A reader asked “How do I know if my job interview went well?” Great question. But is there really a way to tell a good interview from a bad one? Although you often have some feeling about how you did, truth is you don’t really know how you did on the interview — or the impression you left — until you hear back from the employer.
Maybe (fingers crossed) you’ll get a good-news call soon for a second interview. Perhaps even an offer. But maybe just a prolonged silence as they figure out next steps.
While silence might not always be bad news, it is very very annoying. And leaves you asking yourself all kinds of questions. And rethinking everything you said and did during the interview.
Another annoying part of interviews
Even if the job interview went well, you still might not get the call-back or the actual job. Final decisions are all about fit — and of course depend on the other candidates. Sometimes there’s more than one good candidate. And so, even if they loved you, you still might not get the job.
I’ve interviewed plenty of people that I liked a lot. Sometimes I even bent over backwards during the interview to help them relax enough to show us their true potential. But, in the end, I also knew enough about the particular job and personality of the place to know when they — even some wonderful candidates — just weren’t the right fit for us.
Clues for job interview going well
Here are some things that might at least give you some sense of how well you did on your interview. Although admittedly harder, even on a video interview, you can tell a lot by reading the cues:
- Were they leaning in toward you with enthusiasm?
- Did they show a good deal of open body language? (In contrast to them being kind of closed down, with arms close to the body and not relaxed.)
- Did you notice that the position of their hands or body in some way matched yours? (This sometimes happens and shows a feeling of being in sync.)
- Were they smiling and nodding as you spoke – even if it was barely perceptible?
- Was the interview longer than 20 minutes?
- Did they follow up on things you said or just stick to a script? (Some places require the script, so this only helps for places that don’t.)
- Were they including phrases like “when you are working here” or “you’ll see for yourself”?
- Did they ask you about how soon you could start? If so, how was it phrased? If it was just a standard interview question, it would have been quickly delivered. When it’s about real interest, there might be follow-up questions or comments. Plus prolonged eye contact.
- If they asked you whether you had any last questions, did they say it with a smile leaning in toward you with real interest or at least showing open body language?
- Did they tell you you’ll hear from them soon?
- How about the human connection? Did the interaction feel real and get more comfortable as the interview went on? And did you actually feel the connection?
The more “yes” answers, the better it went. But it’s not a for-sure negative if the answers were mostly “no.” Different places have different interview styles. And as I already said, there’s also no absolute guarantee even if every answer is a “yes” and you left feeling great.
“In the moment” interview tips
Now here’s the most important thing … if you are consciously noticing each and every one of their reactions during the interview (to the point of making mental notes), then for goodness sake stop yourself! You aren’t in the moment if you’re thinking about how it’s going. And it will show in the connection they feel — or don’t feel.
Be aware enough to make adjustments along the way. But for the most part, just do your best to relax and be yourself. Focus on the interviewer’s questions and how open and honest YOU can be. Afterward, check your instincts for how you think it went. You’ll probably have a pretty good idea.
But since you can never know what they’re really looking for or exactly what type of person they have in mind (you’d be amazed at how different employers can be in what they think makes a good match), your best bet is to be real and remember to show them how you fit THEIR needs.
And then breathe a deep sigh of relief after you leave the interview room. Congratulate yourself on doing the best you could. And just get on with your life — continuing to look for a job until you actually get one. You’ve done all you can on this one. (Once you’ve sent the polite thank-you note(s), of course. And maybe an occasional follow-up.)
Interview went well & rejected
Yes, I know that doesn’t feel great — even for the interviewer if they like you. I’ve interviewed many people that I hated having to say no to. And that’s why if you feel it went well, stay in touch — starting with a good thank you note. (You never know where that might lead.)
But I want you to know that a rejection doesn’t always reflect on YOU or how you interviewed. It’s like dating. There are great people out there who just aren’t right for you. In some cases, it may even be a blessing!
Rest assured … if it’s a good fit, they’ll call you. And if not, you might have lucked out. Hopefully the next one will be THE ONE. Or the next. Sometimes it takes a while for the right job to find us. And so our most important job during this time is staying determined, continuing to look beyond just job boards, and keeping spirits up as best you can.
But just know, even if it takes time and even if you need to make a few shifts in strategy along the way (while continuing to network), eventually you’ll get yourself there. Hard as it is to believe during the oh-so-frustrating job search process, it will happen for you. Remember, it only takes one “YES!”
About the author…
Ronnie Ann, founder of Work To the Wise and Work Coach Cafe, bases her real-world advice on her many years as an organizational consultant where she helped interview and hire people, added to a certificate from NYU in Career Planning & Development, as well as her many adventures as a serial job seeker.
More posts to help
12 Ways to Stay Sane After a Job Interview
Stuck in the Waiting Game After 2nd Interview
I Messed Up My Job Interview – What Can I Do?
How Often Should I Call an Employer After My Interview?
So What Really Happens After a Job Interview?
10 Reasons You Didn’t Get the Job Offer
Please Help Me Ace My Phone Interview!
15 Things I Look for When I Interview People
18 Practical Tips to Help You Ace Your Job Interview
Job Interview Nerves? Tips for Before, During & After
10 Things I Look for When I Screen Resumes and Cover Letters
Why Do I Always Pick the Wrong Job?
⇒ EXTRA: Want To Career Coach Yourself? How To Get You Started
Hi Susan,
I have a question regarding the interview process. It seems l get the interviews very quickly at tech firms and do very well in phone interviews. I am called into onsite interviews as well. The problem occurs with face to face interviews in getting the roles.
I am usually the finalist candidate. The responses are usually the other candidate had more experience but there is usually only one other candidate or no candiddates. Also, the resume and phone interviews clearly show I had something to offer.
Given the background of the hiring manager, it could be lack of connection (not so much skills) that make the hiring manager not to want to hire.
These are all Director (exec.) level jobs.
I am also thinking this may be race issue. I am non-white.
The reason I say this is that I ace all rounds. Also, there is no specific reason that the HR dept. can state to why I didn’t get the role.
I am getting frustrated. I think the hirng managers can be bias.
Thank you.
Hi Quora,
Great that you are getting interviews so quickly! Not good that they aren’t turning into job offers, but that is very common, and you only need one “Yes!”
Many things could be causing the lack of job offers including competition, bad hiring processes, bad timing, bad luck, etc.
For Director level jobs, external recruiters are often called in to help, and they love filling those jobs because the commission is very high. So, they will invest time in coaching and placing good quality candidates. See if you can develop a good working relationship with a couple of executive recruiters. They will know about open jobs that are not posted. They will also have insight into the hiring processes of those employers and give you both coaching and feedback after interviews and rejections.
If I were you, in addition to working with recruiters, I would spend time networking, and consider joining a site like ExecuNet.com. They actually meet in person. Also, leverage the people you encounter in your current work and in previous jobs (both inside and outside of your employer’s organization). Get to know them better. Maybe ask for advice and contacts.
Research potential employers — places where you would like to work. Then, see if you know anyone who currently works there, or has worked there. And, reach out.
Don’t get angry because a chip-on-the-shoulder attitude will come across and will make people leery of you. Have confidence that this will work out, and you will find a great new job soon. It will happen!
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Hi Susan,
Thank you for the wonderful advice!! I knew I was asking the right person.
I will take the exec. recruiter route and also remember to maintain the positive attitude. Thanks for the encouragement! I needed that..
This is so helpful!!!
Cheers!
Thank you, Quora! You’ll do very well, I’m sure! Let us know when you accept your new job.
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Hi Susan
You are right. That field is competitive. Totally true.
They declined the job & claimed another candidate had the skills but that was within 8 hours overnight.. There is no other candidate. The intent was to obtain info.
I sent their HR a note indicating that this was dishonest & candidates are not free consulting advice. This was the first time that I experienced such dishonesty in a fake interview in such a senior role.
Thanks for the encouragement . This was so disappointing in humanity & how pitiful people can be in the professional world regardless of high education. So sad but good it did not work out..
Thank you
Hi Susan
I interviewed with a company with a VP & got an interview right away but in the interview the hiring manager was taking notes on how I was going to resolve issues. I felt like I was just brought in so help her understand how to strategize the role. As it was feelers on the role . She was like “did you take a look on how you were going to address this?” like I was already in the role.
I hope she is not a dishonest person who is just wants secrets. I asked for a follow up. The other thing is she kept stating I told them to schedule the other interviews since you have to work with them but they weren’t. Scheduled… And it could be because of short notice but that was left open ended on next steps…
I’ll find out but that would be messed up if this was just a fake interview to obtain feelers on how to structure role.
Does this sound like red flags? I will follow up but seems weird..
Thank you
Hi Quora,
Yes, it does feel a bit weird, but other things could be going on…
* You could have been one of the earliest people interviewed for a job that is new, so they are refining the job definition as they go through the interview process (sloppy, but not uncommon).
* OR, she could just have been a poor interviewer.
I would follow up, but I would be a bit cautious in any follow-on discussions. Sometimes employers do use the job interview process as a way to collect free advice from people who are expert in the “job” they pretend to be filling — that is rare, but not unheard of, unfortunately, especially if budgets are tight.
Keep looking, without waiting for this to turn into a job offer. if you are in a highly technical field, keep your shields up, particularly when interviewing with an organization that competes with your current or former employer. Don’t share anything that would compromise a non-disclosure or non-compete agreement you may have signed.
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Thanks Susan,
Do you find any positive signs of getting offer letter
Hi
I attended an academic job interview 12 days before. It was a skype interview which lasts for 40mins. Initially they didn’t tell me how long the interview would be so I couldn’t find out whether it is an extended time or short. they were matching the programs offered to my qualification and experience. Also I was asked how long it would take to join. When I mentioned that I need to give 3 months notice to the present employer and anything prior to 3 months would cost me a month’s salary, the HR said they wouldn’t put me for that kind of loss. Also HR asked me about my marital status and told it is not part of interview but she need it for arranging immigration visa. At the end of the interview, I asked how long does it take for me to know the outcome of the interview, HR said it would take 4 weeks. My question is, does it really take 4 weeks to process the offer letter ? is there any sign that they are interested in offering me the job? I am bit nervous and couldn’t wait. Please advise me.
Hi Devchith,
Hard to know for sure if it will really take 4 weeks, but — for an academic job in another country — I wouldn’t be surprised if it took longer. My recommendation is not to contact them before the 4 weeks are over, except for the appropriate thank you notes.
Do continue to search for a job, just in case this doesn’t work out. Otherwise, you will have lost 4 weeks, and need to go through the process of re-starting your job search.
Hope this works out for you.
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Hi Susan,
I did have another interview with another firm I wanted feedback on.
2 of the interviewers loved me and invited me back for the last round. The last person was so awful. He was discouraging in me joining the company and even asked why I didn’t apply to other companies.
I said “This is my profession and that’s why I am applying”. He then indicated the benefits were bad & don’t join. It put such a bad taste in my mouth because his agenda was to get me not to work there”. I know what he was doing.
Clearly, this was out of insecurity because I stuck to my credentials and he had a weird look on his face. I made sure I sent the 2 initial people who were very supportive feedback so they knew my of interest.
People like the last person can cause damage “Oh she was interested in other firms.”. etc. I know what he was trying to do.
Anyhow, this is how cunning people are. I hope fairness and good will is on my side. The two senior folks were great so I can be assured of their support.
Thank you.
Hello – I wanted to know if its a red flag if the interviewer starts to go on talking about himself and his experience when he asks me about my experience is.
I have had this where the conversation is about his experience stating, “Yes, I have that experience too and of course that is why we work in this industry etc.” To me, the comparison can be a sign of weakness by the interviewer who is a leader.
It’s usually happens with male interviewers who seem competitive to me. Some info. is fine but if its downloading of info. on his work then I am annoyed. (egotistical)
It’s understood that a sr. exec would have that experience but the way they are comparing sounds cheesy & not a good idea to work for them.
The interviewer talking about himself (or herself) may be a red flag — they aren’t interested in you, so they take up time talking about their favorite subject (themselves).
Or, potentially, they are trying to gauge your interest in what they do (assuming it’s relevant to the job). Or, they are looking for your comments that demonstrate your knowledge of the topic or a relevant/related topic.
And, possibly, they are testing your ability to handle a situation (long boring talk) that is common in the job.
It may also be a sign that the person is just not a good interviewer, finding talking about himself (or herself) easier than actually interviewing you.
The bottom line is that you are seeing somethings that make you uninterested in the job, which should be to your benefit, helping you avoid a job that would drive you crazy.
However, if it is your ideal job, try redirecting the conversation by asking questions — demonstrating both your knowledge and interest and, also, hopefully helping you gather enough information to determine whether or not you would like the job.
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Thank you Susan! I really appreciate it! I agree with your comments. The last time I worked under someone who did the very same thing but worse, the leader turned out to be a complete narcissist who had insecurities.
As a senior person I can no longer tolerate that and I can tell when its a normal & reasonable conversation vs. an egotistical person. Also, I did communicate all my experience so yes the person is probably not a good interviewer too.
Thank you!
Unfortunately, this does sound like a job and situation to avoid. Hope the next opportunity is a better fit!
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Hi Susan!
I’ve had my first interview with a big pharma 3 weeks ago. Everything was done via teleconference phone with 3 assessors (the team members and the manager of the team). I already had a lot of experience with TC phone calls so it wasn’t too challenging.
I’ve got a very good feeling throughout my interview- I had very detailed answers to their technical questions, due to my previous experience. The entire interview lasted 1 hour. I was asked about my time frame, which is the end of September. I asked them if they could also provide me with feedback for this interview- and they kindly agreed to send me a detailed one. I believe I was a very good fit with their required expertise- I say this because during the interview (besides other reasons), I’ve mentioned one technology they weren’t aware of, so they asked me to describe it in detail, and provide them with the commercial name for it. I made to ask after each question if everything was clear or if they need more details. Also, I made sure I am not rushing and that I wait until they stopped talking, so I don’t talk when they’re still talking. At the end, their manager said they’ll let me know the answer within a week. They mentioned that they were still pre-screening applicants for a second interview at their biggest site.
I’ve patiently waited…and waited. However, I still haven’t heard anything from them, and it’s almost past a month! They haven’t reposted the job yet. But it kinda feels bad- I mean it’s been a month! Since I wasn’t given their contact details, should I email the HR contact person and ask for more details? How should I phrase that email?
Many thanks!!!
Deea
Hello,
I had interview the interviewer said that I have tons of experience for the position that I applied. This was after I explained what I do currently and relevant job experience. The six behavioral questions were slightly challenging. But I made sure that I told a story that had three parts which included a result. When a interviewer goes silent after candidate finishes their statement is this a good or bad thing?
Hello,
The interviewer saying nothing after you’ve answered their question can mean nothing other than they were waiting to be sure you were finished. It could also have been a test to see how confident (or nervous) you were. OR they could have been mentally considering your answer, and/or framing their next question for you.
Don’t be too discouraged or too encouraged. Be sure to send your thank you note/email! Then, stay in touch to see what happens.
And ALWAYS keep looking for your next job until you hold a job offer in your hand (for the right job at the right salary).
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Hey
So I had a group interview yesterday (june 5) my first one ever. It was interesting. I had studied up on the company and was able to ask pretty relevant questions at the end. My fellow candidates were all quiet or nervous. Some rambled (a lot and didn’t really answer questions) some were very abrupt and came off almost cold. My question would be that this company rrally values its “culture” so how everyone works within themselves, if I presented them with knowledge of the company, proper attire, a genuine desire to work there do you think I would be hired?
I have been out of work almost 3 years (had a kid and was a student) woild that hinder their desire to hire me? Also what would you suggest I do with regards to previous employer references? Some I have not seen or talked tk in years.
Hi Desaraigh,
It sounds like you were the best candidate in the group interview, but many things can impact a hiring decision.
You need to have an answer for the 3-year work gap (being a student and becoming a mother are good explanations) that you provide even if not asked – because they will wonder. It should also be on your resumes.
You definitely need to connect with your references! Talk with them! Find out what they are doing and update them on what you are doing – give them a copy of your current resume. Also, ask if anyone has contacted them about you – who and when?
Good luck with the job search!
Susan
Hi there,
I went through a rigorous interview about 3 weeks ago for a senior position in a global medical devices organization. The initial interview went quite well, from a field of 10 potential candidates I was one the 2 top candidates selected for the final interview. I answered almost all questions well, the Country manager who was leading the interview commended my experience, academic credentials and attitude. We had a good connection. We even talked about our interest for certain cars, family etc, on his request. I had prepared a presentation which was also received well. After the interview, we shook hands as they congratulated me for a good interview. It felt like a had bagged the job already. I sent a thank you note to which they responded well and said they will get in touch. Its been 3 weeks now and counting.I followed up after 2 weeks but got no responce. I dont want to spoil my chances here. How should I approach this?
Hi Mr. J.
Follow up again via phone. Ask for the current status of the job, and what the next steps are.
Be prepared to leave a message. If you need to leave a message, give them the job title, the date of the last interview, and the people who interviewed you. Then ask them to let you know the current status and the next steps. Tell them you are still very interested in the position.
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
I attended interviews the other day, the general feel was positive. A lot of “yes” answers with the questions posed here. I hope I get the job, I really need this job.
Fingers crossed for you, Ozzy! Good luck!!!!
I have just finished an interview for a manager role in the NHS. The intervewers appeared pleasant and calm and asked me questions on how my skills matched the role. I do not know how well I did and I am not a bit bothered right now because the last interview I went for went well too and I was so hopeful I was going to get it only to be called by the Director the next day informing me I did not get the job,he said that I was second most favourite candidate..lol..If this one goes well ok. If not, I’ll just stick to what I am doing for now. I have had enough trouble already preparing, and I am not going to give myself anymore headaches till I hear from them.
Good plan, Lily! And keep looking for that next job. If this one isn’t it, maybe the next one will be the perfect job for you.
Good luck with your job search!
Susan
Hi
I haven’t entered to any comments on any web site related to jobs. This one how ever I shall.
I went for an interview yesterday.
I was shortlisted not from an interview but from my CV.
They pulled the ad as they received so many applicants.
I was told through my interview out of many I was shortlisted to 6.
After a year of unemployment that was a godsend!
I went for the interview yesterday and can only hope I did well..
I just spoke of what I know in the industry and gave examples, and smiled as I do.
Reading this site i am happy I used those skills and more.
I have had many no replies from other positions I had applied for.
In my position it is very diverse, and I stressed that in my interview.
Management Contract administration .
I will let you know how it went, he did say I ticked all the boxes and he would ring on Thursday which is tomorrow.
I was quite astounded at the timeline.
Will go into more details after I find out. Regardless whether I am accepted for the position or not, as I still was accepted for the final interview.
Thank you for this web site, it helped in many ways.
Sophia
Thank you, Sophia, WorkCoachCafe is here to help job seekers as much as we can.
This opportunity sounds very promising. Hope that it worked out for you!
Good luck!
Susan
Can someone please give me an interview story with a happy ending?
Hi Theo,
Many of our readers do comment on their frustrations, but yes — we also get stories with a happy ending. Here’s one of my own: Years ago, I interviewed for a job and came in second to someone with eight more years of experience than I had. I stayed in touch with the organization, a year later they invited me down for an interview — I got the job, and I worked with them for years. I loved it.
Does that work?
Good luck to you,
Chandlee
So I recently had an interview at a minimum wage paying job, I’m 19 and this was a cashier position for a restaurant. I’ve been a waitress before for about 5 months before this.
I talked to a female manager and I felt that she really liked me, she asked my availability and said that it was a great fit and that they could even offer me full time with the availability I had. I told her I could start asap and she said great. She then told me she wanted me to meet the general manager even though he was really busy.
This is what stumps me, after the interview I asked the general manager when I would hear from him and he said maybe the next day, its been three days.. I was thinking I would call in a couple days and just check in but I’m not sure what this all means…
Hi Sarah,
It often takes longer than a few days for a call back as managers also have on-going work.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Just a thought. Make sure that you are “polished” up to and during the interview. Look at your resumes. Are they the best they can be? Are there an grammatical errors? This can make or break a job. And, keep in mind that there is a “fit” for each job. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get one job over another. It just wasn’t your “fit”. There is one out there for everyone.
Catherine,
Thanks for your message and participation in the Work Coach Cafe community. We appreciate it.
Best,
Chandlee Bryan
Hi Chandlee,
I had an interview recently for a research position in a company. It wasnt with any of the HR types (already had that one) but with one of the actual people I might end up working with. There were not really a lot of questions asked so it was basically me going through my experience and him stopping me to ask questions to elaborate on things.
My worry is this; during the interview, I focussed on a lot of research work I have done in the past and although I have analytical lab experience too (which they want), I didnt emphasize on that. Towards the end of the interview, the interviewer started telling me a bit about the department and specifically told me how they always test each piece of equipment they buy before using it to make sure it works right (like they do in analytical labs). My question is, was the interviewer trying to tell me my way of doing things is not what he is looking for ? Or could this just be him telling me about the department ?
Oh, and I know in the end, only time will tell what the interviewer meant, but I would really like your perspective on the above.
Thanks !
Hi Adam,
From this distance, it is hard to tell what was in the interviewer’s mind when he told you how they test equipment before buying it. You may never know what he meant, unless you get the job and have a chance to ask him. And he may have meant nothing at all, just filling you in on how they work.
It is too bad that you didn’t focus more on your analytical lab experience, but it might not be too late. You could include it in your interview thank you, or, assuming you have already sent your thank you, you could send a follow up message that clarifies and describes your relevant experience for him.
Keep looking!
Good luck!
Susan
Hi Susan,
Thanks for the reply and the tip on following up. About the analytical lab experience, I forgot to mention that the interviewer did comment on the fact that I had a strong analytical background. I already sent them a thank you note, but I will be following up in a little while and I will be sure to reiterate how my analytical experience ties into their work. Unfortunately, the follow up will have to be through their HR department, so I am not sure if it will mean much to them.
But thank you nonetheless for the reply. The interviewer actually told me about the testing when I asked him about why he liked working there. I guess in light of what you said, that maybe he just went off on a tangent.
You’re very welcome, Adam. A job search is tough, and we try to help here at WorkCoachCafe.com. Hope this one works out for you!
Good luck!
Susan
I had written many a day ago about my interview with a company in july . After that interview , I was sent to a management assessment , and from all feedback ive heard , I aced it . now 8 months after the interviews , and 2 emails stating the job was filled , I find myself as 1 of 3 candidates left . after so much confusion , is this job even worth it?
Hi Kelly,
It could be that several unexpected things happened in filling this job, but that it will be a good place to work. Or it could be very poorly run and a terrible place to work. Hard to know.
Think about the interviews. Did you like the people? Did it seem like a good environment, with people happy to work there.
Good luck!
Susan
Hello there: I have a quick question on interviews. I am in consulting. My interviews are fairly positive but it seems the executive staff sometimes just asks me recommendaitons and consulting advice on how they need help but in two situations they did not hire me.. Something tells me I am overqualified for their traditional perm. roles… If I am problem solving their issues on the interiview and they are taking notes its a good sign…but they are not hiring me.. probably because of the level of the role..
Any ideas? Also, I hate providing advice.. It’s like hire me then.
Karen,
Sounds like your intuition may be correct, unfortunately. I am not in the consulting industry so cannot give you specific advice on how to handle it — I recommend you seek out other consultants and ask how they handle this situation. (I would imagine that you are not the first person to have ever experienced this type of challenge.)
One thing you could potentially say is “if hired, I would evaluate _______, ________, and ________ before making suggestions on how to proceed.”
Good luck and all the very best,
Chandlee
had an interview today. the bloke was noticably uncomfortable with me, felt like he was the candidate not me. weird. he was quite closed up. doubt i got the job. kind of p*sses me off cos im well qualified for it, but he was switched off from the first minute, so what can you do? I was well spoken, I dressed nice, I said the right things, and I doubt any of that mattered. Not fair.
Dani,
It may not have anything to you. He may not have been having a good day or interview with a “flat emotion” to throw people off. Sometimes people actually do that intentionally. Send a thank you note anyway and reiterate your interest in the organization and the company. Then keep looking.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
can i have all the info that guides me in to knowing how a interview went.
Thandi,
I wish I could click my heels three times and give you the answer you seek. Unfortunately it’s more complicated than that as many companies provide very little feedback and certainly don’t follow-up when you think they will. The only time that you can be certain an interview went well is when you get a follow-up interview invitation or a job offer — or if someone calls or emails you to tell you that the interview went well but that they have hired someone else (or are not hiring for the position.)
