Positive feedback

Dear Oracle

What's the protocol if I want to ask for feedback after applications or interviews?

The Oracle replies

Most firms give feedback to candidates who have been unsuccessful at interview, but to get it you need to approach them in the right way. Whatever you do, don't try to convince recruiters that failing to hire you was a big mistake - accept their decision and try to learn from the experience. 

Usually you would call or email the person responsible for graduate recruitment to ask for feedback - some give it over the phone, others via email. One of our Meet the Recruiter questions asks whether the firm provides feedback, so check the section to find out if the firm you interviewed with does and what the protocol is.

When you get it, make sure you are polite and grateful for the person's time and that you take on board what they say. For example, if the recruiter said that you came across as commercially uninformed, make sure you get to grips with the commercial aspects of the firms you are applying to - research their recent deals, read our Burning Question section and keeping abreast of legal and business news.

Firms receive thousands of applications, so it's unusual for them to provide feedback to those who didn't even get an interview. One way to assess the quality of your application form is to take a copy of it to a careers adviser or someone at your university or law school to ask for pointers on where you're making mistakes.