How to Ask for Feedback After an Interview (and Actually Use It)

Interview feedback can be one of the most valuable tools for improving your chances of landing your next role. Whether you receive an offer or not, knowing what went well and what could be improved gives you something to build on.

We asked our team of experts for their best advice on how to ask for feedback post-interview and put it into practise.

Rather than waiting weeks, ask for feedback once you've received an update on the outcome of your interview.

Sarah recommends asking "as soon as possible. Within a day or two max unless the client has provided a reason for a delay."

Sean agrees, suggesting candidates ask when they're told the outcome of the process. "If you're not successful, then ask, 'What could I have improved?'"

There's no need to overcomplicate your request. Keep it polite, genuine and focused on improving for next time.

"Don't worry about sounding pushy, just ask directly," says Sarah. "There should be an expectation that feedback is provided so it's not unreasonable to request it promptly."

Luke suggests letting the employer know you're keen to learn. "Express your eagerness in the position and that feedback would help you prepare for any future interviews you might have."

If you're not sure what to ask, Luke recommends questions like:

• What were the strongest parts of my interview?

• How does my experience compare to the successful applicant?

• What would you suggest I do to improve my chances for a similar position in the future?

• Did you find I spoke clearly and answer all questions appropriately?

  
  

Receiving constructive feedback isn't always easy, but how you respond matters.

"Interviewing is a skill that many don't practise often," says Sarah. "Think of feedback as an opportunity to improve your skills."

One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is arguing with the feedback.

"Getting defensive is the worst thing you can do," says Sean. "It's not an attack on you, you need to remember that not everyone is suited to every role or client."

Sarah adds that arguing "does not improve your position and demonstrates inability to take feedback across the board."

The value of feedback comes from using it to improve your approach for the next opportunity.

"If an interview answer lacked, they can think of better examples or how to rephrase their original answer," Sarah explains.

Luke recommends approaching the process with the right mindset. "Remain positive and seem genuine with trying to gain feedback on how to improve," he says.

Asking relevant questions during the feedback process can help identify specific areas to work on, rather than leaving candidates with general advice. "Asking relevant questions will best help you prepare for future interviews," Luke adds.

Whether it's improving how you structure your answers, preparing stronger examples, or refining how you communicate your experience, specific feedback gives you something practical to focus on before your next interview.

Unfortunately, not every employer provides detailed feedback.

Sean's advice is simple: "Don't dwell on it. It's not personal. You may have been great, but there could have been someone more suited to the role."

If the feedback is vague, Luke suggests sending a follow-up email with a few specific questions focused on your own development. "Keep this related to you and how you can improve, not why you were unsuccessful, but what you can do better next time."

Every interview is an opportunity to learn. By asking thoughtful questions, accepting feedback professionally and applying it to your next interview, you'll continue building your interview skills and improve your chances of success.