Best of luck to you,
Chandlee
My experience with work and interviews. Employers like to see (unfortunately) if you are currently working. It shows employability and if you are unemployed for long time, it doesnt look good on resume. Find something, anything for employment, even at Walmart or McDonalds. Do something because it shows you are working, maybe even not part of the field of work you are applying into…
Bob,
I agree that employers like to see others working. Volunteer work is also a nice option as it brings visibility — especially within the field you want to work in.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
I want to share my recent experience with one of IT companies that I attended interview went for more than an hour, I have answered everything they asked, felt like we were in sync with each other. After I am done with the interview HR said that they update me by end of day or next. I waited till EOD them I called HR for status, said that they yet to get update from interview panel, next day again while I called I got the same update, immediately a few mins later I got mail from the HR as below
“We regret to inform you that we are not in a position to pursue you based on our assessment of your skills in the personal interview had with you on 15.11.12.”
Then I requested HR if the feedback can be more detailed on which areas I didn’t meet interviewer expectations could help me focus & improve on those, for that she replied that she cant question the management who done the interview.
Since I know that I have done the interview well I felt that there is perception problem here due to reason I am currently unemployed which is hard to overcome. Strange I know I am better organized now than I was at job where my focus mainly on specific things of projects I was handling. Well, I am just not the right fit I know..
Naga,
If you feel that it is your unemployment that is getting in the way, try to do something that you can put on your resume that shows you are doing something.
True story: A friend who had been unemployed volunteered at a local cable access tv station. They taught him how to shoot video. He volunteered to cover local meetings. It turned out that was a paid part-time job. He put it on his resume and suddenly — three interviews in three weeks. One led to a job offer.
Having something on your resume can really help — and increase your access to networking. You may want to try this as a strategy; it sounds as though you have a lot to offer.
Good luck and all the very best,
Chandlee
Thanks, that is an eye opener! I start to lookout for something already shared this to some of my contacts. Hope I find some thing for survival.
Thanks, Naga.
Good luck with your job search.
Best,
Chandlee
What about a phone interview?
I also have an issue with certain managers at my previous employer; the owners respect me, but the manager do not. I was a long term employee, so it looked bad for the new management when I left; they implied they were going to make it hard for me, which is the reason I left (I knew it was futile to work under such people.) If a prospective is not giving me that first interview because of these insecure managers at a previous employer, how do I get pass that in my resume?
Snogly Dox,
Typically a reference check with a previous employer doesn’t happen until after a phone interview. Simply say that you left to pursue new opportunities. Focus on the job and what you can bring — the previous employer should become less relevant over time.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
I’ve notice when I have interviews my confidence level goes down because I feel like I do not qualify but at the same time I am a smart woman. I think it shows and therefore I am still unemployed for 4 years. Really faustrating because I have children to provide. I recently had a group interview and noticed they were more qualify than me and I think I showed less confidence but was still able to smile and stay interested. I don’t know if I did good or not it’s like a 50/50 chance. I wanted to ask her personal questions about the position but the other girl (by the way knows the people from the company, has connections) kept talking to the hiring manger taking our time so I could not stay until she was done after the interview because had to go back home to kids. Do you think I should call her after 2 days of the interview. by the way she said she was going to call us monday for an update. Thanks.
You are not the only person that has ever struggled with these issues of confidence. What you should do is to get help tackling them. You might try exploring ToastMasters and other public speaking groups — and also volunteering at a cause that you care about. These experiences can help you develop more confidence, which may in turn — lead to more opportunities and a job. If they’ve said they will follow up tomorrow (Monday), wait until Wednesday to follow-up with them. Given them enough time to get back to you.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Hi there, I am in need of advice!
About a month ago I applied for a position that I am very interested in. I am trying to make a career change into another industry where I can still use my education and experience. My first two interviews went great. The Direct I spoke with on the second interview really liked me and said I would be a great fit for the position. I then had to meet with the COO of the business for a 3rd interview which was last Wednesday. It only lasted about 15 minutes and I am not sure what to think. At one point he asked me why I had chosen this company and position which I replied that I had done research one the company and was impressed with the culture and the work was one I was interested in. He said “he didn’t buy that.” Exact words! I said well I respect your opinion but that is the truth. He seem to challenge a lot of what I was saying. Anyway, at the end he walked me out and told me the Director would be calling me. I have not heard back yet. Additionally, I originally applied for a different position but the Director wanted me for the position that I am speaking of. So, I am basically the only one applying for this position and it’s newly added. I was looking at job postings yesterday and I saw the position I originally applied for reposted. Can anyone tell me if this is a bad sign? If I don’t have a chance would I have been called already? And any advice on the third interviewer and timeframe?
Thanks so much!!!
Hi Tosha,
A lot of times, there are internal politics at play in hiring. It sounds as though you may have run into this. Here’s the strategy I recommend using to follow up: research the company’s website and recent press releases/news — and identify 1-2 concrete things that make you want to work there. Reference this information when you follow up to say thank you to the COO — and send a carbon copy to the other people who have interviewed you if you are doing this over email.
Positions often get re-posted when there are few candidates — most companies in the U.S. have to post jobs before they hire in order to comply with EEOC guidelines that ensure companies have properly advertised positions so that all potential candidates can see them.
Good luck and keep us posted.
All the Best,
Chandlee
I interviewed last Monday (Aug. 27th) with another United Way organzation for a Director of Resource Development position. It said on the job description that a minimum of five years work experience–well I have two but I got an interview anyway. There must’ve been something she liked about my resume (AND… this was the CEO/President doing the interveiws). Needless to say, I was nervous but I got through it… She had four more people to interview last week (There were 11 candidates in all). She said she would know something by the end of the week and would like someone to start ASAP. Welp, I still haven’t heard anything…
I have another job interview coming up on Friday, September 7th for another nonprofit organization and it is for an Administrative Assistant position–this is going to be a panel interview. There are five people (including the hiring manager) conducting this interview. How should I go about this? I’ve never had a panel interview before, only one on one.
Thanks
We nevermind.. the Administrative Assistant position interview has been cancelled. I just got an e-mail stating, “Our interviewing committee has decided to take a different direction for our admin position and we must cancel our interview that we had set up with you. We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused. Thank you for applying and we wish you great success.” Disappointed? Absolutely. 🙁
Mo,
Sorry to get your update on the Administrative Assistant position, but encouraged that you still have one in the running. Do keep us posted, and don’t fret if you haven’t heard anything yet — I think a lot of hiring decisions slated to be made last week have been delayed due to the holiday.
All the Best,
Chandlee
I went to an interview last august but still they havent valled me yet but the last thing they said was i’Ll take your application into good consideration’ what do you think of that statement? Did i get the job or not?
Hi Barrett,
If you are talking about August 2011, I think it’s most likely that you did not get the job. If the interview took place in August 2012, it is still possible that you are in the running.
Make sure you follow up with all interviews with a thank you note, and let them know you are still interested in the job. And keep applying for jobs until you get one that you like. As there generally multiple candidates for every job that is listed, it is always best to apply to more than one place.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Im sorry it happened last august 2012 🙂 thanks for the info 🙂 God bless
Chandlee,
Can I get your thoughts? I had an interview for an internal position (although there would be a relocation). This was a panel interview, and is the only one needed since I’m an internal candidate. This was three weeks ago. The hiring manager has emailed me twice now (once each week) to let me know that there have been delays and that I’d know something the next week (which have both come and passed).
I do know that the hiring manager’s supervisor, who needs to sign off on all hiring moves, took a week’s vacation in there. And for most of last week there was a meeting at the corporate office that they all attended. That being said, I know an offer letter only takes 24-48 hours to submit and pitch to the candidate. I’m assuming I’m most likely their 2nd or 3rd choice, and they’re waiting to see if the 1st accepts or denies the offer.
What is your take on this? Do I still have a chance? Should I followup at the end of this week just to let the hiring manager know I’m still excited about the position and would be a great asset to their team?
Thanks!
Hi John,
Based on what you’ve shared, I think a follow-up at week’s end would be a good idea. If you can, don’t follow-up with an e-mail but with a phone call or in-person meeting instead. Given that it sounds like you are ready to hear the outcome either way, it may be better for you to get the candid update rather than an edited response…No matter whether the response is positive or negative.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Thanks.
This would be a huge promotion, but seeing as its a large relocation for my family, the thought of it is causing a lot of anxiety. Unfortunately, at the end of every week we think to ourselves, “Ok, we need to move on.” and then we get the email from the hiring manager that tells us otherwise.
It definitely just feels like I’m being kept “on the hook” so to speak.
Hi John,
What a pain. Remember that even if it does happen — it’s still your choice to make as to whether you want to go or not.
Keep us posted, and good luck…
Chandlee
Thanks.
I got another update today. The position is still in a “holding pattern”. This leads me to believe there hasn’t been an offer extended to anyone and they’re possibly redifining the position or maybe that the person who signs off on all things is unavailable.
I do know that the person who is over the hiring manager (and therefore would sign off) has been stuck in New Orleans because there are some branches there that take priority over the decision of who to hire.
Thanks again.
Hi John,
Quite possible that the position is in a holding pattern…Do keep us posted, and good luck to you.
Best,
Chandlee
I did a phone interview then a second phone interview (first recruiter, then hiring manager) and the hiring manager said she wanted to fly me to CA to meet the team and do a “day in the office” sort of thing – interview with other team members, etc – and said she would get back to the recruiter to set it up. She also said they were early in the job search (I was only the second candidate they had spoken with) and she was heading out on vacation all this upcoming week so it wouldn’t be scheduled until Sept.
Do I wait for her to return to follow up about scheduling the visit OR do I outreach to the recruiter she referenced next week to get the wheels in motion?
Thanks for your advice.
Hi Kim,
I’d wait another seven to ten days to follow-up; let the recruiter put the wheels in motion with her colleague.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Hi,
I recently had an interview with a marketing company that I got through a school alumnus group on LinkedIn. Finished the interview, felt great. The guy who hooked me up with the interview wasn’t able to be there at the actual interview because he had a dentist’s appointment. He followed up saying, sorry I wasn’t able to meet you, but from what I heard you did really well.
Two days later, I get a call from someone from HR in that company telling me to “please call me back”. I do, but no answer. Just left a voicemail.
Is this phone call good or bad???
Smith,
It certainly sounds positive that you were called back. If you don’t hear from them in a few days, call back and do not leave a voice mail — wait until you talk to someone in person.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Hi there. I recently had a second phone interview for a company based out of my state. It went very well with the interviewer saying she wants me to come out and do a site visit. This was Wednesday of this week – she also indicated she was going on vacation all of next week. I have not heard anything from the recruiter to start setting up the visit.
Should I wait until she returns from vacation (after Labor day) and send a quick email OR should I email today prior to her leaving? I’m leaning towards waiting until she returns from vacation since she indicated they were early in the hiring process and said her schedule wouldn’t be open until Sept – my gf thinks I should email today – my hubby thinks I should wait until she returns from vacation.
Your thoughts?
Hi,
I had an interview today that I didnt even apply for@ a credit union. In the email i was told that the recruiter had a position that she wanted to speak with me about to see if i was interested. I went to the interview today. No real “INTERVIEW ” questions were asked. The recruiter went over my resume asked questions about where i worked in the past then she called the branch manager in. The branch manager talked to me for about 15to 20 min then the called the credit union president in. After they called the president in we talked about benefits he explained to me how well the benefits were and how badly he was ready for “new blood “. I referred to the customers as “customers “questions and he stated “questions you are going to have to go home and practice calling them members” (they are considered members when yoy are a part of a credit union) they kept stating that I would be doing this and how valuable and what type of impact they feel i would make on the team. The president even asked me if I knew how to cook cause he wants to have a potluck next month. It was more like just shooting the breeze rather than an interview. They then scrambled around the office to find this form I needed to sign to have a background check. Even though they stated they have sone a few interviews it seemed that nobody else got this far because they did know where to get the form from. The recruiter then asked me how much i currently make and then the room fell silent. I saw that it seemed to be a problem. After everyone left the room the recruiter stated “I will see what we can do about this”. I dont know what to think. I am very stressed out where i work now and im willing to take less for a piece of mind. What do you think of the interview and of the salary dilemma?
What should i feel if they never told me the salary. It makes me feel like they were either playing hardball with me to see if i would negotiate down to what the job offered, they liked e and they were willing to see if they can negotiate paying me what im asking, or they just didnt want to scare me off because they really dpnt have a lot of qualified applicants. What do you think of this?
Hi there,
I need some advice. I went in interview yesterday. I feel strange with what the interviewer did with me. She just ask me to take an exam then she never asked anything about anything about me. Then she just told me appreciations and said no body got perfect in one part of the exam, only me got it perfectly. Then after she already discussed with me about the nature of the work. And told me the salary they offer. After she brought me in the floor where the staff work and went in another girl. And in that floor they show me what to do and let me do a couple of that. And she brought me back to the interviewer and interviewer told me okay we will just inform you. I just said thank you. I’m just wondering they never mention when and how they will inform me… Should I call and ask? Thanks
Hi Rowena,
It is rare and unfortunate but sometimes companies have a policy of not asking potential employees questions — only having them perform a task. It sounds like this may be the policy where you applied. If you don’t hear from them in a week, call them and say, “Thank you for the interview. I wanted to let you know that I am still interested.”
If you do get the offer, you may want to do a “gut check” with your own feelings. Does it feel like a place you would feel comfortable working?
Good luck,
Chandlee
thank you chandlee i will going to do that. it’s only two days from the time i took the interview. The place is good and the work is not that hard for me. I’m going to wait till wednesday and if i hear nothing from them i will do what you adviced me. And i will let you know what will happen.
Hi,
I got the answer, they will not accept me. I feel bad coz I dont know what is their criteria in choosing an employee. I got a good mark in the exam and able to do what they asked. Anyways its their lost not mine. If they dont want to hire me theres still a lot of things to choose and to apply for.
Hi Rowena,
I’m sorry to hear that. Remember that it’s likely possible that multiple people applied for the job and that more than one person passed the test. You can always ask for feedback on how you could strengthen your application for next time.
Glad you are moving on and applying for other positions. I wish you all the best with your application.
Best,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee!
I applied for a nurses Aide job last wednesday, and I was called on the same day for an interview on thursday. After the interview, the interviewer said “I should receive a call the next week, that they are still interviewing people till monday” It’s Wednesday now, and I haven’t received a call yet. I am worried in a way. The interviewer also said that I should feel free to call if I have any questions. I really want the job, but I am starting to think they won’t call me.
Mojisola,
I think if you haven’t heard by next Monday, you should call and follow-up. Hiring and extending offers almost always takes longer than anticipated!
When you follow-up, ask if they need any additional information from you and reiterate your interest in the position.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Please help, need a fast reply!!
Hi,
First of all thanks for all the information you provide regarding job interviews..They are very good, sadly i have just noticed this website…i am a fresher as i have graduated in May in Mba-hr and still looking for a job. Wish i had seen this site before, would have been better.
Anyway, I wanted to ask this embarrassing question which has started to haunt me now..i have been applying for jobs here and there, i had applied for one job, had given my telephone interview, face to face interview and was waiting for their reply but they did not reply for a long time..and i wrote an email to them, called them up just to inquire regarding it but they did not pick up the phone so i presumed it was unsuccessful and so i went to another city where my parents stay and and looking for jobs..i got the call from the company after a month that i am shortlisted for the further rounds but i had made up my mind that i amm not coming back and so started looking for jobs where my parents stay coz this place has better job opportunities…I have given 2 odd interviews here and though it went off well did not get selected..But i am still looking and though im sure something good will surely come on my lap….but now the question is ..its august and if i go for an interview…which i likely have tomorrow…if the interviewer asks me why such a long break after graduation..what do i say???
Hi Raghav,
I don’t anticipate that you will be asked the question — most employers know that it takes several months to find a job post-graduation…The key is to keep applying and stay positive and persistent in your applications.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee,
I was desperately waiting for the interview call for the faculty position I had applied. Yesterday I received the call and recruiter asked me to give a demonstration on a topic outside my area of interest. Yes, the topic matches my qualification but still its not my area of interest at all. I then asked the recruiter that can she give me another topic but she replied that they only need faculty for the area she has told me to prepare demonstration on. I so asked her that I would prepare a different one and told her few others, she responded; ”…its upto you and jury will decide”.
Now what should I do?
Thanks,
Sarah
Hi Sarah,
Unfortunately, it sounds like the employer is hiring for a subject matter that they need to fill. If it isn’t of interest to you, then it may not be the right job. If you want the job and feel that you can prepare a demonstration and present on it, you may be in full contention for the position.
Here’s a hard truth on the employment process: A majority of employers hire not to fill job seeker interests, but to meet business and organizational needs. It sounds like this particular job is outside of your area of interest. Based on what they’ve told you, you have a decision to make: Would you be willing and interested to try teaching in this area? If not, I recommend that you think about whether or not you want to go after the position at all. If you choose to present on a topic that only aligns with your interests, it is unlikely that you will be seen as a relevant candidate for the job.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Thank you Chandlee for the reply.
I was just wondering if I go for the demonstration on my chosen topic and then leave the rest on the jury. I mean if they would consider me for any future positions… What would you recommend?
Sarah
Sarah,
Again, my recommendation — if you want the position — is that you present on the topic that they asked you to present on. If you choose to present on another topic, it will leave them wondering if you aren’t open to working within a structure — and are likely to go with what you want instead of your needs.
The bottom line is that the opportunity they have may not be the right one for you. But if you want the job, you need to address the employer’s pain points — what they need first.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Thanks Chandlee
I have one another question. Its really depressing sometimes that I receive calls from not so good organizations. I mean at first place when I read the ad in the newspaper of a vacancy available somewhere in a college, I apply but eventually when I go to such college it gives such a depressive picture. I mean small colleges with 50 candidates other than me available for the demo and interview. I even asked those candidates that what are there previous qualifications and experience but they replied that they neither have any previous experience nor there qualification is as much higher as mine. I feel so bad at that time seriously… Secondly, where I was working previously I had greater qualification among all employees there but yet I was paid the lowest among them. This put me into so much tension that I had finally resigned from that position. I wonder why employers do not see my previous experience and qualification?
Sarah,
If you have set criteria on
– what constitutes a “good organization” and what does not,
– what you will teach and what you will not,
– what you need to make in order to feel successful,
You may not be happy in the education field. In general, education is not a highly compensated field. Schools pay what they can afford to pay. Tuition driven schools cannot afford to hire even after losing a few students. Schools need teachers to teach what they need taught. There is often room for creativity in the classroom rather than in the curriculum or course offering sheet.
Salaries in schools aren’t always set by education and qualifications alone — they are typically set by budgets, financial officers and mandates that are established far and away from the selection committee.
Resigning on the principle that you ought to be paid more because you have more education is not likely to help your case to get hired elsewhere or make friends among your colleagues or references. To borrow the overall sentiment from Harry Potter, “It is our attitude, not on abilities or education, that define us.” When you feel frustrated on the inside, try not to show it on the outside. Success is more likely to come when you are perceived as a strong colleague and team member.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Chandlee,
I just found your website today. Excellent site! I had an interview on Thursday, August, 2nd. for an entry level engineering position. I felt great coming out of the interview! Just like your article states, it literally was my best interview. There were technical questions that I nailed, and I was told some of the goofy answers they received from other interviewees. We had conversation and even joked at times. In addition, I answered “yes” to most of your questions above. In a carefully worded and vague way, they asked how soon I would be able to make a decision because they want to get the ball rolling on training in early September.
Anyways, I was told I’d expect some sort of communication by the end of next (this current) week. On Monday, I received an email from the HR lady at a different office but she was the one who set up the interview for me. She had me fill out a more detailed application and background release form online.
My question: Because I was expecting correspondence by now, when should I call them (or should I email)? I was thinking Tuesday if I don’t hear anything by Monday. Do I call/email the HR lady, or one of the persons I interviewed with?
Thanks!
PS. Is the application and background release any indication of an offer?
Hi Donald,
Employers typically don’t ask for a formal application and background release unless they are seriously interested in hiring you. I think this is a good sign…That said I wouldn’t rely on an offer.
I recommend waiting until Tuesday then contacting HR and asking if they need any additional information.
Good luck,
Chandlee
My husband is in a very similar position with the detailed application and background check but no offer yet. It surely is a nerve wracking place to be in. 🙂
Good luck to you and your husband Cathy. Tell him to keep applying in the interim — it helps keep all doors and windows open for new opportunities.
Best,
Chandlee
@raghav: I had to post your question on here because somehow either I am an idiot and didn’t see it, or I just don’t see it on here anywhere else and I wanted to respond. Short of telling the interviewer off (boy would that make me mad).. Maybe state “oh, am I interviewing for a position with my father? I thought I was interviewing for a position based upon my own merits.” Or…tell them that if you wanted a position with your dad, that you would interview with him.
Catherine,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with Raghav. I see the situation differently from you. From my perspective, the critical issue here is this — there is no need to tell anyone what your father does in the first place. If you say, “I thought I was interviewing for a position based upon my own merits,” you may sound sarcastic — or defensive — neither of which helps your case.
Good luck!
Chandlee
Although I do agree with you Chandlee to a certain respect, it appears from Raghav’s post that these people interviewing him already know “of his father”. I don’t think that Raghav has said anything, rather, they are inferring that Raghav is getting his(her) internship based upon the father’s position. I would actually not want to work for anyone who infers that sentiment. I would rather shoot back at them but in a different tone, to say” oh…I thought I was interviewing based upon MY accomplishments.” Its assumed from the post by Raghav that the interviewers are already prejiduced going in. Raghav, correct me if I am wrong?
Author: raghav
Comment:
hi ..i have just completed my mba in hr and on a look out for a job…i had done my internship in a hospital and my father is a doctor so when ever i go for an interview for instance in an IT company ..the interviewer asks me “why did you choose a hospital for internship….is it coz your dad is a doctor he must have got you that internship..huh”….(obviously he did coz i needed to start with my internship immediately)…how to tackle such questions as i always get stuck up ..i feel the interviewer makes me feel im useless and ran to my dad for an internship…!!!
Hello , i am in the process of interviewing for an awesome position in a field i am hugely interested in . i had a phone interview , then i was called in for a face to face behavioral based interviewed , whih i completed on July 3rd . At the end of this , i was asked about the job . i was asked What do i think the slam you in the face moment ( i.e. the moment i would be wondering why i took this job ) , what would this be , and i replied . I really dont think i will have this moment , i am extremely confident in my abilities and my ability to learn to prevent any situation like this……was this too cocky of a response . also i was asked my salary requirements , and i said i havent really thought about this , i am more interested in getting this opportunity / position …….any ideas?? Too cocky??
A little follow up on this , i was called on the 15th of june for the scheduling of the phone interview and i was called two weeks exactly after the first call ( scheduling phone interview ) , for the face to face interview . Could this be an intentional schedule set up by the company?? I was told i would hear from them within two weeks . so i guess i am still on good footing ( as of now)
lol. Kelly-That’s probably EXACTLY what I would say if interviewed. Don’t think it sounded cocky to me. just confident. and keep your hopes up, but continue looking while this company drags its feet. maybe then when they call to ask if you are still interested, you could say yes, but I have a decision to make on another company that has offered me a position… grin…
Hi Kelly,
I think it’s likely you are fine. In general, though — it’s good to have a sense of what you need to learn on a job — and to provide your potential employer with a sense of how you’d like support in learning that if hired.
As for salary ranges, you can try salary websites such as salary.com and glassdoor to get a general sense of ranges.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Wow , alot has and hasnt happened since that moment , i was called to take a supervisors simulation test , a day in the life of a supervisor at this company , if you will. this i think went prety well . i was told at that point two weeks and youll have a decision. well its been27 days since , and i am guessing . i also heard from an acquaintenance that my interviews went well , i would fit in at this location , and i seemed able to be trained . I emailed the recruiter for this company twice on consecutive fridays . What should i do , still wait ,, no more emails??
Hi Kelly,
I’d wait and hold off from following up again but in the meantime, I would go ahead and continue to apply for other positions. It’s hard to wait idly by the phone, and ideally — it would be great for you to have multiple offers so that you could choose the job that is best for you.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee
It’s Tuesday in my country now.
