up in a polite manner after a week or two. A simple message reiterating your interest can do wonders, but keep it friendly and unobtrusive.
Be Respectful: Remember that not every interviewer may want to connect on LinkedIn. If they don’t accept your request, don’t take it personally. Maintain professionalism and respect their boundaries.

In conclusion, approaching a LinkedIn connection request with thoughtfulness and personalization can open doors for future conversations and potential opportunities. Just remember to be yourself, stay genuine, and let your enthusiasm shine through!

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7. Alternative Ways to Stay Connected After the Interview

So, you just had that big interview—congratulations! Now, you might be wondering how to keep the conversation going without overstepping any boundaries. Staying connected after an interview is not just about hitting 'connect' on LinkedIn; there are several creative ways to maintain that professional relationship. Here are a few options that can help you stay on your interviewer's radar:

Follow up with a thank-you email: A sincere thank-you note can go a long way. After your interview, take a few moments to craft a personalized message expressing your appreciation for their time and insights. Mention something specific you discussed during the interview to make it memorable!
Engage with their content: If your interviewer shares articles or posts, take the time to engage with their content. Comment on their posts thoughtfully or share them with your network. This shows you're not just interested in a job but genuinely engaged with their professional contributions.
Share relevant articles or resources: If you come across an article or resource that aligns with what your interviewer discussed (or the company’s goals), don’t hesitate to send it their way. A quick note saying, “I thought you might find this interesting!” can spark another conversation.
Set a reminder for future contacts: Use tools like CRM apps or even a calendar reminder to follow up with your interviewer after a few months. This could be a simple “Hope all is well! I came across this recent development in the industry and thought of you!”
Ask for an informational chat: If you really connected during the interview, consider asking for a brief informational chat later on. This can be after a few weeks or months to stay updated on the company or seek advice about career growth.

These strategies not only keep the lines of communication open, but they also allow you to build a genuine relationship that can benefit both you and your interviewer in the long run. Just remember to keep it professional and friendly, without turning into a pest!

8. Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Now that we've explored the various aspects of connecting with your interviewer on LinkedIn, it's time to reflect and make an informed decision. Whether or not you choose to send that LinkedIn connection request can depend on several factors:

Your rapport: Did you feel a genuine connection during the interview? If the conversation was warm and engaging, a LinkedIn connection could enhance that budding relationship.
The company culture: Consider what you know about the company's environment. If they value connection and open communication, reaching out may be welcomed.
Interviewer's stance: Think back to any cues the interviewer gave during the meeting. Were they open to future contact, or do they seem more reserved? Trust your gut!
Your intention: Reflect on why you want to connect. Are you interested in future opportunities, seeking mentorship, or simply looking to grow your network? Clear intentions can help guide your actions.
Follow-up preference: Lastly, consider the outcomes of your interview process. If you're still in the running, connecting on LinkedIn might be best left until after a final decision is made.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. Just ensure that whatever decision you make aligns with your professional values and the norms of the industry you’re in. Remember, in the end, cultivating a network is about mutual respect and genuine interest. So whether you connect or choose to follow a different path, keep building those relationships! Who knows where your professional journey might take you next?