Make Notes After Every Meeting

After every meeting during your job search, you should immediately write down what occurred. Make sure you have a pen and pad with you to do this. Better yet, prepare a form ahead of time with the information that you want to capture. Do this as soon as possible after the meeting. In the parking lot before you drive away or at a convenient place to stop nearby is best.

The importance of doing this is threefold. First, it will help you develop more effective follow-up letters. Second, it will improve your meeting skills. Third, it will place you more in control of what happens next.

The items you should make note of include:

1. The name of the person you met with. Make sure you have the correct spelling and job title. Also describe any thoughts you have about that person.
2. The company name. Again, be sure you have the correct spelling, address, division, department, etc.
3. Note the date and time of the meeting and how long it lasted.
4. Record any observations you made about where the meeting was held and the conditions under which it progressed.
5. State what your objectives were and your perceived objectives of the person you met.
6. What are some of the important things that the person said? These might include criticism, advice, ideas, names, problems, needs, plans, job descriptions, “hot buttons”, areas of special interest, closing remarks, etc.
7. Make note of what you said. Include the reactions of the other person to your remarks. What information did you begin with? What additional information did you volunteer? What did you emphasize about your background and experience? How did you answer the questions that were asked? Did you sense any sensitive areas?
8. If the person you met provided referrals, you should have written them down during the meeting. If so, transcribe them onto this page to make following up easier.

Be as specific as possible when making these notes.

Michael Britner
Job Finding Master