I went for an interview last Friday with the HR guy first and then with 2 hiring managers. The hr guy says he’s okay with me and gave me tips on what kind of people the 2 hiring managers like. Then yesterday, the hr guy called me and asked how the interview went with the 2, do I think I stand a chance and if I am taking up another job offer, how much are they offering me, am I keen on the job etc. He ended by saying if I have any questions, I can call him. I was too nervous and I think I screwed up and sound uninterested! (I’m very interested!) I really wonder what the purpose of the call is. I’ve never had someone call me to ask how an interview went. If he had meant to see how keen I was about this job, I’m afraid I might have blew my chances. Should I call back today to ask how the selection process is going, so as to let him know how keen I am? Or will it seem too desperate and look bad on me?
Hi Miranda,
I recommend you call him back and simply say that you enjoyed speaking with the people you met — and that you remain interested in the position.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee & Catherine
I called back to let him know that I’m interested and he just called back for me to start work next week!
Hi Miranda,
What wonderful news! Congratulations and hope it goes great.
All the very best,
Chandlee
Miranda! TERRIFIC NEWS! Go out and celebrate! Anthony-how’s the search going? I think it is GREAT that you are developing “networking” prospects. Unfortunately, sometimes the job search is as much of a “sales job” as anything. Hunting up old friends, letting them know you are looking, asking them to talk to others about referrals. When I lost my job, I was calling/emailing EVERYONE, including my previous bosses, and asking for referrals. I didn’t get a job I had applied for, but, like you, the HR manager said she wanted to present my name to someone who was hiring and looking for someone like me. Just keep on going. It WILL happen. Believe in yourself, take a deep breath and PLUNGE IN!
Miranda: I might add that it never hurts when an employer asks you if there are other prospects you are looking at? you answer yes.
Hi Catherine,
Thanks for your contributions to the discussion. You are absolutely correct!
All the Best,
Chandlee
In the last 3 weeks i have interviewd for 2 jobs.
The first one i was told that we shall know the results in 2 weeks.. which have since passed and no word yet.
The last one was to communicate in 4 days and so far 2 days have passed..
Should i call them both to inquire the status?
Hi Robert,
I’d go ahead and call and follow-up on the job that you interviewed for three weeks, and give the second one a follow-up after a week has passed.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Negative answer. References mean definitely nothing. Thank you for your advices. Have a great day.
Anthony,
I respectfully disagree with your take on this. If you had an interview scheduled for July 15, and a great candidate came in and interviewed on July 10 so they cancelled your interview before you could be considered — how would you feel?
No matter how unfair it feels from the other side of the hiring desk when you don’t get a call back as early as you would like, most employers do follow processes so that everyone who gets invited to interview gets considered.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee,
I have never disagreed. I think I did not express myself as I should have lol. When I said I thank you for your advice, it was sincere. I am mad because I did not get the job but I am still motivated to keep searching. And this is why I thanked you for your advice.
Thank you very much and sorry for the understanding.
I have just received an email from one of the hiring person and she told me that I was a great candidate but unfortunately the competition was intense and one of them was over the top (I do not know on what though). She said I should find a job soon and she is ready to help me out. This interview was for a company the NASDAQ so I guess it attracted the best.
Thank you again
understanding=misunderstanding. I am tired. lol.
Anthony-Don’t take the rejection to heart. It just means that wasn’t the RIGHT fit for you. Would you take the first car you saw? The first house? NO! You would want to see if it fits your lifestyle and you fit into that job. BE GLAD you didn’t get the job. Keep plugging! and ABSOLUTELY your references come into play! As a matter of fact, it sometimes is your REFERENCES that may find you a job!
From: BEEN THERE, DONE THAT ALREADY (LOTS OF TIMES.) 🙂
Anthony, since when aren’t YOU the best????? Think about it. It is all a matter of matching skills/personality/etc. to the job.
Thank you very much I appreciate your advice. One of the interviewer emailed me and explained to me why I was not hired and that she was going to help me out to find a job in the city. So I am really grateful and you are right Catherine, you always have to believe in yourself. Thanks
Anthony and Catherine,
Thanks so very much for your kind words and advice to one another.
All the best to both of you,
Chandlee
Hello,
I had a phone interview (for an internal audit intern position) on Wednesday June 20th that went pretty well since the following Friday the recruiter called me to ask me to come to the headquarter for an in-person interview. So on Wednesday the 27th at 9:00 am I was interviewed by a senior HR and by the Internal Audit Manager. I got a lot of smiles and eye-contacts from both, we even laughed. At the end of the interview one of them asked me “don’t you want to know about what you would do in this position?”. So I say of course I would love too” and she explained it thoroughly. I do not know if this moment was a good or bad one though! At the end, they shook my hand warmly and with long eye-contact (this is at least what I felt). The recruiter (the guy who is taking care of my application)(not present in the room for the interview) walked me out and told me that he should contact me by Friday (so today) or at the beginning of the week. I was pretty happy of my interview but afraid of being in an intense contention. My interview lasted between 40 minutes to one hour (not sure). At 2.00 pm, so about 4 hours later, the recruiter called me to ask for my references saying “Can you email me two or three references?”. I told him that my third reference would be a member of my school but not a teacher or a former boss. He answered me “That is not a problem at all. It is fine”. We are Friday 7.00 pm and I know my references have not been called yet. And here I am waiting for this great position asking myself if I am still on the good track or if they are just waiting for Monday to see if their first choice will show up to work (maybe they still have not made their choice). Can you tell me where do you think I am in the process. Thank you so much for your answer.
Hi Anthony,
As I wasn’t there and am not inside the organization, I can’t state what the employer is thinking.
That said, one of the things that you need to make sure you ALWAYS do in an interview is to show that you are thinking about the job and what you would be doing in the position.
The fact that they’ve asked for references is great — and if only a day and a half has passed since they asked for reference information, I certainly do not think that you are out of the running.
Good luck and all the very best,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee,
Thank you very much for cheering me up lol. I also really appreciate your advice that you gave me.
Actually my main concern is that they already found the number one intern (this is why they have NOT called my references) and that they wait Monday to see if he comes work or if he/she decided to go somewhere else (and so make me wait as a potential spare wheel).
To be honest with I do not know if it is really common, but making someone wait to see if the other comes fulfill the position would be a little bit selfish, in my opinion.
Anyway, I’ll let you know what happened either way.
Thank you again for your professionalism.
Hi Anthony,
Thanks for your response. Just remember that employers almost always have a process that they need to follow — and a big part of that process is following it through with all candidates. Stay patient, but keep up your search in other places, too.
Good luck!
All the Best,
Chandlee
Hello,
SO HARD TO TELL!
I’ve been dealing with a recruiter and have been jerked around since February about a particular opportunity. He finally landed the interview. He told me I would be interviewing with 3 people and ended up only being one. I finally went in for an interview on June 22, 2012. I thought the interview was very conversational and comfortable until she threw a curve ball “situational” question. I answered it to the best of my ability and based on my current experience, but it was not quite the answer that she had in mind. She ended up lecturing me about my answer and I feel like the tone of the interview changed from that point on. It was toward the end of it, so it ended shortly after anyway (right at an hour).
We did talk about next steps in the interview process, she said IF I qualified, it would be a 2nd interview with her direct supervisors (the other 2 I was supposed to be talking to as well). I ended it by asking her if she thought I’d be a good fit for the positon and she said that she thought my skills were very transferable and would adapt well to this positon. I cannot tell how sincere she was being though.
So, I left feeling really discouraged, but I contacted my recruiter with positive feedback and asked for the interviewer’s email address. I sent her a thank you and she actually replied back rather quickly (within 15 minutes). She said that my recruiter will be in touch with me regarding next steps. So my question is do you think that means I made it to the next step? Do you think she would’ve responded had she not been interested? What could I have done differently, if anything?
Thanks for the advice!
Hi Sparkles,
As I wasn’t there and don’t work inside the company, I can’t gauge how it went. But I can tell you that the recruiter’s willingness to speak with you and to share information about the process is helpful. Not all companies do this…
Keep us posted.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Hey,
I had an interview with a call center. i feel that i did a great job! i reviewed the company’s info online, I dressed the part, answered every question great!. this is a company that is hiring to start by the 25th of june. Now, the interview lasted longer then 25 minutes, and after the interview he made me wait and i waited for 10 min…can anyone please tell me what that means?. and then after everything was over he told me the agency will be getting in contact with you by monday.
Hi Chrisla,
I think it all sounds good. I have no idea why he asked you to wait for 10 minutes as I wasn’t there. I hope you’ll hear back by Monday, and you should make sure to send a brief thank you note in the interim.
If you don’t hear back by Wednesday, follow-up — it often takes HR longer to extend an offer than a hiring manager wants it to!
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
dear,
so after waiting so long for a second interview, you are finally made an offer. Is it wise to accept it promptly when it is over your expectation, or there is a better way to go about it so you don’t sound desparate and at the same time don’t end up leaving without closure?
Tony,
Job offers are frequently delayed for all kinds of internal reasons that have nothing to do with you. It’s important not to take it personally.
If you are extended a job offer for the job you want — and the offer exceeds your expectation — I would recommend you accept the offer, and let them know that you honestly thought you were out of the running because you had not heard from them for so long. You want to stay positive, but I think it’s also okay to say, “I’d been waiting to hear from you for so long that I did not think I was under consideration for the job any longer. Moving forward, I’d like to know that we will be in more regular communication — and I’d like to know what paperwork you need before I start, etc.”
If you need to delay your start date a week or two, don’t be afraid to ask.
Good luck, and congratulations!
Best,
Chandlee
Group,
I recently had a long interview with a potential employer. The company is very small. I should mention I did not apply I was called in. However, I sent out my thank you e-mails and I received positive feedback from them. During the meeting they said things like “you’ll be involved in this and this”. I was told a few different timelines on when I would be contacted but this week was the latest and it has been a couple of weeks. I know last week was a business trip out of town so I was not worried. However, is the letter below appropriate? What should I do? Any comments would be appreciated!
Hope all is well! Just thought I’d send you an email to check in on the status of the job as well as inform you of my situation. I have been contacted by another company for a meeting and possible position. While it is a great position I’m more interested in working at —.
Thank you again for your generosity and I look forward to being in contact with you soon.
Sincerely,
—
There is a little more personal touch to the letter but I have given the core components for review! Thank you.
Hi Megan,
If you do not hear anything by early next week, I recommend you follow up directly with them. Ask if you need to submit a resume and additional information in order to be considered as a formal applicant for the job — and reiterate your interest in the position.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Recently, I had a second interview with a company and they had me interview with some of the team (people with whom I’d be working). One of the gentlemen did not make a lot of direct eye contact. He also asked several questions that stumped me (I didn’t know the answers but told him I am a fast learner). I let him know (not in these exact words) that for this particular position, I would use my years of expertise while also relying on the guidance of his department for those aspects of the job that aren’t 100% within the scope of my work. i was honest and humble, but also direct. I also let him know that I apologize for not knowing the answers and hope this wouldn’t negatively impact me in this interview process. He said no, not at all. The job for which I applied would work side-by-side with his department. I think there is often a misconception that in order to do this particular position ‘well” that you have to know everything including things that aren’t really part of the job.
I just hope his infrequent eye contact and questions that stumped me do not lose me the job. The person who would be my boss seemed to like me and he had requested that I come back to meet with these team members. I know it’s hard to be able to answer my questions without knowing more about the situation, but is it a bad sign when someone doesn’t make a lot of eye contact? Or perhaps, might it be a cultural difference? I’m shy and it’s very hard for me to make eye contact, so it was a bit uncomfortable that i was trying to make eye contact with him to do my best in the interview and he would avert his eyes to the wall. I am not hideous and tried to look my best! 🙂
Any thoughts on the eye contact issue? Could that have meant he did not like me or think I was qualified? I am honestly very qualified for this position per my understanding of the role and requirements, but not sure I was able to communicate this to this particular interviewer since he was asking so many other questions. Thank you in advance for reading this and responding!
Kimberly,
If someone doesn’t make frequent eye contact with you, they may not make eye contact with others, either. Don’t read too much into it. Sometimes offices have a staff member who is known as “the contrarian,” and whose job it is to ask such questions — in such a manner — and see how you respond.
More typically, people have different styles and approaches.
If this is an organization with many people involved in the interview process, it’s likely a group consensus that matters. Sounds like you certainly held your own in the interview.
I advise you to keep your eye on this position and others that might be a fit.
Good luck,
Chandlee
So, i had an interview on Friday June 1st. I felt like the interview went extremely well. I didn’t get stumped on any questions or anything. The interview person informed me upon my entering the room that 467 people applied for the position and she only selected 20 people to interview and that whatever happens, I should feel really good about myself (lol). Towards that end of the interview she stated ” I hate to speak too soon….you are definitely qualified, I just have 4 more interviews to do. This is going to be very hard bc I have interviewed some really good people and believe I am going to have to bring back my top 3 candidates for another interview”. She said she wanted to move really fast on this and call early of the following week. because she has been extremely busy. I followed up on Tuesday with the HR and they stated the lady was very busy and didn’t have a chance to make a selection yet, but they would call either way. I followed up again on Wednesday and they said the lady had been extremely busy, but they would call. I feel like I have called enough. She did give me her business card at the end of the interview that had her work and cell number, but I don’t know if I should call or what. Should I? Please help.
Hi Kim,
First, congratulations that’s very good news that you were selected for the interview. I also think that’s great that you have followed up.
I think you are right that you have called enough — in general, I don’t advise calling to follow up twice in the same week, but the chance of this hurting your application are relatively slim.
On the employer side, the hiring process almost always takes longer than the employer initially thinks it will. It’s just “one of those things.” I recommend hanging in there and being patient, it does sound like you may receive a call back — but keep looking and applying for other jobs as well in the interim.
We want you to have as many opportunities as possible.
All the very best,
Chandlee
Hi ,
I had ma interview in may with GAS company in may this year .All to me went well, because I had the experience and knowledge basically to what i was interviewed. After the interview i was told by the recruit Manager that ‘ll get back to me in month time and hand to me their business cards. Do you think there’s future with company.
Kalule,
Given that I have no experience with the company you’ve spoken with, I can’t say if there’s a future with the company. I can tell you that the best way to follow-up with them would be to send a thank you note and express your continued interest in working for the company.
Good luck — and all the best!
Chandlee
Hi,
I had a first interview for a digital media agency on the phone first, so unfortunately I can’t speak to most of your bullets. However the ones I can speak to did happen (only a couple tho). How do I know if a phone interview went well?
Hi ESS,
The best way to know if a phone interview — or any interview went well — is to get invited back for an in-person interview. Or to be offered the job.
While you wait to hear back, you can always follow-up with a thank you note that addresses any questions you feel you didn’t nail. Write each interviewer directly — and if you provide more info on an answer that wasn’t perfect — you may impress!
Good luck
Chandlee
Hi,
I recently interviewed for a vacant position within a company I already work for. The HR recruiter was very tough and I couldn’t gauge his interest in our interview. I kept getting affirmations to my responses like “excellent”, “very good”, “that’s great”, but I assume they are supposed to say this. Anyway, after all of the positive reinforcement, at the end of the interview he said that I would hear something from him next week to determine if I would be scheduled for a follow-up interview with the hiring manager. Is there any way to tell if I actually did well or are my chances slim since I wasn’t scheduled for follow-up immediately?
Thanks :’)
Essey
Essey,
You are correct — often interviewers are trained not to give full information about your chances/performance during the interview. I recommend you simply follow up with the hiring manager and express your continued interest in the new opportunity should it be available.
Don’t dwell too much on the scheduling, many organizations get delayed in the process — which often has nothing to do with candidates.
Good luck,
Chandlee
I had a great interview yesterday and left having the interviewers tell me I was a strong candidate for the position. This afternoon I received the oh so familiar “we decided to go with another candidate….” call. The gentleman added on the voice mail that if it was okay with me could he keep my resume for any future openings – just to let him know. I had to wonder if he says this everyone and was just trying to be nice, or did he really mean it. It’s a small company so I can’t imagine what other positions would be opening up in the future. Regardless, I will thank him and say fine – keep the resume. I do want however to inquire what I could have done better on the interview but don’t know if this appropriate, nor do I want to come across as insecure and desparate. I am at a point as I am sure many of us are, where I truly don’t know what else to do to snag the job. I want to be the bride and not the bride’s maid. I seem to come so close but just can’t get over the hump. Is it common or appropriate to inquire what one could have done to get the position that slipped away?
I originally interviewed for a position with a company last August and didn’t get the job but recently they have called me in to talk with them twice in a little over a week. The odd thing is that both times I have gone in to talk with them they didn’t ask me any “interview” type questions and was pretty relaxed conversation with them telling me about the position and wanting to know what questions I had. I realize they are most likely working off of my interview last August but I am trying to get a feel for what has happened. The first time I talked with a supervisor and the second time I talked with the department manager who remembered me from the interview last year. Any thoughts?
Thanks!
Jason
Hi Jason,
That they have invited you to come in twice indicates that they are very seriously considering your application — and likely want to see how much of a cultural fit you are for the company — as well as to gauge how much you understand the position.
Good luck and keep us posted.
All the Best,
Chandlee
I recently had an interview which I thought went well. When I was going over the job description (after the interview) I realized that the interviewer had asked me very detailed questions about skills/techniques which the job description said “basic knowledge/understanding of xzy preferred (not required)” I didn’t mind because I knew the answers. I was just wondering if that is common practice? I recently graduated and I am looking for a job and this is one of the first interviews for a job in my field of study. It just threw me off a little because the job description made it sound like only basic knowledge was required for the position.
Thank you!!
Mae
Mae,
Unfortunately, this happens sometimes. Employers will require a basic understanding of an application because they don’t know whether or not they will be able to identify potential candidates with skills in a particular area, and then they find — and hire — candidates who have advanced proficiency in the skill. This could be what happened, or asking the advanced questions could just be their way of assessing your abilities.
Either way, hiring can be a competitive process — so make sure that you have as many options as possible by applying for multiple opportunities that align with your skills and experience.
Good luck to you and all the very best…Thanks for stopping by.
Chandlee
Hi there
I went for an interviewed on Monday, it was a 1st round interviewed. I was called for the 2nd round interview the next day. Both interviewed went well. But the GM who interviewed me for the 2nd round interview told me they still have other candidates to be interviewed. He asked me when I can start work and also mentioned I should hear the news by this week. After the 2nd interviewed, I sent out a thank you emailed. Soon I received a replied emailed informing me that I will be inform on the development in due course.
I’m so clueless. I need this job badly. What do you think? Please help….
Thank You.
Regards
Anna
Anna,
It sounds to me as if you have no reason to think that you are not still in the running for this job though I still would not count on being offered the job yet.
As with any job search, if you need a job badly, your best chance of landing one is to have as many options possible — so I recommend continuing your search as you wait to hear back from this one.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
the interviewer said the want me they will submit the paper work to the hr deartment for approval.tey also so they will call my current department internal for reference which i know they did it was a good report they said “which is the same company for advancement”what is my chances
Those all sound like positive indicators that you may be offered a job to me, but naturally — we can’t say what your chances are since we don’t work at the company where you interviewed and aren’t privy to the information.
Good luck and keep us posted.
Best,
Chandlee
Had an interview for a job i really really like. Was successful, apparently. Kept following up for three weeks. Finally i received an email saying this:
“Sorry I didn’t take your call last week but I was in meetings.
The feedback from our meeting is that we have discounted some candidates but others that we interviewed remain possibles, including yourself. We are looking to make a final decision in a couple of weeks and I will keep you updated with progress and let you know if we need anything further from you.” We were 7 interviewees in all.
Couple of weeks. Is this still a good sign? Please advise me – how long can i wait till i start following up again. In the interim what can i do so far as this job is concerned? Anything.
Tony,
The decision making process inside the company has nothing to do with you. I recommend not following up again. They know how to contact you and it sounds like they are still interested. Stand by and keep looking at other jobs to make sure you have as many opportunities as possible.
Good luck!
Best,
Chandlee
Roger: Call up HR and ask when you can be scheduled for your drug testing and final paperwork. Nothing wrong with being assertive.
If the company is giving you the Drug test that is good sign you have job. Just don’t piss it away with some drug!
I had an interview last week at the hospital for medical equip tech. The HR first photocopied my diploma and took my references and we went to the hiring manager for my interview. We passed by 3 buildings on which the hospital has inter-connection from building to building. The interview went well, actually the manager did not asked that much on my resume, he told me they already reviewed my application and he just telling me about nature of the job, some history of the department and whats their plan. My biggest concern was after the interview he wanted me to go back to HR person, but when I get back to the human resources dept, the HR person already left, and the people from the reception area just told me to wait for the call. I wanted to go back to the hiring manager but Im already forgotten the way back. I dont know how long should I wait before I will make a phone call to the HR for follow up?
Any Advice?
Roger,
I recommend you call the HR department today and follow-up — let them know “I was brought to HR to do paperwork, but you had already gone today” — is there anything I need to do to follow up and complete my application? How can I help?
If they need you to come in to fill out the paperwork, they will tell you — and then you can go in and get it done.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
is it fine to ask to be notified if ever I will not be getting the job? Thanks.
Hi Roger,
Yes, you can certainly ask to be notified what your status is — either way. Not all companies will tell you, and that is too bad. Another way to tell when a job has been pulled is when the listing disappears from a site. Typically that means it has been filled.
But for now, just follow up.
Good luck.
Best,
Chandlee
Thanks for the comments. One more thing, is it an indication you already get the job if your references already called by the company?
Thanks a lot!
Roger,
It’s a very good sign if your references have been called by the company but it doesn’t guarantee that you will get the offer. Good luck and please keep us posted.
All the Best,
Chandlee
I had a phone interviewed with a DM of a retail store and I felt it went well.
Dm then mentioned he would like for me to speak with another store
manager who was visiting the store the followinh week. I agreed and met
With the store manager who is also a regional trainer for that company.
The interview was a hit, i enjoyed the interview very much. Then she said
That the dm would call me next week when he would come down to visit
the store. He did visit the store but he did not call. The strange thing
for me was that he passed by my store a couple of times and stood in front
Looking towards the inside od the store. The dm did this several times
in the two days the dm was there visiting his store. The whole time talking
On the phone. What does it mean? Should I habe called him?
Charlotte,
It is quite likely that the company has policies and a protocol for visiting a store and that he may have been following those protocols, and looking for things that the company has asked him to look for.
I recommend calling them back this week just to express your continued interest in the position and to ask when you might expect follow-up.
Good luck.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Hi!
I am not sure if anyone has any advice for me… But I recently applied to an internal job position within my company at head office, I am qualified and have everything they are looking for. They called my general manager the morning they got my resume. They said they would be making calls the next week… it is the next week and I know monday is a busy day for them..it is wed. I have not got a call… does this mean I can kiss my chances good-bye? or is it possible they would still not have made calls for interviews? I know I seem impatient, However I am just not sure if it is protocall to call about all aplicants or if they would call out of interest.
Any advice would help.
Fennek,
I think it is fine to call the head office and ask them about your status of the position and the job search. Let me know if I can provide additional assistance on this.
Good luck and all the best,
Chandlee
Thank you for your reply,
I think I can mention it to my GM first to see if he knows if calls have been made yet. I just dont know why they would call him and ask about me if they werent interested in interviewing me… or could it be they call all managers when people from within apply…I got excited and my GM thought this would be a good stepping stone for me… which I assume he told them that when they called, but I still have not got a call…
Fennek,
As I’ve said before on Work Coach Cafe, often the hiring process takes quite a long time inside companies. I don’t think that “no follow-up” call necessarily means that they are not interested. I’d recommend following up now but waiting up to another two weeks before you assume that the company is not interested.
Good luck,
Chandlee
I Had an interview as a Department Supervisor at a major hardware store.
I thing i did pretty good, but did get a lil caught up or blank on one question.I know im qualified, I have 2 years of supervisor experience and a business degree, but I am freshly 21 and I dont know if that is a bit young.
The thing that concerns me is that it seemed to go too fast. He reviewd my resume and availability and asked his 5 or 6 position questions and said hed call all the interviewee’s at the end of the week.
Any advice?
John,
Follow-up with a thank you note quickly. Make sure your spelling and grammar is perfect, and let your interviewer know that you remain interested in the position.
If you don’t hear back from them within two weeks, follow up directly and inquire about your status. If not hired, ask what would make you a stronger candidate next time.
For a major hardware store, another factor that may go into the process is a knowledge of hardware. If you haven’t worked in that field before, don’t be surprised if they go with someone who has worked in hardware in the past.
Good luck and keep us posted.
Best,
Chandlee
Although it’s good to send a thank-you note after an interview, too much follow-up can kill your chances. Calling or emailing multiple times to check up on the status of your application will make you look desperate and will likely get on the employer’s nerves. I think it’s best if you wait for your interviewer’s call.
Hi Nicole,
I agree with you: Following up too much isn’t likely to help your chances, but I’d also venture to say that you should always follow-up immediately after an interview with a thank you note. And it’s fine to follow up once just to reiterate your interest.
Thanks for weighing into the discussion.
All the Best,
Chandlee
What if you don’t know where to send a thank-you note? I applied for a state position (interview was last Wednesday), and I have no idea where the thank-you note would be sent. Every step of the thus-far-2-month pre-employment stage has taken place in a different building, and there are hundreds of specific facilities in which I could ultimately be placed in. Also, paid pre-job training will be in yet another building.
Hi Jon,
If you don’t know a physical location to send a thank you note, send it via email.
If you don’t have names to send thank you notes to — I think it would be okay not to worry about it. Sounds like a complicated process, but government jobs can be great ones if they are the right fit.
Good luck.
Best,
Chandlee
Hi Susan & Chandlee,
I sent my resume for a sales associate position at the Moma Design Store on the 1st and received an email from the head manager on the 3rd stating the job qualification, hours and salery and asked me to come in to discuss the job and my qualifications. I went to the interview on thurdsday and was interviewed by the staff manager and was sent up and interviewed by the head manager. I believe it went well, we were laughing and relaxed with each other, it lasted about 40 minutes, she asked me how my schedule was and for my references. We shook hands and said the HR derpartement will contact my references and will make a decision. I went home sent a thank you letter via email. I am really want the job, how long do you tink I should wait to follow up?!
Thank you ladies
Fabiola
Fabiola,
I recommend waiting until at least next week to follow-up. And in the future, never put the name of a company where you applied on a website — you don’t need to tell us where you applied and we’d rather see you preserve your privacy.
Susan and I are both strong privacy advocates. A great museum design store in New York will suffice as a description!
Good luck with your search.
Best,
Chandlee
Hi Susan & Chandlee,
I posted a couple of weeks ago about a job I am trying to get. It will be 3 weeks tomorrow
since I had my 2nd interview. I have followed up twice and finally got a response from
another HR assistant last Wednesday after she promised to update me. The other HR
woman just ignored my e-mail. She said that the hiring manager has still not made a
decision yet. Something just smells fishy here. She did not say when or if he will be making
one. Should I follow up one more time this week? Should I just e-mail the hiring manager
and tell him I am still interested or just consider this job dead in the water? I am still looking
hard but this job is a good fit and the commute is 6 miles. What is your advice? They
said they were definitely making a decision 2 weeks ago. They are very vague when I talk to them?
Thanks!
Hi Kimberly,
If the HR office had offered the position to someone else and closed the search, they would have told you that the position was closed.
It is not uncommon for job searches to take much longer than anticipated inside companies — months in fact. This is because there is a process most companies must follow when hiring. Just as their is paperwork for a new employee to complete, there is paperwork — and an internal approval process — required to hire at many companies.
You don’t need to follow up one more time, I recommend you simply sit tight and wait to hear back. (In the meantime, continue to explore other opportunities. I share this advice with all candidates — never give up your search until you have accepted an offer.)
Good luck with the process.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Thanks, Chandlee
I understand that it can take longer than expected but the hiring manager told me
that they were definitley making a decision 2 weeks ago! I think they may have hired
someone internally or decided not to fill this position at this particular time.
Either that or maybe they are interviewing more candidates although the post is no longer up.
I know it takes time, but never this long in my experience and it iis lengthy.
Thank you, Chanlee
Best Wishes,
Kimberly
Kimberly,
Sounds as though you have done all that you can do. Be patient. Often the final sign-off on hiring approval is not the hiring manager but someone in a position above them. This is why searches often take longer.
Good luck to you.
All the Best,
Chandlee
I had a second interview yesterday for a human resources position with a well-known music company. Maybe it’d be best if I start from the beginning…
I applied to the company last Tuesday (4/24) through SimplyHired.com. Within 20 minutes of my submission, I received a call from a recruiter from the firm. We chatted for a couple of minutes (I assume to get a feel for my personality) until he invited me to meet with for an interview that Thursday (4/26). Everything went very well. It was comfortable, it was pleasant, and I could feel that he and I had a very good connection throughout the interview. At the end of the interview, he said I should expect to receive a call from him sometime after that weekend with regards to a second interview with the actual hiring manager (who also happens to be the senior vice president of human resources for the entire firm). To my surprise, he called me the day after (Friday, 4/27), asking if yesterday (5/3) would be a good day for me to meet with [the hiring manager].
The hiring manager is a very busy woman. I could see from the disarray of her office, the bags under her eyes, and her on-screen weekly schedule (that she willingly shared with me) that it was crucial for her itinerary to be followed. At the same time, I didn’t feel as though she rushed through the interview at all, as she and I talked for AN HOUR (that i could see she carefully dedicated to me) about the company, its structure, the roles and duties I would undertake were I to be hired, and my past experiences with previous employers. Though I didn’t initially find her as warm and receptive as the recruiter, I knew that was because she was simply torn in so many directions within her own position. I let her know that I acknowledged the difficulties she must face having to answer to so many people and be responsible for so many duties, which I believe she appreciated. She nodded and smiled from time to time, took quite a bit of notes on the copy of my résumé i handed her, and I believe she was sincerely impressed with how I managed to attend college full-time while also holding a full-time job.
In retrospect, the signs point to where it looks as though I did very well. She mentioned that she was going to go back to the original recruiter and exchange notes and feedback with him regarding my answers from yesterday and the first interview. At this point she handed me her business card and said that I should also expect to hear from her “sometime after NEXT week,” considering she had many other priorities and meetings with important people that filled her entire schedule (which, again, I saw for myself on her Microsoft Outlook calendar). I asked her if it would be OK for me to follow up with her if I did not receive a response at that time. She said she would appreciate it.
As I read everything I type here, I think I’m in a very good position, as I’m confident that the recruiter has my back on this one. That being said, I find myself dwelling so much on what else I think I should’ve said during the second interview. How do you all feel about this? Am I right to be paranoid, or is it ok for me to hold on to the hope that I just may land this job?
Ask me anything if you need more information about yesterday’s interview. Any and all feedback is greatly appreciated,
Jesse,
Wow! Sounds like you’ve had quite a busy few days — and that you are under consideration for the job.
I’d take the feedback from the recruiter and the hiring manager at their words — you’ve no reason to believe you aren’t in the running. That said, two things:
1. Keep up your job search as you wait to hear back. That way, if you don’t get the job — you will still have other irons in the fire.
2. If you do get offered the job, ask a few more questions before you take the job — you may want to see if you can talk to others who’ve worked for the company — do they have bags under their eyes and always busy schedules, too? Find out what the routine typically looks like and make sure the job feels right to you.
It seems to me that you focused very much on how you were doing, it’s also important to take the time to check out the company.
Good luck!
Chandlee
So it’s been over a week since I’ve heard anything from either the recruiter or the hiring manager. I’m not exactly stressing since I was told I should hear from them sometime THIS week, but I’m already thinking about what I should say in the event that I don’t hear from them by Tuesday.
Question #1: Who should I contact? Should I send a follow-up message to the recruiter, the hiring manager, or both of them? What exactly should I say, and if I should get in touch with both people, how should I tailor the message for each of them?
Question #2: How should I contact them? E-mail is the corporate standard nowadays, but I was wondering if it’d prudent of me to call them instead.
What do you guys think? Again, I’m give them until Tuesday to respond to the last interview, so Wednesday would be the target date for me to reach out to them. Is that a good idea?
Hi Jesse,
I’d wait until Thursday or Friday to reach out — and then I’d give them a call and simply reiterate your interest in the job.
Following up is unlikely to push the hiring timeline along or make it more likely they will hire you in particular, so I recommend you follow up with a phone call towards the end of THIS WEEK which is most likely to give you the information you need (i.e. are you still in the running) immediately when you’ve asked for it…
I know it’s tough but be patient, and keep your job search open in the interim — until you’ve accepted an offer, you should make sure that you are in the running for as many potential options as possible.
All the Best,
Chandlee
I sent an E-mail to the recruiter yesterday in an attempt to follow up with the availability of the position. Here is the message I sent:
Good afternoon, Mr. B.
It’s coming on 4 weeks since we last spoke about your company’s need for a human resources specialist. At that time, I was told that your department would be making a decision to act soon, since the need to fill the role was urgent. As I have not yet heard back from either you or Ms. M, I am unsure if I am still under consideration for this position. If the position is still open, I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate my interest in working with you at XYZ company.
Perhaps it may be worthwhile to meet once again and explore the ways in which I could benefit your company? If you agree, I can be reached at (555) 555-5555 or at xxxxxxxx@xxxxx.com. I sincerely look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you very kindly for your all of your time consideration.
………………………………………………
Here is the reply I received:
Hi Jesse,
The job is still open and we are actively interviewing other candidates. Unfortunately that’s all the information I can share with you at this point.
Regards,
Mr. B
…………………………………………..
How should I interpret this? :-/
Hi Rich
I got the job. i am really excited
Thank you so much for your help and advise
Good luck to you as well
Hi I had a panel interview today. There were 6 nicu members asking me questions. At the end one of them walked me out. He said,”you did fine, well let you know in a few days” does that mean it didn’t go well?
Hi Lauren,
If they said you did fine, I’d take that as a positive. Either way, you should follow-up with a thank you and let them know you’re still interested. Hopefully you will hear a yes in a few days…
Best,
Chandlee
I had an interview for a wonderful position with an awesome company. I believe it went really well. I sent a thank you email to my would be supervisor the same day, and a follow up email the next week. They sent me an employment application and consent for background check form, which I sent back within the day. A week later I haven’t heard anything back.
While being interviewed by the HR manager she indicated the position I applied for was one that was very sought after. This left me with the impression they’re looking for a certain amount of enthusiasm and interest from an applicant. My question is should I follow up again, if so how should I go about doing so?
Also, the application and consent from was sent to me AFTER my follow up email. I believe if I had not contacted HR I would not have heard from them.
Hi Tinesa,
I don’t think the employer would have sent you a formal application and consent form if they did not continue to be interested in the possibility of being hired.
If the position you’ve applied for is a “sought after one,” that generally means that the employer is likely getting multiple applications for the position. Therefore, if you choose to follow-up — go beyond “I’m writing to confirm that you’ve received my application and consent form” and add additional information such as a newspaper clipping that relates directly to the company or the job you’d be doing — or something that demonstrates your interest in the work and ability to do the job…
Good luck with the process, and as always — make sure that you continue your job search until you’ve received and accepted a written offer.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Hi there – I had what I felt was a great interview a few days ago. They said the hiring process would take three weeks due to the interviewers traveling etc. My question is, is it the kiss of death if one of the gentlemen I spoke to wished me luck on my job search or am I just reading into it too much? I had this happen once before and I did not get the job.
Hi Yvonne,
Don’t read too much into the comment. Job interviews are tough from the employer’s perspective is there as only so much they can say when they enjoyed meeting you.
They cannot, for example, say, “Can’t wait to work with you” if they are still interviewing other candidates. I’d leave it as, “he wished you well in general” — especially if he was one of several people you spoke to.
Make sure you send a thank you note and let them know you remain interested, and — as always — continue your job search until you’ve been offered and formally accepted the position.
Thank you Chandlee! I did indeed mail thank you cards to everyone I interviewed with that morning. I know the trend seems to be thank you emails but I prefer note cards siimply because I feel most people’s inboxes are already filled to capacity. And maybe they are not so quick to “delete” them as well. : ) Thanks again!
Hi Rich,
I applied for a Transaction Processing Specialist position at chase bank, Phone interview went well, then i had face to face interview with four managers, it took almost two hours to go through the interview.i believe the interview went well and at the end of the interview, last manager says that the recruiter should contact you within two weeks, and today is the end of the two weeks. waiting and suspense killing me should i call them tomorrow, any advise would be appreciated thanks
Hey Nomy,
Based on what you’ve written I’d say you should contact the recruiter whenever you please. That’s the positive in getting jobs through a recruiter in my opinion; There’s a bit of separation between them and the employer. So there’s no such thing as over communicating. It’s there job to do placement, keep in mind they stand to gain almost as much as you do if you get the job, and subsequently should always have open dialogue with you. Plus, there’s nothing wrong with showing enthusiasm about the job, inquiring shows you are eager and that this isn’t just another interview you went on.
As far as the interview process goes, I’ve gone through the same thing, which is probably what led the both of us to the site, angst about the job. I’ve read some sites saying such a long interview can be standard, however I don’t buy it. Employers won’t waste time, especially their team’s time on an applicant they don’t have a good hunch about. If you weren’t qualified, why would they waste theirs and your time taking up 2 hours plus of your day? Did you send a thank you email to them? If not, I suggest you do so. Try to keep it short and to the point; thank them for the opportunity and interest, and re-state your excitement about the position.
I can totally hear you in regard to the suspense, I frantically check my emails throughout the days looking for something from them, and quite frankly it sucks having to wait, but reassure yourself that they could be eager to hire you to. I think we as job seekers tend to think the excitement factor is only a one way street, when in fact, employers are just as competitive. They want people they like and that are qualified, and when they find someone who fills those quotas, they want to snatch them up before someone else does. Hope this helps!
Thanks Rich i called recruiter on the 27th of April and the recruiter seems pretty interesting in me and sounds like she is waiting for some document, it was brief phone call and she said that “Your interview went well and i am just waiting for some documents, i may contact you on Friday , but don’t count me or may be next week” Now i don’t know what exactly she is saying here, its been a week now, what do you suggest?
Thanks again you have been really helpful i truly appreciate your help and best of luck to you as well
You are absolutely right here Rich
If candidate happen to be not qualified why waste time, and i am100% agree with you that big fortune companies don’t waste that much time to make a decision, but i have read some articles that a bigger company takes much longer compare to the smaller companies. It kind a make sense because of the size of the company.
Hi Nomy,
I’d give them until the end of the week, the follow-up. Hiring processes often take longer than expected inside companies.
Good luck!
Best,
Chandlee
Thank you so much chandlee
so i called her on 27th of April and the recruiter seems pretty interesting in me and sounds like she is waiting for some document, it was brief phone call and she said that “Your interview went well and i am just waiting for some documents, i may contact you on Friday , but don’t count me or may be next week” Now i don’t know what exactly she is saying here, its been a week now, what do you suggest?
Thanks again you have been really helpful i truly appreciate your help
Hi Nomy,
Give it an additional ten days and then follow up again. The company knows where to find you. Again, hiring processes often take longer than you might expect.
Good luck!
Hi Chandlee
I got a call yesterday afternoon and they offer me a job & i accept it. now the paperwork and then training but thank God i got the job,
Thank you so much for your support and valuable answers.
and Good luck to you as well.
Nomy,
What fantastic news! Congratulations…Now go study up on how to have a great start as a new employee….
All the Best,
Chandlee
So, I applied for a Markerting Position at a large scale tech support software company. My initial phone interview lasted roughly 30 minutes, and I received a call about 10 minutes afterward scheduling me for an in person interview. I had the interview last week, and it lasted 2 hours and 15 minutes, meeting with 6 other marketing team members along with the HR rep I spoke to over the phone. Am I crazy to have a high hopes of landing this position? I feel that I wouldn’t have met with the entire team had the Marketing Director I met with first not felt I was qualified for the opening. I even met with the VP at the end of the meeting. I tend to think I interview well, so a third part perspective on the situation would help me decide if my hopes are correct. I even made a leave behind of a cd of some music I listen at work for the people I met with which seemed to be a nice touch that was received well. Am I crazy to think I’ve got a high percentage chance of landing this job or is it just wishful thinking?
Hi Rich,
Based on the length of your interview, it sounds to me like you are — at least — a finalist for the position. Typically, most companies will not invite more than four or five candidates in for a lengthy job interview. That means you’re certainly in the running.
My question wouldn’t be” Am I crazy to have high hopes of landing this position? Instead it would be: “How can I further strengthen my application to get hired?” And one of the best ways you can do that is to follow-up and provide the employer with representative samples of your work. While providing a CD of music you enjoy is a creative idea, you may find that you get a faster response from employers when you submit a sample of your work that demonstrates your ability to do the job — and that shows you have a strong understanding of what the job would entail. So in this case, I’d recommend a sample of your work in marketing. A CD sample might be one from a band you helped market — and then share the results they had from your marketing campaign. Example: We did ____, and got 2,000 YouTube views in 48 hours.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Thanks Chandlee!,
I probably should have mentioned that I also sent out thank you emails to all 6 people I interviewed with, and sent writing samples to the manager that asked for them. I got responses from 3 of them all of which wrote back to me candidly rather than a blanket emaik. One of which was the HR rep I had a phoner with for my first interview. I got an out of office response from her Monday advising that she would be out of the office until Friday, but was rather happy when I saw she wrote back to me early Tuesday morning, remotely I assume, saying, “it was a pleasure to meet you! I will get back to you soon.” To say that I am sitting on pins and needles would be an understatement. I just hope that what seems to me like a great interview process thus far leads to where I think it is, am I crazy for assuming that I have a good chance at the job based on my first post about and this one?
Rich,
I’d say you have a good chance but I’d keep looking as well — this is my advice to all candidates who are waiting to hear back. One reason why this is so — sometimes circumstances at the company change while they are looking to hire — and companies decide not to hire at all…
You should always control as many variables during the hiring process as you can — and one way to do that is to keep applying even when your dream job appears to be in reach.
Best,
Chandlee
Thanks, Susan. Would the end of the day today be to early to inquire??
They said beginning of the week. I was the last of 3 candidates and my
interview was last Wednesday.
Kim,
I’d suggest waiting two days and then checking in on Wednesday. Give them a little bit of leeway — on the inside, wrapping up the final stages of a hiring process requires paperwork, sign-offs and final approvals. Good luck.
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee & Susan,
I sent an e-mail to the HR woman yesterday and this is the response I got.
“Kimberly –
A decision has not been reached at this time. I apologize for the delayed process.
Best regards,
What do you think this means? SO brief. Should I e-mail Hiring manager if I don’t hear
anything by Friday?
Thanks!
Kimberly
Kimberly,
I wouldn’t read anything into the comment. When I worked as a recruiter, I was taught to answer all potential candidates for a job in a neutral tone — even if they were the top candidate for the position.
I would give the employer at least a week before you follow up again — and as, always, continue your search in the interim. Would it be nice to have a second job offer as well so that you have greater negotiating power if it is offered?
Best,
Chandlee
Hi Susan,
I had 2 interviews for a Buyer position. The second interview was this past Wednesday.
I know a woman that worked there and is still very close with the hiring manager and
even recommended they interview me at a lunch she had with him. I interviewed both
times with the Materials Manager & the Purchasing Manager (they sat together in each
interview). On the second interview, I met with 2 additional people who interface with the
position. They said they were very impressed w/my resume and experience. I thought
the interview went well. After the interview with these 2 people, the Mat’ls manager &
Purchasing manager came back in. They talked more about the position. I would
say the entire interview lasted 1-1/2 hours. The Purchasing manager gave me a short
tour after the first interview and another one after the second interview. They told
me that they would make a decision next week. I know I am up against 2 other candidates.
I did not get an excessivley warm and fuzzy feeling from the hiring manager but that is just his personality I believe. I really don’t know where I stand. The other two candidates interview lasted
a bit over an hour. I peeked at the sign in log. Any feelings? I so hope I get it. The commute
is 6 miles from home vs 30 miles I do now. I would hope I would hear today, being that this
job needs to be filled asap. Maybe they picked someone else and will notify me next week
with bad news….ugh…hate this! ANY ADVICE! Thanks!!!
Hi Susan,
I had 2 interviews for a Buyer position. The second interview was this past Wednesday. I know a woman that worked there and is still very close with the hiring manager and even recommended they interview me at a lunch she had with him. I interviewed both times with the Materials Manager & the Purchasing Manager (they sat together in each interview). On the second interview, I met with 2 additional people who interface with the position. They said they were very impressed w/my resume and experience. I thought the interview went well. After the interview with these 2 people, the Mat’ls manager & Purchasing manager came back in. They talked more about the position. I would say the entire interview lasted 1-1/2 hours. The Purchasing manager gave me a short tour after the first interview and another one after the second interview. They told me that they would make a decision next week. I know I am up against 2 other candidates. I did not get an excessivley warm and fuzzy feeling from the hiring manager but that is just his personality I believe. I really don’t know where I stand. The other two candidates interview lasted a bit over an hour. I peeked at the sign in log. Any feelings? I so hope I get it. The commute is 6 miles from home vs 30 miles I do now. I would hope I would hear today, being that this job needs to be filled asap. Maybe they picked someone else and will notify me next week with bad news….ugh…hate this! ANY ADVICE!
Thanks!!!
Hi Kimberly,
It sounds like things went well! I think your chances are very good, but, no guarantees, of course.
It is a VERY big advantage to have an advocate “on the inside” – increases your chances of being hired substantially. They may not even go through the reference checking step because of this woman, although I would definitely be prepared with a list of people who will give you a good reference. Prepare those people, too, for a possible call. Let them know when/if you submit their names.
They told you they’d have a decision “next week” – that could be Friday! Or the following Tuesday! Or…
PLEASE also be prepared to wait more time than they have said it will take. It almost always takes more time than they think it will on the other side of the desk. “Work happens” – emergencies, business travel, training, people out sick or on vacation, etc. – all seeming more urgent than making a decision about filling a job.
Keep yourself too busy to think about this – paint your bathroom, take up knitting, write a book, learn to juggle, etc.
And, if you want a different job, keep looking!
Good luck!
Susan
Hi Susan
I did a followed up this morning, called the HR lady. She informed me I did not get the job. But,
I really dont understand, my interviewed was held late Friday afternoon. The interviewer told me the outcome of the interview will not be so soon, as he and the team will be flying of the next Monday morning and away for 3 weeks. Moreover there will be also a second interview. Now she said the position has been offered to someone else. I really don’t know. Is he interviewing me just to meet the target nos of interviews?
What do you think?
Hi Anna,
Sorry that fell through for you! It’s hard to tell what really happened, and you’ll probably never find out. But, at least you won’t be wondering about this opportunity now.
My guess is that you didn’t make it past the first round for some reason. And, rather than tell you that, they told you that the job was filled. It will be filled, but not by you, and perhaps they didn’t want to keep you waiting and hoping for an outcome that wasn’t going to happen for you. Kinder than just letting you wonder for the next 3 or 4 weeks, in my opinion.
Or, maybe someone who interviewed after you did really knocked their socks off and was hired on the spot. Doesn’t happen often, but it does happen.
So, chalk it up to experience, learn what you can from it, and move on. Easier to write or to say than to do, but that’s my recommendation to you. Keep looking!
Good luck!
Susan
At the end of every interview for a job I’ve always felt unsure about how well I did. I have had 3 in-person interviews and 2 interviews over the phone. I have landed 4 jobs this way (the three in-person interviews, and one of the over the phone interviews). Three weeks ago I had another over the phone interview, and once again I’m unsure about how it went. I called last Friday because that was the hiring date they had given me. However, I was told that the deadline was extended and no new date was given. This alleviated my anxiety somewhat, but now that there’s no closure, I find myself constantly thinking about it. It’s a huge promotion and would require me to move across the country.
My method has always been to show how personable I am – crack a few jokes, tell anecdotes about how well I work with others, blah blah. Nobody seemed to find me funny over the phone. This has happened to me before in interviews where I still got the job, including a phone interview where I felt awkward, stumbled over every sentence, and was sweating bullets they couldn’t see. I was doing the interview outside in the 100 degree weather… yeesh.
I guess the point I’m trying to make is that even if you feel as though you bombed the interview, there’s always a chance. I’ve never felt as though I was getting a job for sure after an interview, but it has turned up in my favor more often than not.
Glad to hear that, Keefer! Thanks for sharing.
Good luck!
Susan
I got the rejection email today 🙁 Oh well….you win some you loose some
Sorry to hear that you received a rejection email. Don’t be afraid to respond to the email (if it is an address that allows response) with a short note that thanks the company for their consideration for the job.
If you’ve interviewed for the opportunity and think that you were perceived as overqualified, don’t be afraid to express your disappointment and say what you think you would have learned from the role if you had been hired. True story: One job seeker I know actually reversed the employer’s decision and GOT HIRED using this tactic. It’s rare, but if you find yourself in this situation you can do it. Good luck!
Hi, I just finished reading your article. I went for an interview at the Tmobile Call Center they were all really nice and seemed interested and they would ask questions after my stories to get my details and they nodded their head alot smiled and seemed impressed with me…as I walked in I said hello and shook their hands(it was two of them) And gave them both a copy of my resume and talked about all my experience..Do you think I got the job? I sorta messed up a little but should that affect anything?
Dear Susan
I had an interview last week on Friday after office hours. Interviewed went well. The interviewer kept on praising me and said I have the job experience for this post. We even talked about personal issues.
I asked him, when can I hear from them on the outcome. He mentioned it will be not so soon as he and the team will be away for 3 weeks. I have sent him the thank you email the next day.
But I think I have made an error on the thank you emailed, instead of sending directly to him, I cc to him.
The direct emailed I sent it to the HR staff who called me for the interview. I seriously wonder if it will affect my opportunity to get the job offer.
Please help !!!
I had a job interview Wednesday 11th April for a jewellery visual merchandiser, she said I was nice and early for my interview and I had the experience, and she is aiming to make a decision by the end of the week, sadly I haven’t heard anything oh well I’ll keep trying.
Hey Nina – don’t give up so quickly! Employers often don’t meet their own deadlines in “making a decision” – sometimes they miss it by months.
Give her a call next week and ask her what the status of this job is. Don’t be surprised to find out that she’ll have a decision “by the end” of that week.
Stay in touch, without being a nuisance, and you could be pleasantly surprised.
Good luck!
Susan
Hi i recently went for an interview for call centre position i believe it went well every question i answered the he told me i will hear from the on the same day 02 april 2012 but the lady in
hr said it might take 2 weeks to get a feedback
Hi Precious,
My bet is that it will take a while for them to get back to you, as the HR person told you.
So, keep looking!
Good luck!
Susan
hello susan,
i had an interview today as sales associate, the interviewer enumerated the job scope to me. What a sales associate should do and even told me that they will be providing the uniform, she then ask me if I have any other questions. Is this a good sign?
thank you.
Hi luvelyn,
Yes, it is a good sign, but it is not a guarantee. If you need a job, keep looking!
Good luck!
Susan
Hi. My name is Barb. I was called for the first interview of a really big job offer lat Tuesday and I prepared a mini presentation highlighting some of my experience in the area of the job.
The interviewer said the following to me
‘this is so impressive. You have blown my mind. I have been interviewing for ten year s and no one has ever done anything like this before. He said he knows it’s cheating but I am best he has seen so far.’
After all that he paused and asked me how soon can you come in for a second interview. He knew I lived far and he said ok you know what wait here and he went and brought the second interviewer out from a meeting to see me. So essentially I had both interviews at once. I was stunned and humbled at how everything went. One of the interviewers asked me how soon could I start and how much I wanted. It was so amazing.
But after my high I panicked. The second set of interviews for others are this week and my nerves are in. What do you think?.
Hi Barb!
This is a great start! Congratulations on the mini-presentation idea – excellent way to stand out from the crowd in the current job market!
Don’t go into this interview assuming you have the job “in the bag.” Because you don’t have a job offer. Yet. Be business-like, professional, and well-prepared, as you were for the first interview.
Now, prepare for the second set of interviews like you prepared for the first. Some questions to help you prepare:
* Can you update your presentation?
If you left a copy of your presentation with the first interviewer, expect that the others MAY have already seen it (or may not, depending on how busy they were). Be prepared to make your presentation again for each interviewer.
* Can you find out more about the people who will be interviewing you?
If you have names, you can Google/Bing them to see what is available about them online. And, be sure review their personal LinkedIn Profiles.
* Have you visited this employer’s LinkedIn Company Profile?
If the company has a LinkedIn Profile (and non-companies have them too, like non-profits, governments, etc.), check it out. It has an amazing amount of information in it.
** See who you are connected to within the company, current and former employees.
If you are connected to anyone who worked there in the past, those people will show up on the company page, and you could contact them to see what working there is like. Current employees can also be good sources of information about an employer, and LinkedIn will show those to you as well. New hires can help you understand what the interview process is like.
** Check out the information on the “insightful statistics” page. The link to insightful statistics is in the right column of the Company Profile page, below the ‘How you are connected to…” information.
The insightful statistics pages help you understand much more about the company, including where the people who work there went to school, what functions are most important, where people worked before they worked at this company, and MUCH more.
Go into this interview with the confidence that if this job doesn’t work out for you, a better job is waiting. Because that IS true! Then, do your best to knock their socks off, again!
Good luck!
Susan
Thanks Susan for the kind words and the quick response.
The thing is I already had the second interview that same day. Like I said the first interviewer said he was so impressed that he got the second person to interview that same day so I have now done both interviews. I am a nervous wreck despite all their kind words.
Since the second interview process was actually meant for this coming week it means I have to wait till next week or longer to see if I got it. I will keep the faith and hope for the best. I am really glad I did the mini presentation. I left the copies for the interviewers to read so they will keep me in mind.
Hi Barbara,
So speaking with that second person was the total “second interview process” you need to go through? Lucky you!
Keep job hunting! This sounds/feels very promising, but you never know until you have that job offer in your hand, so keep looking.
Hope this works out for you!
Good luck!
Susan
Hi Susan
Just wanted to give an update.
I got this response:
‘Overall positive and he would like to see again if there are other roles’.
‘Exceedingly well presented and well prepared candidate and good product knowledge, and ability to expand in detail’
After all that I did not get the job. I am really upset about it and I need your input. If I was so amazing to the interviewer why did I not get the job?
Hi Barbara,
Bummer! Inexplicable things happen in job search, just like the rest of life. Perhaps they decided not to fill the job, or they hired an employee’s nephew (or someone else known to an employee).
Now, if you would still like to work there, send him a thank you. Tell him you enjoyed speaking with him (and the other person), you are very impressed with their business (if you are), and yes, you would definitely like them to keep you in mind for the next opening they have. If you are still available, you would be interested in speaking with them.
Don’t give up on your approach with your presentation! It might land you a job with your next interview, and it certainly makes you memorable.
Good luck!
Susan
Last week my daughter had her first interview in a fast food store. They asked her the regular questions in an interview. they explained to her about the uniforms, and workers permit. The interview lasted about 25 min. The manager even asked her to pick a customer and asked them about their experience in the restaurant, after all that the she said to my daughter that she usually doesn’t hire on the spot and that she think about the candidates before she makes a decision. Do you think she has a chance , should she call to check on the status of her application? My daughter was very honest in her answers and even mentioned of a vacation that she has in the middle of July.
So nearly a month has passed since my interview with a big hospital. Two weeks after the interview, I sent a professional follow up email, three days later, a phone call, and a week later, left a message…still, no response. The lady who interviewed me said to definitely keep in touch with her, yet when I do so I get blown off. I even called HR and they couldn’t tell me much, but to reach the person who interviewed me. The job is still posted on line. Should I just chalk this one up as a loss and move on? I had another interview today at a different hospital, and still applying everywhere until I get something full time…
I had an interview on Friday at a children’s clothing store. When I got there, the manager was busy and I waited about a half hour past my interview time. She then had the manager under me start the interview. She kept telling me how much she liked me and how great my answers were. She was very friendly and kept saying how much she’d love for me to be a part of their team. The other manager then came out and asked me a few more questions about my availability and she said that things seemed great and that she just had to check on what I requested to be paid vs. what they could actually pay me, but that she would call me with an offer on Monday. It is now Wednesday and I have not received a call. I know that she had mentioned that they were opening two new stores and that she’d be in another state the whole weekend, so I’ve guessed that maybe she has just been busy with that. I called and left a message thanking her for the interview on Tuesday. When should I check up again if she hasn’t reached me? And does it sound as if the interview did go well? When she said she was going to make an offer, I guess I just assumed that it went well and that I was getting the job. Now I’m concerned.
Hi Stacey,
Yes, it sounds like the interview went well. Too bad the manager was/is very busy. It would have been nice if you’d been able to talk with her more directly.
As long as this is a retail location, why don’t you stop by to see what is going on? See if you can get a couple of minutes with the manager to find out if she has any questions or concerns. If the manager isn’t there, find out what is going on – is the manager out sick, is she just incredibly busy opening up the new stores, etc.
Show how interested you are in the store. Ask the sales people (or the manager) – if they are NOT busy! – when the busiest times are, who the best customers are (as a category, not names), what are the most popular items? Look around at the customers – parents or grand parents? Any kids in the store? What makes the store different and stand out: quality? quantity? price? location? or something else?
**PERHAPS** IF you see something in the store that you might change – mention that to the manager. CAUTION! This can be VERY HIGH RISK, but it MIGHT show her that you would be an asset to her organization. Perhpas they could add a few high-end toys to increase sales opportunities (if there is room)? Or, perhaps put low cost baby toys closer to the cash register where someone might buy one on impulse? Or closer to the door, to lure people in? Or whatever you are pretty sure might increase sales…
Demonstrate your interest in this store, and you will stand out from other applicants.
Good luck!
Susan
Hello…
So, I had my third and last interview with the district manager of the clothing store I applied for…(Actually, I was scouted, I have a job but this would be a better job for me) I honestly couldn’t tell how it went. I couldnt really read the DM well. However, I asked him how long until I hear any response…he went onto say that he was pretty much a “consultant” and that the hiring would be up to the girls who interviewed me. The girls who interviewed me told me that they needed his approval to hire me…so I don’t know. He seemed like he liked me a lot. The interview lasted a while…probably about an hour. Are there any tell tale signs that would be a good thing to know if I possibly have the job? Any advice would be great.
Thanks,
Lauren
Hi Lawren,
What a long, agonizing process this has been for you! Good thing you have a job now, even if it’s not the greatest.
I would send the usual thank you to the DM, and then wait a day or two before I got back in touch with “the girls” to see what the next steps are, if any.
Then, you just wait. Stay in touch periodically (every week or so), but let them go through their process on their own time table. When you check in, ask if they have any questions or if there is anything then need from you – there probably won’t be, but it’s worth asking.
And, just wait…
Good luck!
Susan
So three weeks ago I interviewed at a top hospital, and it went well, as I stated before. I sent a follow up email two weeks after the interview, then followed up with a phone call three days later. I still received no response. The lady who interviewed me said to definitely keep in touch with her, yet I can’t seem to reach her. I’m not too worried about it, since the job is still posted online. What do you recommend? I am thinking about trying to contact HR, but I don’t think it is a good idea…
Hi Chantel,
Usually HR is the organization that manages the “administrivia” in the employment process, particularly in very large organizations, so I’m not sure why you don’t think it’s a good idea (something the interviewer said to you?).
I would keep reaching out via email every couple of weeks with maybe a contact via phone the weeks you don’t send an email. It can take a long time to go through all the steps necessary to get an offer letter issued, which may be what is going on here. So stay in touch and be patient.
If you don’t have a LinkedIn Profile yet, set one up, and see if you can network in to this hospital. There are also “alumni” groups for various ships and commands in the military you might want to connect with. I’m hoping that someone in this big hospital can provide you with some insight into what’s going on, and maybe get you on an inside track, although it sounded like the interview went very well.
Good luck!
Susan
Hi I had a job interview for a receptionist vacancy in a hotel, the interview was only about 20 minutes long
but quite casual, he basically stated about the job , I asked as many questions as I could think of he was about to say he had others to interview and would phone about the second interview stage. He then asked me if I wanted to come in for a second interview next week, do you think this sounds fairly promising how many get to second interview process?
Thanks for any comments
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
It sounds promising, but, of course, no guaranty until you get an official offer. And, it’s hard to say how many people get second interviews – interviews are time-consuming for the employer – so it depends on whether or not they are short a receptionist now, or preparing for one of the current receptionists to change jobs (promotion or departure).
I always like to ask why the job is open. It’s nice to hear that someone has been promoted because that could (!) indicate a nice career path within the company. You might want to ask that question in the next interview.
Good luck!
Susan
Hi!
I had an internal job interview for a new location/role and received positive feedback. After a week, I was told that they would get back to me if the position was decided to be staffed with an expat.
I do want an expat option, but would also consider a permanent move. At the same time, I do not want to indicate interest for a permanent move too early as that then blots out the possibility of the better-perked expat option. Along what lines could I phrase a response?
Hi Champ,
Hmmm… Interesting question.
Perhaps you could say something like, “I’m seriously considering the expat assignment because I’m considering the possibility – at some point in the future – of making a permanent move. But, starting as an expat would be the best way to find out if a permanent move could be what I wanted.”
Good luck!
Susan
Thanks Susan!
I had a job interview on Feb. 28th, and I believe it went well. I felt really comfortable about it. I answered all the questions that she asked. Even with most of my answers she would say oh glad you mentioned that because that was my next question and I would expand my answer. Also, alot of my responses she would give me feed back like saying she do the same thing and she pefer things that I perferred. She introduced me to the other staff memebers and also discussed the salary pay with me. She told me that she would hopefully have a decision by the end of the week which is today March 2. I also took a thank you letter up back to her. Did I do to much and should I call next week to do a follow up on my interview? Do you think those are good signs. I haven’t stopped looking because I don’t have an offer yet.
Hi Godisbeautiful,
It sounds like things went very well during and after the interview – all good signs. Following up with a thank you was very good. Now, your “job” is to give the hiring process some time to take place.
Notice that she said she would “hopefully have an answer by the end of the week.” She didn’t guarantee it!
Wait until this coming Thursday to contact her, if she hasn’t already contacted you. Be polite and business like. Remind her of your name, the job she interviewed you for, and when she interviewed you, just in case she doesn’t remember. Then, ask her the status of the job.
Good luck!
Susan
Thank you!!!
You’re welcome! Good luck!
Hi,
So as week ago today I went in for a job interview. It last 40 minutes. I interviewed with two people, and we all were very engaged in the whole process. They were very impressed with my experiences and told me that they would let me know in two weeks about their final decision. The one lady said she was finally happy to see someone like me because they kept getting people with no experience. She also mentioned that scrubs (its a medical position) are worn, and that for their candidates that they consider they send them a personality test, she said it was no big deal, the boss just likes everyone to have one, they even had to do it. So the next day I got invited to take the online personality test, compleated it. But before I got the email stating the invite I sent a thank you letter to one of the ladies ( I only had her contact info) but asked if she would be kind enough to extend by thanks to the other interviewer which she did. I got responses from both. They stated that they enjoyed meeting with me, and how they were impressed with my experience and professionalism. In the interview they asked me about my currently pay and told me to give them two weeks….are these good signs?
Hi LT,
Yes, those are very good signs. But keep looking until you have a written job offer in your hands.
Good luck!
Susan
I had a job interview last week at one of the best hospitals in the country…it’s for a part time evening position. They called and did an over the phone interview, two weeks later I was called in for an in person interview. I believe it went really well, because the manager was genuinely interested in getting to know me. She was happy that I brought in references too. She even asked me what I did in the military. She brought up pay and benefits, after I asked about how many days per week I would be working. She really took the time to answer all of my questions. At one point I interrupted her when I was sharing some experience in reference to a part of the job she was describing, and she didn’t mind because she said to me “I want to know everything about you”. I got a tour of the pharmacy, then afterwards, I was given a pay scale. I asked when I should expect to hear back from her, and she said “I will definitely get back in touch with you within one to two weeks”. I’m feeling pretty good about it, and my gut instinct is telling me that I got the job. What’s standing out the most is the fact that she gave me a pay scale. That has never happened before. What do you think?
Hi Chantel,
Yes, this does sound promising, but be careful about getting too confident and putting “all your eggs in one basket.” My best advice to you is, if you are unemployed, keep looking.
So, be sure to send her a nice thank you for the interview – it was very nice to meet her, the quality of the facility is quite impressive (true?), you appreciated the time she took and the tour that she gave you, and you look forward to hearing from her because you would be very proud to work for [name the hospital].
Then, prepare yourself to be patient. You might hear back from her within the time frame she indicated, but it may well take longer than 2 weeks for her to get back to you. “One of the best hospitals in the country” probably has a large number of applicants for most of their jobs, so I’m betting you have stiff competition for this job. There will likely be additional interviews before a formal offer is made.
Large hospitals typically have large bureaucracies, with formal hierarchies, processes, and procedures. Since you’ve been in the military, you understand how long sending something “up the chain-of-command” can take. And these are civilians, typically with more latitude in how long it takes to do something.
If you want a full-time job here, this should be an excellent foot-in-the-door start, and having this hospital on your resume in the future, given that it has such a stellar reputation, will help your career in the future. Hope this works out for you!
Good luck!
Susan
P.S. And Semper Fi if you were in the USMC!
Thanks Susan…I did send a thank you letter, stating I appreciated the tour and her time. The hospital is expanding, and she did see that I applied for numerous positions within the pharmacy. She also asked about the job I have now (I work on call for a couple of temp agencies as well as a veterans’ home in the area). I’m sure there are others that she’s interviewing. I figure if I don’t hear anything by next week (it will be two weeks by then), I’ll follow up with a courtesy email.
By the way, I was Navy. She was impressed when I told her that I was Sailor of the Year at my last command.
I also double checked the hospital’s website for the job I applied to. It’s still posted, and it says that there are three openings for this particular position. I won’t put all my eggs into one basket as suggested, but I am praying really hard that I get this one!!!
Hi Chantel.
Excellent – I can see why you were Sailor of the Year at your last command!
Reaching out with email next week is a good idea. If you don’t get a response from your email within a few days, contact her via phone.
You are approaching your job search like a military campaign, and that is exactly the right approach, Sailor of the Year. Keep at it. You will win!
Good luck!
Susan
hey there susan,
i initially got a phone call from a job i applied to and did the phone job screening first then they called back a day later to setup a in person interview. then the following week i got a in person interview from 3 manager, and then a personnel from HR. they were all 1 hour long. I think my interview went way better than i thought it would. I answered all the questions and during the interview we even joked around about random things and we all laughed and everything. just the overall interview process was very comfortable and everything went smooth. so at the end of the interview i asked when i would hear back from them and they replied 1 week later. a week later i didn’t hear back from them so i left a voice mail on the HR personnel’s voice mail. that afternoon i received an email from that person stating “that the office still has not made any decisions at this time and i am still under consideration and apologizes that the process is moving slowly. and they are still scheduling interviews for this position. and if i had other opportunity elsewhere she suggest that i do not wait for them. and at the end adds that their process is kinda long, i hope this response helps.”
the email kinda made me feel little better but at the same time…. it was kinda iffy…. I was so excited for this job and i thought everything went alright… and the email response could go either way. so what do you think the outcome will be?
Hi John,
It does feel kind of “iffy” given what the HR rep put into the email and the fact that they are still interviewing people.
So, I would take that advice, and keep looking. If nothing better comes along and this works out, great.
Good luck!
Susan
Hey there Susan,
I just had an interview the other day (totally forgot to send the thank you note, but I’ll be doing it tomorrow since it’s around midnight here now). I feel like the interview itself went really positive, she was very excited and talked to me a lot about my past experience. She seemed impressed I gave several samples for writing and we spoke a lot about the job requirements. I also handed her my reference sheet and she said “Perfect!” with a big smile, saying she would interview a few more people that week and I would definitely hear back from them, that I wouldn’t have to follow up. Sounds positive, very excited. 🙂
Hi Sarah – Hope this worked out and you have an offer by now!
Good luck!
Susan
Hello,i had a telephone interview a week ago,its went fairly well, .i mean,you can not really tell! Anyway,at the end of the questioning,the nurse manager told me to send the background checks forms which i printed out during the on-line application to her,she also said she would keep in touch about the job,and my 3 referees mailed me they got requests for a reference check on me. Does this mean anything,or these checks are usually conducted on all interviewed candidates.its 8days now after the interview and am so anxious.
Hi Bussybutter,
Yes, it definitely sounds promising. I would wait until the 15th day after the interview, and then contact the nurse manager to see what is going on.
Meanwhile, don’t give up on your job search until you get a written offer from this employer.
Good luck!
Susan
I wish I have the same kind of success story as Wilson and other readers on this site. After almost a month of waiting, feeling positive and hopeful after both first and second interviews, I didn’t get the job I really wanted. I received my rejection letter today, which I feared the most, and I took it pretty hard. However, I know that I have to move and keep looking. The company still want to keep in touch with me for contract work. Not exactly what I want, but maybe this will keep my foot in the door when a new opening arises in the future.
Hi Tia,
So sorry to hear that you didn’t get the job! You are absolutely right to keep looking!
Depending on what you mean about the company wanting “to keep in touch with you for some contract work” (better than nothing and often a great foot-in-the-door move!), my favorite thing to see people do after a rejection is to send a thank you note.
Yes, it sounds crazy, but in my years in HR at Harvard University and in a large high tech company, I saw it work! Sometimes the # 1 choice decides to take another job, and sometimes the # 1 doesn’t work out as well as expected – some people give great interviews but are not so great at the real job.
In your thank-you-for-not-hiring-me not, thank them for:
* The time they took (it takes a lot of staff time to interview applicants – very expensive for most employers!).
* The opportunity to meet (great?) staff, see the premises, and to learn more about them.
Ask them to keep you in mind for their next similar opening, and, if you are feeling bold, ask them if it’s OK to stay in touch.
Then, 3 things can happen:
1.) If the “winning” applicant doesn’t work out, you will be top of mind.
2.) The next time they have a similar opening, they might remember you – assuming it’s not 18 months from now.
3.) If they decide they need some more help – but not full-time, permanent staff – they might remember you, too.
Sounds like you may already have a line on # 3, but just in case, follow up with the thank you and see what happens.
Things will work out for you. But the waiting is annoying and painful. Keep the faith!
Good luck!
Susan
Tia, sometimes one job doesn’t work out in order to open an opportunity for a better job. hang in there! You should be proud of yourself. some don’t even get interviews. You made it to that stage. keep going!
Excellent comment, Catherine! Thank you!
Hey Ronnie Ann I got the Cabela’s job! Thank you for the tips.
Excellent! Thanks for letting us know! Hope everything turns out well.
Regards,
Susan
Wilson, now its time for champagne. Here’s to your new job!
Hey –
Ok…so here is the situation, I had applied for a different position, but they hired someone else, but called me a week later and said that they would like to interview me for a different (and better) position. I interviewed with HR and passed, then later I interviewed with the director of the company and must have passed and then they brought me back again to interview with the CFO and partner of the firm. I had asked how many phases there would be in the hiring process and he told me that the next time I would hear from them, it would be with an offer.
I got home much later that night and had an e-mail from the HR rep I had first interviewed with, and she said that the firm had decided to move forward with me in the process and that they needed to to do a background check. So my question is basically…is this a good sign? Am I in…I have nothing in my background that would keep me from the position and they specifically said they would NOT be doing a credit check.
Just looking for some thoughts…
Thanks!
Brian
Hey Brian,
This sounds very positive. I wouldn’t buy any champagne yet (too superstitious), but I might start checking out the prices. 🙂
At this point, I can think of only one thing to possibly be wary of –
Just in case the “background check” includes an Internet search on your name, why don’t you Google and Bing yourself to see what’s there on the first 10 or 15 pages of search results. If a law breaker or other tacky/inappropriate person with the same name pops up in those results, that could possibly raise some questions about you. IF such a person exists, it would be good to be prepared for the questions, possibly even to address the issue directly by contacting HR first if you find anything that you think might concern them. Track down more information about that other person – a photo which is clearly not you would be ideal.
Hope that all goes well!
Good luck!
Susan
I had a interview at a IT firm Tuesday they had a very posttive attitude. They had me do a technical interview with the head of IT. After answering the first question 50% right he said I am in the top 2 of the 20 candidates. I then answered the next 2 100% correct. The head of IT and myself got intonsome personal conversation and then said I remind him of a carbon copy of himself. I waited 2 days and called them back asking a status update. The head of the office then asked me to come in for a interview day. To work 4 hours to gauge my technical ability. I went in the following day and spent my 4 hours their. At the end of the four hours they pulled me into the office and had a very positive flow to the conversation they then said I should be expecting a call by Wednesday. Before I walked out the IT GUY SAID ill see you around. Do you think this is positive?
Yes, James, it does sound positive. But don’t take the outcome for granted. Send thank you emails before Wednesday.
If they want you to spend more time there for free, I’d be a bit suspicious. They can hire you as a contractor to test your capabilities out more thoroughly if they want to. But, more than 4 hours of free work is taking adavantage, in my opinion.
Good luck!
Susan
It was always my understanding that employers would not pay for the expense of a drug test if they weren’t serious about hiring you.
It was my first interview to and I felt very confident.
I had a drug test after 2 interviews at cabela’s there is a new store opening. I had a interview with the senior manager and another manager. Then they brought me to a back room and had me do a drug test, after the drug test I had another interview with the customer service manager. She said I will be being a greeter, camping, or cashier associate if I get the job. She asked for my references, then she walked with me to the elevator had a conversation for about 10 minutes. She asked for my references and told me they would call in two weeks. Do I have a good chance at getting the job? How long does the hiring process take?
Thanks
Hi Wilson –
It’s hard to tell if you have a good chance, but it sounds promising. Make sure the people you gave as references know that they may be called, and ask them to let you know when it happens (if it happens). That will give you an idea of how well things are progressing.
When a new store is being opened, there are usually many, many jobs to be filled and a lot of people to interview. It could take a couple of months, maybe longer. So, I wouldn’t stop looking for a new job because this could take a while.
There will probably be a second round of interviews in a week or two (or three), and maybe a third round after that – it depends on how well you do and how much competition you have. But, it sounds like you’re off to a very good start.
Good luck!
Susan
I had a drug test after 2 interviews at cabela’s there is a new store opening. I had a interview with the senior manager and another manager. Then they brought me to a back room and had me do a drug test, after the drug test I had another interview with the customer service manager. She said I will be being a greeter, camping, or cashier associate if I get the job. She asked for my references, then she walked with me to the elevator had a conversation for about 10 minutes. She asked for my references and told me they would call in two weeks. Do I have a good chance at getting the job?
Thanks
I can tell everyone that following or during a job interview, many things can happen. I’ve had situations where I’ve gotten interviews to jobs I really wanted or was qualified for, things went great, but never heard back from the company. There were jobs that I didn’t care for and/or had little experience in, but was hired on the spot. Then there were jobs that sounded great and was given the offer at the time of interview, but I couldn’t accept it due to schedule conflicts, low wage, etc.
I had an interview this past Friday and felt it went very well. I followed it with a thank you email immediately after the interview, reiterating my interest and enthusiasm for the job. It’s about all I can do right now while I wait.
So no matter how well the job interview went, it doesn’t always mean you scored the job. Harsh reality, I know it all too well. 🙁 Sometimes the person you interviewed with may like you a lot, but the one that does the actual hiring has other plans and ideas. Sometimes the company thinks you were awesome, but the person being interviewed after you suits the company’s taste better. It’s competitive out there… Just keep your heads up!
Hi Tia,
You’re right about the seeming arbitrariness of how well you do on an interview vs. whether or not you get the job. It’s one of the many things in job search you have no control over. So many things come into play in the hiring process — for you and for the employer.
I think one of the most detrimental things people do to themselves in the interview process is blame themselves, or their abilities, when they don’t get the job. They can agonize so much that they actually become ill. The hiring decision may have nothing at all to do with them or their good-fit for the job. I hear all the time about perfect-fit job seekers who don’t make the cut. The best you can do, is the best you can do.
I’m glad to hear you sent a thank you note. That action alone could clinch the deal for you.
Good luck landing this one!
Meg Guiseppi
Member of the WorkCoachCafe Team
This was a wonderful interview, Tran. You did great!
Fingers crossed. Thank you so much for letting us know. Good luck!
Update on my interview
I had two interview on thursday. One was at 10:30 am and one at 1:30 pm. The first one went okay, the second one was really good. The hiring manger asked about 8 questions. I answer all of her questions and also gave some examples too. A few times she even said wow that great and very good. At the end she asked if I have any questions, at first I couldn’t think of any because she touch base all everything. But, I was able to asked her what the typical day would be like at this location?. I just expect her to said busy, slow, or we need to go out to get accounts. But she went and did the whole 360 degree answer. She told me about what the benefits are for the position, how much incentive if the goal was meet, how much vacation, tuition reimbursement, and so on. She than said that the Hr will call and give me more details about the benefits. At the end of I shook her hand thanked her for her time. So let see how this one go.
I applied for this place for a while, I received a phone called from last thursday that they would like to set up an interview for next thursday. I got really happy because this is the place that I always want to work for. I went home to check on the job posting for that position, however, I notice that position was inactive and was taken down. I got really disappoint, I wonder is this one of their fake interview or what I really don’t know what to think. The interview is this Thursday but I am debating if I should go or not. I had been through 5 interview but so far no offer. My boyfriend said just go maybe they are still deciding on the right one. Anyone have any good advice?
Go. Do your very best. Don’t worry about what you can’t know. There are many reasons it may have been taken down – the simplest one being too many good resumes & candidates already.
But even when a job is no longer available, you have the chance to impress and connect so that you are remembered for other jobs. More than once, when someone impressed me, I’ve called them back for other jobs that they wound up getting. Always accept opportunity when presented and always give it your all! I can’t explain why, but this has worked wonders in my own life.
Good luck, tran.
Over the last two months I’ve been interviewing for a position. Somethings been haunting me about my last phone interview with the SVP. Toward the end of the call she kept asking me if I had any more questions for her. I had asked a few, and relented that I had no more.
In closing with her I asked once for the job, and was given her obejction. I tried to overcome the objection, and ask if anything else was keeping her from offering me the positon. She asked again if I had anymore questions. What’s that all about?
Hmmm…interesting. I have no idea why she did that. Perhaps simply her way of closing the conversation while making sure you got to have your say.
Curious what you meant by “In closing with her I asked once for the job, and was given her obejction. I tried to overcome the objection”
BTW…asking for the job isn’t a good thing to do at the end of such a call. Your job is to make your best case and then, perhaps, ask when you might expect to hear anything and how soon it’s ok to follow up. And for the future, research the company and really think through the job description and what it might be like on a daily basis so you come up with some solid questions to ask. Good to jot those down ahead of time in case you forget. 🙂
Best of luck!
Billy. Just a note. Be careful what deadlines you place on employers. I did that once, and got the job paying more money, but I was MISERABLE. The other job called the following Monday and told me that they finally had clearance to offer me the job, but I had already taken the other one. It was the WORST job experience of my 15 years
Thanks for answering, Tran. Sometimes our gut is right. But I’ve had people write to say it didn’t go well and then they got the job. Best advice I have is be open to a surprise, but meanwhile keep looking. 🙂
Good luck!
I am guessing that I didn’t get the job. I have mix feelings about this interview. Because, when I went on any interview I would have the guts feeling if it went well or not. For this one it was hard one.
I had an interview with the recruiter on the phone it went well. He really like my answer, he than set up an interview with the hiring manager. He also gave me some tips and advice( he sound very nice and friendly). I went to the interview on thursday, she asked questions that the company gave. She than asked her banker if he got any questions for me. He asked me some questions and I answer him. They than asked me what I would like to be, I gave them my answer. They than went on for 5 min about the responsibilities of the position and what to expect. Through the whole interview . At the end of the interview I thanks them for the time shook their hand. They gave me their business card, and the manager said that the HR person will call me. At the time I knew that I didn’t make it.
Thanks for sharing this with us, Tran. How did you know? What were the cues? Curious if they already told you that you didn’t get the job or you are just guessing.
Funny thing about interviews is that no matter how many positive cues you get or don’t get, the answer can sometimes be a surprise. Even if the answer is no on this one, I hope you find a job that is right for you soon!
All the signs are good, Karthik. And yes…the answer now is patience. I hope you hear something soon.
Good luck!!
Hi Ronnie,
I seem to be in a little better situation as I have got the job. I had an interview and a test.
Later I got a call from them and they appreciated my work informed me about the joining date and we discussed about the salary and other allowances, they told they will be mailing me the offer letter the following day. But haven’t received the mail and I sent a mail requesting to know when I’ll be receiving the letter. They haven’t replied yet. And even the call to the concerned person went unattended. I am trying to be patient. Its been three days after their last call.
Hi Michael!
Lionessyourhighness is absolutely right. (Thanks, Lioness.) The hard thing about waiting to hear back after an interview is that one hour feels like a day and a day sometimes feels like forever. Here are some articles that may help: After the Job Interview
Although it feels awful, it’s totally normal. I wish you much luck. Hope your gut is right. meanwhile, keep busy and keep looking! (See the articles to read why.)
Mr. Oz. Unfortunately, the lack of communication 5 days later is short, compared to some time periods that hopefuls wait. There is always the proverbial followup phone call and/or letter, and it has always worked to be the “squeaky wheel.” I too have used Ronnie’s advice in the past, and now, fortunately, I am gainfully employed. I wish you the best of luck. Before you know it, you will have your answer.
Love it when you stop by. Wishing you all the best and hope you have a wonderful holiday season!
I really like your blog, sincerely one of the most informative blogs I have read regarding the recruitment process.
I’m about to pull out hairs waiting to find out if I got the job or not. The whole process required 2 interviews and 1 test. I find myself in the situation where I really don’t know it could swing either way. My gut instinct says yes, but I’m wondering why the lack of communication 5 days later.
Hi Fabian. Thanks for the kind words. I have no way to know what really happened, since an interview is so much more than the words exchanged. But I can offer a few thoughts about what you told me:
(1) You wrote “my interviewer (one of the area heads) asked me whether there was any task I was unwilling to do, and I answered that I knew what I was applying for and the duties it includes but I’d rather not do Salaries, which is the very task this guy is in charge of! ” My suggestion is to be open to anything, even an area that wouldn’t be your first preference. Some might think an answer like that shows the potential for a prima dona. When building a career, it;s good to try everything – at least once. But of course if the only task is one you don’t want, you shouldn’t be in the interview in the first place.
But on a different level, what you said may have seemed honest to you, but it could have been received as: “I sure wouldn’t want to do the kind of work YOU do!” Not a good way to win friends in an interview.
(2) When they say tell us about yourself or your personality, relate it to work and, if possible, to that job in particular. They may have thought you weren’t taking them or the job seriously. Here’s an article that covers the basic concept: How To Handle Tell Me A Little About Yourself
I hope that it went better than you think. You never know for sure. If not, I hope the next one is the right match. Good luck!
Reminder to my readers: This site gets a lot of visitors and while I would like to be able to answer each and every question, that would mean I would do almost nothing else all day! 🙂 So I do my best, even if it takes a while.
But please help me by keeping your questions short. Thanks!
Hi Ronnie,
I’ve come across your site by chance and let me tell you beforehand that I think it’s awesome.
Today I had an interview for an internship in a large american company (I’m from Argentina). I’m 20, currently working part time in taxes for a small accounting firm and at the same time in college studying Economics. My resume is very good from what most people have told me and I’m strongly qualified for such internship. The problem here is that I have this strong insecure feeling about how the interview went, since my interviewer (one of the area heads) asked me whether there was any task I was unwilling to do, and I answered that I knew what I was applying for and the duties it includes but I’d rather not do Salaries, which is the very task this guy is in charge of! I tried to be as subtle as I could at the moment, but his face completely changed after that. Plus, at one time the conversation diverted from the interview and I may have commited a faux pas bringing politics into it (the logistics head was also there and I got curious about the imported imputs and the economic policy associated with it and I’m kind of a free market supporter), and the icing of the cake was when he simply asked, after having me talk for ten minutes about myself, to again tell him about my personality. At that point, I made a quick choice between keeping an all-important, high profile (Talking once more about my GPA, my current job, my english studies, swimming, playing the piano) or tone it down a bit, so I chose the latter and simply said (“I’m cool, I’m normal, I have friends, go out during the weekends and have fun in my free time”).
At the end I could feel a strange coldness from these people, telling me that if I was picked they would tell me within a week from now and thanking me for going all the way for that interview (The office is 20 miles from Buenos Aires, my hometown) with a distant tone, it was awkward and goes against the enthusiasm they showed at other parts of the meeting. What’s bugging me is that I see no overall faults in my performance there, apart from what’s said before, and I really want this to work out.
Can you give me an honest and professional opinion on what happened there? I’m really upset with what I perceive to be the results of this.
Hi roni;
I went to an interview but I’m not sure what to think about it here is the scenario maybe you can help to feel better about it. I came in 15 min early ( he called me an early bird) he started the interview at that time the first question was what do I do know !! Which I answer but I started explaining how I got into that position an what my duties are without them asking me.. I also share some information from the company ( I made a good research) I also talk about my personal skilLs and how perfect match they do with the position, I kept eye contact at all the times we laugh about something we have in commun. He explained to me what the position was and that if there was anything that I did not they will send me to school. He did not explained as if who ever gets hire it was more like you will go to classes you will have your desk we will help you. we talk a little about my personal life, but Im just scare because after thinking he did not ask me a lot of questions maybe three at most and the interview lasted 25 – 30 min don’t take me wrong we covered everything from my side and his the position will be he told me there were few other interviews I was the first one but he will have dm answer by next week
and that the person contacting me will be hr not him(the manager), he also explained the steps after hr contacts me. Overall I had a good feeling but I’m not sure what to think about the fact that I was not questioned a lot. Like I said I have a good feeling we shakes hand never lose the eye contact and I sent a thank you email. What do you think???
Rominia, the biggest mistake interviewees make is NOT asking your OWN questions. When an employer asks a series of questions, they look at a NUMBER of things. They look at your body language, how you respond to their questions and the knowledge you have when you ask them questions. Don’t be afraid to INTERVIEW them! You are also trying to see if you fit in. Make sure that you stand up straight, that your grammer is correct and that you ask the right questions. Ronnie’s website can give you a hint on these. good luck!
I can’t tell you what to do, Billy. You know every aspect of the situation better than anyone. You know what would be helpful to you and you know the risks. It’s up to you. Just make sure if you do contact them that you absolutely must know at that moment, and are not imposing any artificial deadlines of preference rather than need. Not saying you are…just wanted to add that to your thinking.
As for my comment on closure…it’s just an observation based on many years of living and getting feedback from job seekers on Work Coach Cafe. This may not apply in your case; but for some, closure comes with expectations on the part of the person needing closure that may not be totally met.
Good luck whatever you decide! Please let us know what happens.
Hi Billy the kid!
First..congratulations on getting such good feedback. At this point, I would wait at least until next week. You’ve already contacted them and believe me…they remember you. But they also let you know there’s a strong candidate pool. So if your only reason for calling is to get closure for you, while I understand it, you stand to risk more than you gain. This is the time to show patience. You are not going to win them over by calling again.
Wait until next week, if you can. If you really can’t stand it any more…maybe a short e-mail or snail mail note saying something like you realize these things take time, but very much want the job and hope they keep you at the top of the list. This way you are not being too pushy and may leave a favorable extra impression.
Meanwhile…keep looking at full force. You never know what pops up while waiting.
Good luck!
Hey thank you for responding so quick. God Bless You! Well the truth is, I have a job that I feel that I can get because I am being networked into it. The problem is if I hold on to long it may not be there. I have been communicating with this other company and they are aware that I am in between waiting for a decision from something.. I know foolish of me but I felt comfortable knowing that the people I spoke with know that I am friends with the person that is trying to get me the job.. so I was being genuine. I told the woman that I would be calling her by the end of this week to set something up if it doesn’t work out.
Anyhow, when I called the director the first time, I alluded that I needed to make a decision soon based upon something else… but it was followed with my desire for the job I interviewed for being an amazing fit me for me personally and professionally. He stated well during this time its best to be patient and a decision will be made soon. I mean I know I can wait another week for this other job ( the networked one) and it may or may not be there. So what should I do?
And the email you suggested? When should I send it? and What should it say?
Hi again Billy,
One thing about answering questions online is that there are so many layers sometimes that a simple answer doesn’t cover all bases. And there is no way I can know what you should do. That’s up to you. 🙂
But since the director said “its best to be patient and a decision will be made soon” I think you should let that be your guidance. If you bug them too much, that can be a huge red flag. And if you absolutely have to give the other place an answer, then try again politely at that point. But I hope you hear in time.
BTW…since the other place seems to be opening itself up to you and you already have a built-in network of sorts, what about the first one is so great that you might want to risk the second? Closure isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. You got a compliment on preparedness, but also an advisory that there are strong candidates. That’s not to say you won’t get the offer, but sometimes interviewers say that to let the person know they aren’t the top candidate. Again, no way I can tell, so that’s just an fyi.
Hope you get the chance to decide between the two on your terms. But meanwhile, make sure to keep the doors open to the one that you think you can get for sure. Good luck!
Well the networked job is something that is closely related to my field but not exactly.. I have my masters to work in a school and the networked job is working with a mental health agency NOT in a school. So while it still puts me on a track of working in the ” counseling field” it’s not exactly in line with the educational side of counseling. More in line with what someone with a psych degree may work in as opposed to a guidance counselor per say.
So as stated earlier, last Wednesday I called and he mentioned end of the week or early next week. Would it be crazy of me to call on Thursday? The reason is that it will allow me to schedule an interview for Friday or Monday with the networked job. Truthfully, should I just not call or anything? I mean if they really wanted me they would of called me by now… I know this thought derives from a sense of doubt due to elapsed time wearing on my patience but at the same time…..I do feel that I need to move on from this… I do not want to put my foot in the door at the networked job because I don’t want to place my friendship in jeopardy by making a commitment and then backing out. You know what I mean?
Closure isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.. What did you mean by this comment?
Ahhh Ronnie Ann! Just feeling frustrated with this process that’s all. I mean I TRUST that something will happen at some point with landing a job. Will it be the one I want the most? I have faith and regardless of what happens, I know I am OK!
Should I call or send an email on Friday? 🙂 I am going to reach out with either one. Which one do you think?
LoL. I know I know.. I can’t stay away from thinking about finding out about what is going to happen..
Signed,
Billy The Kid
Hello,
I have a question. I had an interview last Thursday and they mentioned that would have an answer for me by the beginning of the following week. On Wednesday of the following week I called the Director who I interviewed with and he mentioned that they had one last interview today and they would have an answer by the end of the week or early next week. Now it’s Monday early next week. Should I follow up with them at the end of this week?
The interview went really well as the Director praised my level of preparedness as being the best of any candidate EVER to interview for this position. Though he did mention that there was a strong candidate pool. I would like closure with this. Should I follow up at the end of the week or Wednesday? Do you think I will be a pest, considering we already spoke over the phone during my initial follow up? I would an insight.
Thank You
To Just Curious, Grace and others. just wondering. how you are doing. are you hanging in there?
I love that you are so caring, Catherine. 🙂 My best wishes to you and everyone else reading this!
Hi
I had a interview this week and it was with a panel of two and the two people interviewing me where not even the 3 listed in the invitation letter.
I had the interview, I felt it went well and the interviewer was smiling and nodding at my answers even though I could not answer one of them!
As i was leaving they said they would let me know the following morning. I find it strange that they have not called to say whether i got the post or not. It is a simple answer to a prospectus candidate.
They were pretty firm in saying I would hear in the morning (either way) but nothing! What should i do? Just wait.
Hi Clare!
Hope by now you’ve heard something, but this is not strange at all. Stuff happens behind the scenes even with the best of intentions.
If it were me, I’d wait until next week to give them catch-up time, and then send a polite note. They may have offered it to someone else and are waiting to hear. Or they may simply have had people necessary to the process who weren’t available. Either way, because they were so definite, it’s ok to call next week and check in.
Best of luck! Hope to hear good news soon. 😉
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Interview limbo is where exactly I am. I was interviewed for a position that I really wanted and the last interview was with the company’s CEO, who would also have a say on the hiring process. The interview with the CEO already took place two weeks ago and the day after, the HR called me to ask for my transcript of records as the last step in the recruitment process.
Just to give you a background, the hiring manager met up with me an hour before my interview with the CEO. They briefed me on the possible questions that he might ask. So to speak, she coached me. And she also mentioned that she felt I was the right candidate for the job.
To date, I haven’t heard from them. It’s really nerve-wrecking. I just wish they told me if I got it or not.
Btw, your article is really helpful.
Hi April!
Glad you found the article helpful. Sounds like they really like you – but of course that’s not the same as an actual offer. By this point, it would be ok to write the hiring manager a short note saying you’re still very interested and would like to know if there is any update on your status.
Good luck, April! Please let us know what happens.
Big smile. Thanks for letting me know. I wish you all the best, Sonia!!
Hi Sonia!
Don;t give up. It’s normal for these things to take more time than anyone ever thinks it will. If you didn’t send your thank you note yet, you can still send one letting them know you are still very interested and hope to be able to meet with them again soon. Or something like that. If there’s some particular thing that stands out for you from the interview, include that.
If you already sent a thank you not, then wait until next week and, if you still haven’t heard anything, send a polite note expressing pretty much the same. 😉
Good luck, Sonia!
Thank you very much, I woke up this morning feeling confident I knew what to say in my email. Regardless to whether I got the job, hopefully they will be in touch to let me know as this waiting around is awful.
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I had an interview a week ago and I felt it went really well, as I was leaving he told me he would speak to his boss and be in touch. As I have not heard anything I was wondering whether to follow up with an email but I’m not exactly sure what to write, this was my first interview for a job in my chosen profession and I want it more than anything.
Any advice would be a great help.
Sonia
GREAT advice, Catherine. Even the smallest thing that can raise questions for a potential employer can come back to bite you. Unfortunately, everything about you on the internet is now in effect on your resume.
Hope you’re doing well. Thanks!
Ronnie, I wanted to add to all those out there looking for jobs; the news story on Facebook and other postings by potential employees had me spooked. It is time for all job hunters out there to clean up your profiles. EMPLOYERS ARE LOOKING AT EVERYTHING from your choice of friends to your postings to your pics. Rule of Thumb: If you don’t want a potential employer to look at what you post and what you write, then LEAVE IT OUT. This and drug testing are the wave of the future.
This is GREAT news, MK. Congratulations!
One of the reasons I don’t list every single possible question and answer is that the secret is in how you answer as much as in what you answer. And with that knowledge, and, as your experience shows, once you get the general idea of where certain types of answers should go, all you need to show up with is you. 😉
Best of luck in your new job, MK! Thanks so much for letting us all know.
This website has helped me big time!
The day before my interview I was looking at many of your posts at possible questions I could be asked but little did I know that none of the questions I looked at came up in the interview! Eeek
But this wasn’t the point. Knowing that I could answer most questions that could have been thrown at me gave me the confidence for the interview so I found it so easy to answer the questions I wouldn’t normally have a clue how to answer!
I took your advice on body language, to keep calm and to be myself and IT WORKED! I got a phone call today offering me the job!
Thank you so much for this site! (-:
Thank you, Catherine! I’m touched by your kind words. Hope all is well with you.
BTW…I will bet you dollars to donuts (mmm…donuts) I get more from all of you than I give. 😉
I think that makes this website so great is that we have advice from Ronnie Ann, who has interviewed MANY a candidate in her lifetime, and has graciously offered to mentor all of us. We owe her out thanks.
Thank you so much for this article!
I had my first interview in five years a few days ago and I’ve been in agony about how it went… This article really put things back into perspective and I fell so much more at ease. I’m confident I did my best and that’s what matters.
I was also told they’ll get back to me in a week, and if I don’t hear from them to call him (the interviewer) and he gave me his card. But like you mentioned, interviews are like dating… So, I’ll shall see what happens. 🙂
P.S. The majority of the aforementioned questions asked in the article was yes! Jehovah God willing, I will get the job.
You have my best wishes for success, Paris. As my first like says, no way anyone can really know for sure until you get the offer, no matter how many or few yeses to my questions you have. This is just a general guide and some tips for next time. In your case, I hope the next time is many years from now after you have done well in THIS job. 😉
Hi Very Curious!
Of course, I have no way of knowing what’s really going on, but please know this is VERY common. With best intentions, dates melt away.
Good luck!
Hi There:
I had 2 interviews with a local company here. I was told that they would have an answer by the end of the week.
Well, there was no answer.
I called and left a message, stating that I was still interested in the position and would like to know if a decision has been made.
4 days after that voicemail, I received a message, stating that they are still interviewing and would contact me within the next couple of weeks while wrapping up the ‘stragglers’ from the interviewing process.
The interviews (as in 2 with a possibility of another one – b/c I made myself available for them to have me visit for a “refresher” interview) went well, and it seems as though they are interested in me joining the company. My question is: did I get the job or are they actually interviewing?
PS – when I called, they were friendly and very upbeat in their speaking voice, as to say, “I’m so glad you called.”
I noticed your website searching on google and hoped to contact the author of this post. I had some further questions regarding this.
What are your question?
Thanks for asking the question I would have asked, Grace! 😉
Baidu…this site is where people ask questions. If I am able to, I try to answer. But I don’t answer privately or I would be doing that all day long!
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thank you for your suggestion. I will wait until next month as you suggested.
Grace
Hi Grace!
I know how hard this must be for you. Unfortunately the interview process takes as long as it needs to take, even if they are aiming for a certain date of completion. In this case, they already told you that just the interviews will last until the end of the month.
While I can’t tell you what to do, if it were me I would wait until next month before calling. Believe me, during an interview process, favorite candidates are remembered. 😉
But if you really want, I guess it would be ok to send a short, polite snail mail card saying something like (not exactly my words of course) “Hope you are doing well with the interview process for ____. (Mention which job.) I just want you to know I am still very interested in the job and your company.” And remember to check carefully for typos! 😉
Meanwhile, keep applying for other jobs. You never know what pops up while you’re waiting.
Good luck!
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I haven’t heard anything from the hiring manager. It has been a month since my last fellow up. Would you tell me how should I fellow up now, e-mail or phone? Phone is more personal, I think. E-mail can be more organized for me.
By the way, I did not feel we were connected for the onsite interview after I read your blog (I had a very good phone interview with him). I did well with other interviewers and get very nice feedback from some of them, including his boss. Can I do anything at this point? This is a very challenging job and also my dreamed job. I don’t want to miss this opportunity if possible.
Thank you in advance for your advice,
Grace
Hi Grace!
Blog posts are written as general guidelines. But you can also have an interview feel disconnected and still get an offer. As my first line says, you only know for sure that it went well when you get the job. 😉
How about a compromise? Gather your thoughts ahead of time, make notes to have in front of you, and then call, trying not to look at the notes so you can be as natural as possible, but knowing they are there just in case.
Good luck!
I had an interview one month ago. I am still waiting for the employer’s decision. The hiring manager responded to my follow up email saying that they have more interviews and will get me back after that. Now, three weeks has passed. I was told by HR that they will complete interview by the end of month. What should I do now? Should I call or wait? Thanks.
Hi Jackie!
I guess a short polite e-mail is fine under the circumstances. But because you already called (and don’t want to seem like a stalker), make sure to say you understand these things take time and just want to let her how much you enjoyed meeting Ms. ____ and how interested you are in the job. Calling again is probably too intense.
Oh…and it’s way too soon to be bugging them about the decision. They’ll let you know, thank you note or not. 😉 Government processes can take time. Often LOTS of time. (Although in this case, I hope not.)
If the manager gave that card out to every interviewee, no one managed to get a letter to her. So if you want, simply e-mail the hiring manager politely and let it go. And then…wait. 😉
Next contact shouldn’t be for at least 2 weeks. I know that feels like forever, but if it’s the right job it will be worth it.
Good luck, Jackie!
At the conclusion of the interview, I asked the manager for a business card. I sent the thank you letter the next day. Unfortunately, the address on the business card was wrong so I got the letter back. Yesterday, I called the hiring manager yesterday and left a message letting her know about the thank you letter and to reiterate that I was very interested in the position and wondered if a decision had been made. No phone call back, but that’s probably standard for the government. My husband thinks I should call her again today – I think that’s a bad idea. I want to follow up with an email, but don’t want to send it too soon.
Thanks Catherine for helping! Love your question.
And while there’s no way to know for sure, Jackie, I like what Catherine said. Fingers crossed for you! Please let us know what happens.
Good luck!!
how many of you that have written here to discuss the waiting game, have received your report for work phone call? Please keep us posted on your progress.
Hey Jackie! The last time a federal employee told me that what I had told them was what they were looking for, I was hired. Congratulations ahead of time!
Thanks, Catherine. I really hope you’re right.
Hi,
I’m a Federal Government employee. I interviewed with another Government agency last week. It lasted about 30-35 minutes and I felt a real connection with the hiring manager. Every answer I gave, she would give feedback such as “that was a perfect answer” or “that’s what I’m looking for”. Overall, that was probably the best interview I have been on in years. Now, I’m stuck in the waiting game and wondering if that’s what some managers say about given answers when they really don’t mean it. Has anyone ever had that experience where you felt you totally aced the interview, given the feedback you received and didn’t get the job?
Good question, Catherine! Thanks so much for your comment. Personal experiences are great reminders of what can happen. Really sorry it worked out that way for you, of course. I know at the time you made the best choice you could with all the other things you had to consider.
Hi waiting game victim! Only you know what you must decide to do based on all your circumstances. I just want to mention that employers don’t like to be pushed with these decisions, and if mentioning that you have other offers isn’t handled carefully (not saying you did that), they can respond coolly even if you are a preferred candidate. Also, since they’re still interviewing, they have no idea if you will be a finalist, so it would be wrong for them to tell you to wait on their account.
I had that happen once, and wound up accepting the job I wanted least – and then getting the other offer. I stayed with job I accepted and wound up learning a lot, making a lifelong friend, and coincidentally connecting to someone who eventually got me to a job I really wanted.
There’s just no real way to know for sure. All you can do is assess the pros and cons, trust your gut and don’t look back.
I wish you much luck making the right decision for you!
Be careful about the waiting game comments. I too had this problem. But it was with a government firm against a private firm. They told me if I had to take another position rather than be able to wait, then do so. Unfortunately, I did just that and HATED the job that I took. I will always look back and wish I had waited, which is hard when you are out of work. question comes down to which one do you want the MOST???
* my interviewer and HER supervisor (not mine)
I had an interview with a big corporation via phone in the begining of July. After sending my intial thank-you e-mail my interviewer responded by asking me to come in for an in-person interview. Great, i thought. Both my interviewer and my supervisor had a great meeting, on July 15 I felt comfortable and we even had some great small chat.
I was told that I would be told either way and that they would probably have they’re decision by the end of next week. After not hearing that friday, July 22I waited a few extra days to send a follow up e-mail. On July 28 I wrote an email circling back, expressing my interest in the company.
With no response I called August 1 to inquire if the position was still open and again, express my interest. I was told that they were still interviewing and had not come to a decision. When I asked if they had a sort of time reference, as I have other offers for fall but this place remains my top prority, they said not for a few weeks yet, and that if i needed to let other places know that I should just accept those offers.
From this I got that they weren’t too enthusiastic about having me if they were willing to have me accept another offer, however they are to let me know either way of their decision so wouldn’t they have told me no if i wasn’t being considered? I am in a pickle because I need to notify my other offers but would much rather have this position. thank you for any advice, i would really appreciate it.
Hi Navya!
Thanks for the kind words. It’s only been a few days since the interview. That’s not long at all. Did you send a thank you note? If not, that’s perfect for following up.
Here’s more to help answer your question:
Can Weekly Follow Up Calls and Emails Help Get You the Job?
Good luck!
Hi Ronnie Ann!
I just came across this website..and you have done a pretty good job with lots of tips and advices. Keep it up!
I recently went for an interview last Thursday ( 21st July ). It just last around 30 minutes and I thought the interview went well, but they haven’t called me yet. How long should I wait for them to call me? Or, should I call them back? Will it give a desperate impression if I call them back?
Please advise.
Thank you,
Navya
Glad it connected. Thanks for writing!
Good luck, Ryan.
Wow the first paragraph summed up what I felt.. thanks for the article.
Hi Gretchen!
Great to know that you find this site helpful. Hope this helps:
What Is a Career Story (and How Can It Help You Find Your New Job)?
Good luck!
Hi Ronnie Ann!
I really appreciate you taking time writing all these articles to help us in our job search. I would like to know if you could make an article on “how to tell a story.” I have an interview in 2 days for a sales consultant position. Otherwise, could you give me some advice/example/suggestions on how to effectively tell a story during an interview without boring the interviewer? Thank you so much!
Gretchen
Hi everyone! Sorry I haven’t been around lately. I have a lot of things going on at home and unfortunately it will be a while before I get back to answering comments the way I did before.
In the meantime, I want to thank Catherine for sharing her job search wisdom and congratulate her for finally getting the job she wanted. Even though you took a few interim jobs to get you through, your determination got you to the real happy ending you were looking for all along.
Aseko…Catherine gave you good advice. For anyone who doesn’t already know this, traditionally women are much more likely to exclude themselves from applying for a job because they think they don’t have the experience. It’s all how you tell the story (a lot of prior experience is transferable even if not exactly the same) and in how you present yourself…if you think you can do it and build a good case for themselves, you may have other qualities that help you land the job. I’ve almost never known what i was doing when I started! 😉
So what happened??
~ Ronnie Ann
Deep breaths, Aseko. You will know if you have prepared enough. The rest is up to you. Just remember that YOU are the best candidate for the job! The rest is fate and will follow!
Thanks Catherine! I will go to the interview I think. Still have all day today to prepare. As you say, what’s the worst that can happen? But again, I know I will be so stressed!
Aseko. It seems as though you already answered your question. You like the company, you love the job, and…apparently you want to stay with the company. Naysayers are not going to do you any good. The question is..do you WANT the job you are going to interview for? If so, then GO FOR IT! I applied for a position with the County that I didn’t feel I was completely qualified for, but I wanted it. I found out there were only 4 others who interviewed. I interviewed, and am on the TOP 2for the POSITION!!!! I am just waiting for my background check to clear. So FORGET about those who say you probably won’t get it. What is the WORST that can happen? You go to the interview, and then not get the job. If that’s all you have to fear, then get over the fear and INTERVIEW!
Hello Ronnie-Ann,
I am back to this website after a few months time, when thanks to your support I got an excellent job. Unfortunately it is only a fixed-term contract that is coming to an end and it can’t be renewed. But at least I am in this terrific company and now I can move around, applying for internal jobs.
That’s what I’ve done and I’ve been selected for an interview that will take place this Wednesday. But I don’t know if I should even go for it, as I’m sure they’re looking for a much more experienced person and I’ve been told by a number of people I probably won’t get it…
At the same time, people are saying I should go and impress the interviewers as there will probably be opportunities in the future. But… I wonder if I should… It is always so stressful and what if don’t do well enough to impress anyone, but only make the situation worse?
I don’t know what to do and I’m already very stressed, 2 days before the interview.
Thanks for any advice.
Best,
Aseko
Carsley, I’m so proud of you! You followed your heart and got what you wanted! I only wish sucess for you. Congratulations! Go celebrate, girl!
This is WONDERFUL news, Carsley. Thanks for letting us know. So happy for you. And what a great birthday present! 😉
I know this was tough but you did well trusting your instincts. Only you can know for sure. Very proud of you. That took courage. And yes…please do stop by now and then if you get a chance.
All my best!!
~ Ronnie Ann
And it gonna be my bdae present.
TOO.
Hi people
Thanks Especially Ann and catherine.
I gave up the job offer and go for the job interview on thursday.
Because i really wanted to try to get the job.
Just wanted to share to you all, i went to that interview and the voice test.
The next day after the interview, they call up and i be offered that post. I m so happy. I really thought it going to take 2 weeks plus again. Thanks for your all giving concern out there. I really appreciate.
Guess have to thanks this site for accompany me during part of my job hunting. It really been very stressful, deep down mood.
I will drop by once in a while here. ^^ Luv
Regards
Carsley
Hi Carsley!
Nice to be facing a dilemma of potentially being wanted by TWO places, isn’t it? 😉
I agree with Catherine about trusting your instincts. In the end, no one can tell you what to do. So rather than give you hard-and-fast advice, here’s my own story and a few thoughts.
I had almost the same dilemma years ago. Government job I had been waiting for and REALLY wanted (even though I didn’t have the exact requirements they asked for) came through after I accepted another job – one where I was the second choice and that paid less! Now this may shock you, but in my case, I decided to stick to my commitment. It turned out that I learned a ton and met one of the most important people in my life there. And I never regret the choice – although each offered a viable path.
From what Catherine has told us on the blog, the government job she didn’t wait for could have been a lot better than the awful job she took. But then again…there is just no way to know for sure about the path not taken. And I will add that the choice she wound up making recently as a result of her “wrong” choice could wind up being the best path after all. 😉
As I said…no way to know where any given path will lead. But just think about who you are as a person and do what is true to you and your nature. And remember…if there is any chance you might actually want to keep the job you accepted (is it one you might like given a chance or is it one you are sure you won’t want to stay in?), the initial impression you make and the attitude you show can set the tone for how you are received from that point on. And is it worth risking a job you have for a job you may not even get?
Then again…if the government job is truly the job of your dreams, it is certainly worth weighing the risk in your mind and deciding what your heart tells you. 😉
One side thought: There’s a great story about a dog who had a bone in his mouth and then saw what he thought was another dog with a bone in HIS mouth when he looked in a lake. When he opened his mouth to get the second bone, he wound up with none.
Not suggesting that’s your answer. Just want to give you enough thoughts and perspective to help you decide for yourself. And whatever you do decide, don’t look back. Life with regrets is life today lost. You can only make your best guess at any given time and then get on with life. We never know if a missed opportunity of any kind would actually lead us to greater opportunities down the road, so after giving it our best guess, what matters in the end is what we make of the opportunities we have.
And thanks Catherine for your words of wisdom. It helps to have more than one way of looking at things. There is no greater wisdom here than your words “Deep down inside you already know what to do.”
Best of luck, Carsley! PLEASE let us know what you decide and how it turns out. I know you’ll make the right choice for you. No one else has the answer!
~ Ronnie Ann
There ARE jobs out there. I found out things about Walmart that I never knew, including their many career paths. Go and apply. You will feel better working than not working.
Carsley-tell your new job that you have prior commitments and that you can’t start until Friday. Then go to your federal job interview. I had the same thing happen to me, and took a job before the federal government offered me a position.
Also =on this one you have to search your heart. Deep down inside you already know what to do. trust your instincts.
Thanks Catherine
Sound greats. But to the ” prior commitment. What should i say on this Prior commitment? Do u have any example of that?
I dont wish like having to take Medical leave on the 3rd dae of my work.
Thanks. Hope fast reply cos quite urgent.
Anyone could help?
Thanks and regards
Carsley
Hi all people ^^
I have an update on my job hunting, on my many many months of job hunting. I finally managed to find one job, but wait.. i have a problem again. I have been informed to start work on next tuesdae. But the thing is an interview which i hope for ( government MPA ) called for an interview on thursday, which i wanted to go. SO troubled, how? Once no job, there none. Once yes, OMG. Anybody can help, advise??
Thanks for all people concern last time as i really in deep down mode.
Regards
Carsley
Nice wish Annie. Hope so too. 😉 Thanks for popping in. Always wonderful to see you. And of course…I wish you only good things in your new job and everywhere else!
~ Ronnie Ann
Congratulations Charity!! Its an awesome news.. I wish you all the luck and satisfaction in your new job!! 🙂
Pardon me for not replying for a long time…But thank you all of you for your warm wishes!! 🙂
Ronnie…things are looking brighter.. I hope good news keep on pouring to this blog!!….
Congrats, Charity!
GREAT news Charity! Wuhooooo!!! Of course, we had no doubt. 😉 Your words hit the nail on the head…sometimes the hardest part is just keeping our spirits up.
Good luck in your new job!! And thanks so much for letting us know. Uh oh…here comes another one…wuhooOooooOOOO! 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Ronnie Ann & D Weathersby: I got a job! Thank you for keeping my spirits up, and giving me the push to keep on going.
Catherine…I hope with all my heart you hear good news soon. It sounds like you impressed them in the interview…which is all you can do. 😉
Best of luck. And please continue to keep us posted.
~ Ronnie Ann
Congratulations Annie !!!
I had my interview. Mom and Pop operation (right now-but..its growing!) Not a problem. They don’t provide health insurance benefits, but they have at least three positions open and 7 candidates. I did most of the talking, and told them that although I could do the work, that I am an independent thinker and wanted a job where I could shine. I then asked them how I stood as far as the other applicants. They told me they were thinking about me. They expect to make a decision on Tuesday, at the latest. They talked about a “skip tracing” job and that might just be up my alley-(for now-I am still looking at federal work!) But, its only 17 miles from home, and that means a lot to me (M-F 8-5). Maybe if I get the job I could “swing” some of the work from my home as far as skip tracing. Anyway, it went as well as can be expected, and we will see!
Annie, may you be TRULY happy! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! Here’s to a long and sucessful endeavor for you, and I wish you nothing but the best.
I received a call from a legal services agency yesterday, and they are in the process of moving their offices from my neck of the woods to Albuquerque. I have an interview with them today. Not sure what will come out of this, but it may lead to either this or something else. Will let you know. I am just grateful that this interview came within less than 4 weeks of unemployment, and I hope this is a good sign. Wish me luck!
Adding my two more cents Annie…
In my opinion… you were doing it right all along. It’s true we learn as we go along, but from all I read from you I think you did great. This stuff just takes time. Just like finding a good mate, it’s about finally finding the right match as much as it is about any of the individuals involved. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Annie, congrats on finally arriving!
God was testing you.
Finally, you opened your heart to listen, acted wisely and generously received.
I am so proud of you!
Oh Annie…WUHOOOOOOOO!! What wonderful news. So happy for you. Good luck with your new job and move. And yes… please let us know how you’re doing.
Hope this is the beginning of a new round of good news comments. 😉 Thanks so much for letting us know, Annie. Uh oh…I feel another one coming…WUHOOooOOOooOOOO!! 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi All..
I have been out for a while and completely out of discussion By D catherine and Ronnie…. well..I have received an offer from a finance firm and I am starting coming week… 🙂 I am very excited about my new opportunity… and I wish all you guys pots and pots of luck…
I am relocating to a new place…so as soon as I am all settled I should get back on replying and sharing my views…
Good times are here again…:)
Great conversation! This is why I love my readers. 😉
Catherine…to answer all your questions would take a book. 😉 You’re in a period of exploration and as D said…this is a great time to let your heart lead. (Otherwise we’re just building toward stuff we don’t want anyway.)
The main thing is to know you may not find the ideal job this time (then again you might) – but if needed maybe a few “baby stepping jobs” will get you there in time. Also…sometimes after a few bad jobs, we want to be extra careful – but all you can do is your best, trust your gut, and explore where it is leading you. Explore relentlessly and see yourself succeeding – and trust that sometimes a path that looks inviting even if not the dream job is a perfectly good next step. I know you will find a place that appreciates YOU for who you are and all you have to offer – and where you can feel good about the work you and the organization are doing.
But just know…once a new career journey begins…it may surprise you with even more answers years from now! That’s happened to me a few times. In the meantime, explore paths that call and give yourself any learning (when you can) or extra experience (volunteering can be done on a trial basis until you find a place that fits) and step by step you build toward your future.
Good luck!
Oh…and Jonny…I had to laugh. I know what you mean. When I worked in city government, we had one guy who looked at us and said “I can s*it on my boss’s desk and he can’t fire me!” (He was not the only one with that attitude I assure you.) But…when I was a Director (yup…I was one of them 😉 ) I and many of the people worked with did our best to try to make changes that really mattered – and also tried our best to help the people our agency was meant to help.
So in my experience, while I indeed saw some of what you saw (and I am sure each place is different) I can tell you I worked with truly caring people across agencies and we worked hard to try to make a difference. And I fought for my staff – and I wasn’t alone in doing that either. Still…it’s even worse than job search. You have to be incredibly patient and realize change comes slow…and sometimes takes one step back for every two steps forward – or even sometimes the reverse!
I’ve worked in private industry, non-profit, academia and government and have to say…sometime it’s the luck of the draw. One of the meanest places I ever worked was a non-profit that was known for it’s wonderful work. One of the best places? All My Children as an extra – but that wasn’t going to pay my rent. Wherever you go – go eyes wide open and know there will stuff you couldn’t have ever imagined that will drive you nuts! 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
I have to agree with governmental / Federal agency thingy. It is beyond nightmare. The biggest thing is there are lazy fat cats just couple of years or so away from retirement and having benefits paid by the younger sorry taxpayers. And great majority of people in managerial and supervisory positions are real nasty group of people. And they seldom do any work. And they do an awful lot of yelling and screaming. By far the best choice to look for and aim for are the following: private firm, non-profit organization, your own business. That’s it. Never work for local, state, or Federal government unless you are really young and you only intend to park there for 2 years max.
Thanks Jonny, for your comment. I have worked for the Feds when I was younger, and have recently worked with State Governmental entities for the past 8 years. I miss it, and the private industry just won’t allow me to fit in.
Catherine:
By no means do I think you are hateful. You are seeking career advice regarding the direction you should head.
Again, follow your heart and passion. Anything less will cause problems including unhappiness in the near future.
From my experience, working for the Government was extremely stressful and a nightmare. Nothing ever gets done by deadline; backroom deals benefiting the lawmakers and their friends; people are hired to prevent YOU from doing your job. Ugh, a nightmare. I could not wait to leave. Never again, will I work for any governmental agency.
I have friends and my mother-in-law works for the State Government. She’s a director, who is so unhappy. She wants to quit; however, she retires in less than 4 years. Nevertheless, she’s dealing with the B.S. and counting her days until retirement.
D-the Feds job? I had two job offers. The Feds wanted to pay me $30,000 but I would have been a paralegal. The other job was with the private firm and that was $44,000 a year. I was foolish. I told the private firm that I would let them know on Friday by 5 p.m. my decision. Otherwise, I would have no job. I told the Feds that too, but they were still looking up references and couldn’t give me an answer on Friday, and there was no guarantee of the job. I accepted the offer with the private firm on Friday. On Monday the Feds called me. I felt I had a loyalty to the firm that hired me first. So I went with that. I ended up having the boss from hell, who was less than communicative with me and she was sooo disorganized. It made me sour on the prospect of ever getting back into the field again. Anyway, that is the story on that. As far as my earlier comments, I wanted to make extra sure that I wrote the proper responses, because I didn’t want you to think that I was hateful concerning your comments. Any criticism helps, and I appreciated it.
Catherine:
how did you let the Feds job get away? Perhaps, we can offer advice.
Catherine:
I misunderstood your initial comments.
I know your daughter is proud of you; so am I. Sometimes, our moods, comments and actions display something different. Just do not give up.
Volunteering provides an opportunity to develop new skills, meet new friends, and see other avenues you may not have considered. For example, volunteering at a law firm doesn’t mean you need to utilize your paralegal experiences strictly for the attorneys. There are marketing, sales, IT, etc departments within the firm/company/organization that can utilize your talents and perspective. Your knowledge can add value to a marketing brochure, social media site or media materials. You never know.
Never discount an opportunity by focusing on your present skills. You always want to expand your knowledge, expertise and presence.
Follow your instinct. Do not base your career on what’s hot at the moment. Do what you love, what interest you, and follow your passion.
thought this was a good article.
http://enewsletters.biospace.com/rhw/newsletter/good-news-for-bad-references.htm?type=email&source=js-07-19-10
No offense D, but it is not negative thinking, just batting around some ideas. I am no longer interested in working for private companies. I have had my fill of them in the past. I have the capability and the experience to work for the Feds. I let one job get away; I am not letting another get away from me for the private sector.
Secondly, my daughter sees that I am trying, and looking at all avenues, and she is proud of me.
Thirdly, I want to volunteer, just want to make the best of my volunteer experience.
P.S. To all those out there, volunteer experience is sometimes more important than paid experience because you are doing it for free.
I am “fishing” for information from those who are already in or have formerly been in those career fields, and can provide information for me to make a decision that is logical and not based upon emotions.
But thanks anyway. RonnieAnn, anything you can add at this point?
Catherine, thanks for the compliment; however, this is not about me, it is about you.
Here is another loving kick in your rear.
First thing first, stop feeling sorry for yourself. It is playing havoc on your confidence, and you are sending mixed (negative) signals to your daughter. She is networking, interviewing and continuing her quest by not giving up. Your actions are not providing the support SHE needs from a strong mother who perseveres. I hope you are not complaining to her about your issues.
Companies ARE hiring in your field. YOU are NOT leaving the house to network. Do you expect people to ring your doorbell and offer you a job? Do you expect potential net workers to accidentally dial your phone? Well, it ain’t gonna happen.
You need to take matters into your hands and become proactive. Presently, you’re in a reactive (crisis) mode where you are seeing negativity everywhere.
Ok, you’re interested in attending school, but you’re broke. Apply for a government grant. (See link above). Scholarships = free money! Apply for the grants.
You can’t find a paralegal job. Contact your local Bar Association, law offices, government offices, not-for-profit organizations to VOLUNTEER. This is your foot in the door, while learning new skills.
Why are you focusing on “blossoming careers”? Focus on YOUR career! If you want to become a teacher, social worker or paralegal, that’s your focus. Stop worrying or concentrating on what’s blossoming. Remember, each spring cherry trees blossoms. Eventually, the blossoms fade and die. Next year, same thing. You should not focus on alleged blossoming careers. Nothing lasts forever.
Ok, you’re bored. Here are a few things to occupy your time:
1) Update your resume.
2) Research 6 potential schools you are interested in attending. Now, schedule a tour of the school. Alternatively, ask if you can audit (sit in) a class before registering.
3) Update your resume.
4) Prepare a generic cover letter. Later, you can target it.
5) Update your resume.
Lastly, do more than submit your resume on line. Follow-up with the companies.
Now, get up and get going!
ps: My foot is still in your rear. LOL!
I value everyone’s opinion on this board so much, I decided maybe I would go a different direction today. I hear so much about people being laid off or fired, like me, but I don’t hear much about what to do afterward. For example. I have taken approximately 6 credits in undergraduate classes AFTER receiving my Associates Degree. My Associates Degree is in Paralegal Studies, but right now, the market is really tough.
I look out there for what companies are hiring for what jobs, but I don’t think I am one to get into the healthcare field. I need scholarships to pay for my education, because I am broke right now.
I thought about being a teacher, but there are layoffs for teachers right now. I thought about being a lawyer but don’t want to spend another 5 years doing so. I thought about being a social worker, but not sure if that field is in demand.
I am sooooooooo lost right now. I will be 50 in August, and am at a crossroads. I don’t think I want to stay in my field, but would like something that I can utilize my skills.
I know I have people skills, but I need a bachelor’s degree now to get by. 5-10 years ago an Associates degree was all you needed, but now, the competition is fierce.
I am also applying to the Federal Govt., because my past experience with private firms, (especially my last 1 month stint with an over-demanding and obnoxious boss) kind of dampened my enthusiasm for the field at all. I had a Federal Job in the past, but that was in 1986, and I am eligible for rehire (just meaning I get “extra points” over someone else applying).
I know what careers seem to be “blossoming” out there right now, but don’t know what it will be like in a couple of years when I get out of school.
Also, I am soooo bored. I wake up, submit applications, and halfway through the day I am done for the day. I want to volunteer, but would like to volunteer for something that might bring about a job in a field that I want to be in (not sure what that is??)
Bottom line. Not sure what direction to take. Don’t want to spin in circles. My questions are…
1. Are any of you current or former….teachers, social workers?
2. Are any of you going to school right now and making ends meet (i.e. were you on scholarships and able to make rent, etc. while going to school)
3. For those of you in your fields, are you finding that the jobs just aren’t there?
4. What do you do to fill your time when your job hunting is done for the day?
5. Have any of you thought about a different field than the one you are in? what are you doing about it?
A lot to think about. Please help. Any suggestions will help.
And…credit to D-She is the one that got me thinking long and hard about these questions.
Sorry for the gender mixup D. Sarah went to her interview today, and the interviewer said very good answer, after she answered him. The questions were standard, and he did not ask her if she had any questions, but at the end of the interview she did ask questions, and thanked the interviewer for his time. He said he had other applicants, BUT, her answers were very good, and, even if she did not get hired in electronics, he stated there were other positions open. He said he would call her in a couple of days, or she can call him if he doesn’t get back to her in a couple of days. One thing I did when she was younger was read to her, and often. When she got older, she started reading books on her own, so her vocabulary for a 17 year old is very well established. Plus…unfortunately, she has seen me go to PLENTY of interviews, and has received tips from me (which I ALSO got from this board!) and I think she handled herself well. She is competing against older people because of the economy, but she managed to get an excellent recommendation letter from her last volunteer position, and also told stories about her last position to her new potential employers, to try to weave her experience into the prospective job, so I think she did well and she thinks she did well. Not bad for a first job interview!
Catherine Earl
Way to go, Catherine!! Yippee!
If you obtain a job before you graduate, your employer may provide education assistance (MONEY)toward your degree. This is one of the benefits many employees fail to utilize.
How did your daughter’s interview go? Did she get the job at Walmart? Let us know.
I love Walmart. Strange, but before becoming unemployed, I never shopped or stepped inside of a Walmart or other discount store. Now, I enjoy shopping there for basic staples (bread, milk, etc.)
Guess you can say, “I’ve been humbled.”
BTW, I am a female.
D-All I can say is….WOW. You go guy! I submitted my application to UNM yesterday and paid my fee. STEP ONE!
Here is an update from my July 14th posting:
1) 1st recruiter – Today, I spoke with the company’s hiring manager regarding the position. Good interview; no curve balls (strange questions). During the interview, she continually stated, “You will be… You will report to…You, You, You.” Good to hear; however, I am not stressing if the position will or will not be offered to me. She is passing her notes and my resume to the VP of Marketing Communications. Within the hour, I will send her a “Thank You” email.
2) Last week, I completed my phone interview with the Talent Acquisition Manager of a Fortune 1000 company regarding an open position not advertised on the job boards. Interesting conversation. The interviewer asked questions NOT based on the job description. I rolled with the punches, and continually pointed out my skills are transferable for the position. She tried to throw curve balls, which I confidently responded on how my transferable skills can proactively increase visibility with the public, elected officials and investors. I followed-up with a “Thank You” email. Sure, it would be nice to secure the position; however, I will NOT dwell over it. Nor, will I prevent me from seeking other available opportunities. We just will see what happens.
3) Yesterday, I officially became one of five moderators of a LinkedIn group with more than 30,000 members. You would not believe the schemes, frauds, cons that some people post. Deleted them.
4) Board member and I are playing phone tag. LOL! I am positive we will connect within the next couple of days.
5) The City’s annual Business Expo was so much fun! I met many business owner seeking to increase their revenue; however, not the number of employees. Initially, volunteering for only five hour, but I volunteered for the entire Expo. The strange part? My initial supervisor arrived 2 hours late to the event. After he arrived, no one could locate him. Instead of getting pissed off, verbally communicating my disappointment to other volunteers and leaving in a huff, I asked the volunteer director for another assignment. Immediately, she reassigned me to another director, who placed me in a supervisory position. My direct reports were wonderful, friendly and hard working. No snafus! Everything flowed smoothly where the director never checked on anything. He focused on other areas.
What is next for me? To continue to secure that elusive, yet close, position. I do not want a job. I want to land a position where I can continue to increase my knowledge, skills and networking power. Big difference!
Thanks D! Taking notes. 😉
Catherine…all the best to your daughter. Fingers, legs and eyes crossed for her. As for you…cool move on the scholarships and everything else. (Thanks again D.) Wonderful new adventures and great opportunities await.
BTW…never knew about Avue Central for government jobs. Just looked it up. Thanks! Other good sources of federal government jobs: USAJOBS (official federal site), job search engines like Monster and CareerBuilder, as well as resources (including list of individual agency sites) from the marvelous Job-Hunt Org
Wishing you all great things! (Soon. 😉 )
~ Ronnie Ann
D-thanks for the kick in the rear end. I am calling the college today for more info on teaching scholarships and enrolling. BTW, to all of you; My 17 year old daughter is getting an interview at Walmart. Thanks to all of your comments and to RonnieAnn, she is prepared for the interview since she has looked at the information on some of the possible interview questions. This will be her second interview of HER LIFE, and I wish her luck. Thanks everyone!
Catherine: Congrats, on taking the first step in getting your career back on track! I’m extremely proud of you.
I know it’s scary, but YOU CAN DO IT!
You’re going to receive rejection emails, encounter rude people and emotionally think your efforts will never pay off. Believe me, that’s a good thing.
These things are a normal part of the SUCCESS process. Ya think Bill Gates, Steve Forbes, Oprah or President Obama succeeded on their first, second, third or fourth effort. Nope!
When Obama ran for U.S. Congressman, he lost. Nevertheless, that did not deter him. He regrouped and retried. He was elected U.S. Senator (D-IL), and presently, the U.S. President.
Bill Gates NEVER finished college. Although potential employers continued to say, “no” he pursued his dream. Now, he’s one if not THE richest man in the world.
Oprah…well, everyone knows her story. She was molested, fired from her tv job, overweight, African American, a woman, and somewhat obnoxious (personal opinion). Sponsors were hesitant to buy spots on her show. However, she never gave up! Sure, she had several pity parties; however, she never gave up.
There are thousands upon thousands of men and women who were laid off, fired, downsized, etc from their job. Temporarily, they wallowed in their misery. BUT, they never gave up. Many of these people are successful business owners who hire others! They consider being fired, laid off, downsized a blessing.
This is YOUR blessing. Appreciate it.
Again, congrats on moving forward. I am so proud of you.
If you ever need another “kick in the rear end” just let us know. We will be happy to accommodate you. 😉
-d
This is all so inspiring! I love the energy coming out of this thread of comments and all of you. Best of luck Catherine and everyone! (Gee…hope I’m not coming dangerously close to Tiny Tim’s “God bless us everyone.” 😉 )
~ Ronnie Ann
D-What great words to live by! I think you will get a really great job shortly. As for Annie and all the others, I was a little down today, until I logged onto AveCentral (govt website) and saw all the jobs I could apply for. I will be applying for at least 30 tomorrow. I will also be looking at volunteering somewhere (maybe I can find out if I fit in anywhere) and also look into the scholarships for going back to school. I graduated in 1994, and, it would be kind of scary, but I’m ready to move onward and upward. I just have to keep my focus on exactly what I want and it will come.
Hi Annie! Hope you hear something soon. I know you keep yourself going and I also know it’s hard. Maybe some of D’s ideas – or any you can come up with – will help shake things up for you so it doesn’t feel like all you’re doing is looking. Volunteering or creating a short-term assignment for yourself can be fun as well as offering potential leads. It’s so hard…and then, as you’ve seen often here, something happens and you get the job. Hang in, Annie. You really have a lot to offer. May someone smart enough to see it come along soon! 😉
Hi Catherine! Really sorry you wound up in a job that didn’t work out. Great advice though. Thanks. I love how you reach out to others. Hopefully the right job will come along this time. Gotta say…I’ve had a few wrong jobs that for really unforeseeable reasons wound up contributing to a future job. Hope that’s the case. In any event…big hug and best of luck finding the good one now. 😉
D…Thank you so much for some great tips. You have a strong clear voice and I love that you come from a place of really wanting to help. To me the strongest message comes from results…and I see you are making things happen for yourself. And you are keeping yourself busy with things that feed your spirit as well as offer potential job lead now and in the future. I wish you tremendous luck in finding a place that matches your many skills.
My best to you all! Time for some more good news soon I hope.
~ Ronnie Ann
Sorry, I forgot something…
On Friday, I volunteered to be a media liaison for the city’s annual free Business Expo. For 5 hours, I will interact with media. (Note: I have more than 10 years of media/public relations experience.) After my shift, I’ll explore the Expo and have access to business owners, entrepreneurs, etc.
One hell of a way and place to network! Plus, as a volunteer, I’m working with the City, and receive free breakfast and lunch.
Catherine: Since you lack a bachelor’s degree, you should research and apply for various types of private and government scholarships and grants (free money for education). The money is available; however, you must apply NOW!
Annie: Although this is not a site focusing on religion, I’ll add my 50 cents (inflation, ya know).
Here goes…Every day, God is “testing” you; however, how are you responding to His test? Are you sitting around feeling sorry for yourself and complaining about “there are no jobs?” or are you taking action?
STOP listening and believing there “are no jobs” in this country! There are plenty of unfilled, unadvertised jobs available. You need to continue networking, volunteering and stop being/thinking negative regarding the alleged lack of jobs in your field.
How many times have you:
1) Contacted someone in your field for an informational interview?
2) Invited someone for a quick meet and greet (coffee and maybe lunch)?
3) Introduced yourself to your 2nd & 3rd degree LinkedIn contacts?
4) Volunteered?
Believe me, all of the above work!
I’ve utilized them and my contact/networking list continues to grow. I’m not the type to send the standard LinkedIn invite, “I’d like to add you to my professional network…” That greeting really sucks!
Whenever I contact someone, I add a personal note regarding WHY I want to network. Months later, I send ALL of my contacts a follow-up email NOT asking for something, but OFFERING something. To date, I have generated long-lasting contacts that have sent me unadvertised jobs, referred me to one of their contacts, etc. If I see something I think would interest my contact(s), I send an email (Paying it forward.)
From my efforts, here’s what’s going on from my end:
1) On Friday, I emailed a resume and cover letter applying for a position. On Monday, the recruiter called to schedule a phone interview for Wednesday. Great interview and the recruiter passed my resume and her notes to the confidential company. Today, the hiring director called me. We’re scheduled to chat on Monday.
2) Same Friday, I emailed my resume and cover letter to a Fortune 1000 company regarding an open position not advertised on the job boards. On Monday, the company’s Talent Acquisition Manager email me seeking a time and date for an interview. It’s tomorrow.
3) On Monday, I became one of five moderators of a LinkedIn group with more than 30,000 members. The owner sought volunteers, immediately, I responded privately. The next day, he responded. Days later, he trained me.
4) On Tuesday, a well-respected board member of an organization in which I belong, finally called me regarding volunteer opportunities. I have not had an opportunity to call her; however, tomorrow I will.
Although being unemployed for quite some time has damaged my one-time excellent credit rating, I continue to press on for that one opportunity. I do NOT get depressed. I do NOT listen to the B.S. regarding the alleged lack of jobs available. I do NOT hold pity parties nor attend them.
Finally, I do NOT allow ANYONE (recruiters/hiring agents/etc) or CIRCUMSTANCES (poor credit rating) to define me. My faith is in God; not man.
I would like that too, Annie. Carsley, how’s the job hunting going? I have considered maybe volunteering in my field, and maybe I can find a job that way. I am also thinking about a totally different career field by getting my bachelor’s degree then a teachers certificate. Is anyone doing that now? How does someone go to school full time and still get their bills paid I’m a little scared.
Catherine I know what you talking about….but sometimes I feel instead of facing unemployment for a longer time…its good to take up a job and cover the resume gap or get a new perspective in finding the ideal job!… I feel if we dont venture out and make mistakes we wouldn’t know whats the best for us.
I just wish we all on this job board get a good news soon….Myself i feel very exhausted looking for jobs and going through the whole process of networking, applications, follow ups…etc… I feel god is just testing my patience levels…!! 🙁
Btw: I still havent heard back from the fortune 500 recruiter …have sent him a follow up email..but still no response!
EVERYBODY. Hang in there! I had a job 6 weeks ago, and took the money, because it paid well. I ended up working for one attorney that was really nice and organized, and the other that absolutely hated me and wanted me out in the worst way, so she made sure that what I did was never good enough. Just DON’T make the mistake of taking a job just because its there. If you get two offers, then think long and hard. I took the other job because of the money and gave up a federal job that was also waiting. Too bad. Now I am back on the unemployment line, and am pissed that I took the first job. Just make sure you RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH each company and ask the age-old question….Why is this position open?
@ Ronnie: Been job hunting for a while now…so I guess the desperation is seeping into me…these days it gets difficult for me to remain sane!!… I will always wish nobody goes through unemployment phase ever in their life…Its the worse thing to happen to anyone!!…..
But I wish all the readers and especially you a big thank you for wishing me luck!!…I’ll surely keep everyone posted!
Hi Catherine! Nice to see you. Amen to what you said. 😉 Have been thinking of you. Hope you’re doing ok. Big hug!
Annie…all I can do is join the rest of my readers in wishing you all the best. Fingers crossed. Please don’t worry so much about each answer – it’s really about the over-all picture. The phone screening was just to see if you are a viable candidate for the recruiter to present. I’m sure you did fine or it wouldn’t even have been 22 minutes. If there’s a fit, you’ll get the interview. If not…it wasn’t the fact that you repeated a question or two. Really. Hoping to hear good news soon…
Please let us know. BEST of luck!!
~ Ronnie Ann
@Catherine: Well, I know its a good thing getting an interview call from them. But, I was expecting a formal Interview with Behavioral qts.. I asked few relevant qt to the recruiter about the project n needs….and he absolutely had no clue about it!!…So I am not sure how to rate myself with the informal interview with him. And not to mention my irrelevant qts to fill in the silence…I am hoping it dosent go against me!
I so want to work for the position…its a very easy position and their office is local to where I stay!!..It would perfect for me!!… I can come to my husband after work….
Annie! You got a job interview from a RECRUITER? from a 500 FORTUNE COMPANY? THATS a miracle in itself! I haven’t received a call from a Fortune 500 company in YEARS! You should consider yourself as one of the best if someone from a Fortune 500 company chose YOUR resume out of possibly THOUSANDS to call you!
I just had a phone interview with a recruiter from a fortune 500 company. It lasted not more than 22 mins.. He asked very basic question about my resume and what can I get to the job. At some points because of my nervousness I found myself repeating some of his points…. he said he would respond back with the 2 round interview decision to my by monday afternoon… I have my fingers crossed… I hope my repetition of qts dont back fire at me.. Hoping for the best!!..
Its getting tougher and tougher…I feel some miracle should come my way and get me a good offer..!!… I have tried everything …but just not been lucky!!…
Just want to also send a special hug to Catherine, if you’re there. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Oh Carsley. I know how exhausting and depressing this can be. I wish I could give you a big hug. The awful thing about a job search is it feels like nothing until it’s something.
Try to imagine how it would feel to be in an interview that goes really well and then imagine the job offer is coming. Use that attitude to keep going. It will come. I’ve seen lots of talented people go through ridiculously long draining job searches…and then THEIR job finally comes. I will see that happening for you, ok? Join me. 😉
Best of luck!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Thanks ann for supporting me.
Still hunting and waiting. Really dont know what to do.
Having depress. Another weekend again soon.
D Weathersby –
Thanks for the kind words. I hope you have a great holiday & weekend.
Ronnie Ann-
Thanks for your encouragement. I will keep you posted on my search. Hopefully, I’ll have an offer soon.
Have a great weekend & holiday.
Hi Charity! I was just getting round to telling you how sorry I am and offering a big hug, when D snuck in. 😉 (Thanks D!! Charity begins at home. Just great.)
I love the way D tells it like it is. We all know how awful it feels to be rejected (even though we did nothing wrong) and I think it’s good to be in touch with that feeling. And then we shake it off and get on to what we really need to do to get what we deserve. But in the meantime, I think a big hug is still ok. Yes? {{{Charity}}}
I wish you all the best, Charity, and hope you can push this to the side for now and enjoy the weekend. After that…you can find the job that was really meant for you anyway.
Best of luck!! Please stay in touch and let us know how you’re doing.
~ Ronnie Ann
Best of luck Carsley. If it helps to have people rooting for you, please count me in. 😉
Hi Fary! The most important thing about this original post is the first line which tells the only way to know for sure how an interview went: “You get the job.” As I look at what you wrote, I see only good news. You still seem to be in the running for the first job. Give it some time. People may be on vacation. And there are lots of things that go on behind the scenes before an offer can be made.
If you haven’t heard by say next Wednesday, try again. (Gives them a day to get back from a long holiday weekend.) Great about the second interview. Sometimes fate offers us an opening or at least an extra chance. And ya never know!
In the meantime, keep looking and try to stay reasonably sane. 😉 Looks like some good things are happening for you. Why not just focus on that and enjoy the weekend – at least for now. 😉
Fingers, legs and eyes crossed for you!! Please let us know what happens.
~ Ronnie Ann
Charity:
I’m sorry to hear that you received a rejection letter. Although you will feel sad regarding not receiving a positive response from that job, at least you know how to proceed…onward and forward.
Some companies never send letters or respond to candidates they interviewed.
Now, you have 72 hours (3 days) to whimper, ask “why, why, why” , feel sorry for yourself, and have a pity party. You can talk to others about not receiving an offer; however, do not dwell on it.
Since it’ll take place during the 4th of July holiday, your pity party will actually be a celebration of our county.
On Monday, the parties completely stop and the interviews continue!
Though it may seem like that was your ‘dream job’ or you were extremely qualified for the position, eventually you would’ve bumped heads with the “standoffish” interviewer. Not a comfortable work environment.
“Charity begins at home, but should not end there”
Proverb quotes
I received a rejection letter. Yes, I’m still getting interviews, but I’m just kind of down. Thanks for the well wishes.
“Strange is our Situation Here Upon Earth.”
Albert Einstein
Hi!,
Well remember I said I had an interview and it went perfect, the CEO said he was going to call back within the end of last week or the beginning of this one, he even said He didn’t see why they wouldn’t hire me. Well I haven’t got a call from them, I called to ask if they already had a decision in regard the position and the person on that position is still there, but she wasn’t on Monday that I called. So I am not sure what is going on, or if I suppose to call again.
And remember I said that the same day I wrote down the comment here I had an interview but it didn’t went well, it was kind of for the same position but bilingual, and I kind of didn’t like it because they were interviewing about 5 people from those 5 they were going to choose 2 for a second interview and from those 2 they will choose the one. But I got a call yesterday they telling me, about my second interview on Friday, I was like “?”, I accepted the interview.
But I thought the first interview went a lot better and the CEO liked me and even with what Ronnie Ann post about “how the job interview went list” for me everything was a yes on the first interview. So i can’t really understand why they haven’t call me.
I will just have to wait and see..
Thanks Ann.
It been no news on the second interview that i had last week.
Well, keep searching and searching.
Carsley
One more note to Carsley…
Keep going full steam ahead (ahem) with maritime job search, but sometimes during a recession it helps to widen your search. There are always ways to transfer skills back to where you really want to be. I graduated from college during a huge recession and, when I couldn’t find jobs in my own field, found something interesting elsewhere. There’s always a way, but sometimes we need to be creative in where we look. Might also be a good time to ask friends, family, former teachers, for some ideas.
And, if your heart is absolutely set on a job in Maritime NOW, as Annie reminds us “it’s just the economy!!…… You just need to hang in there…and keep on trying.”
Best of luck!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Thanks to everyone for filling in so well. Great advice!!
Not much for me to add except…for those waiting to hear back…big hug. And for those still looking and feeling the strain…well, big hug too of course. 😉
Also..as hard as it is especially when this process drags on (especially for Carsley if this offer doesn’t come through) – keep reminding yourself of all the good things you have to offer, find contacts that help you go around the regular process and directly to someone in the company who can help, maybe do some practice interviews just to feel at the top of your game, and keep applying every chance you get with a solid resume and cover letter that helps pe0ople clearly see how you fit the job in question. And remember that during the interview too. They are looking for a person they’d like to work with as much as one who can do the job.
As for Lori…you did great. As they say…uh..stuff happens. 😉
Good luck Lori and Carsley…and of course Fary and Annie and everyone else! Please keep us posted.
~ Ronnie Ann
Thank you, D for the great welcome and for your candid response. Being out of the interview process all these years, I am understandably not as comfortable with it. (I wish I had come across this blog sooner; I liked your advice about being at a family reunion!)
I left the first interview on top of the world, and even with a lens misap and a bit of nervousness during the second, perhaps I am acting a bit like a nervous nelly … which is not me at all.
I am not going through a recruiter; the hiring manager will call me directly. I want to be prepared to respond appropriately either way.
I should hear from her early next week and will let you know if I receive an offer.
Thanks again for your sound advice!
Take care,
~Lori
Welcome, Lori!
This is a no holds bar site, where although we provide advice, we try not to insult nor sugar coats our views/opinions.
You may like some of our opinions/advice; others you may not. Some you may like; others you may/might not.
First, not everyone receives a job offer from every potential employer. Oftentimes, the employer offers the position to someone who is/was: a) more qualified; b) a better fit for the company/organization; c) recommended by a friend/family/boss/etc; or d) less qualified to justify paying a lower salary.
You were nervous during the second interview. Got it. Everyone experiences nervousness during interviews.
Your lens fell out of your glasses during a second interview, and you were a “bit out-of-focus”? Got it.
No big deal. Try sitting in an interview and the person unintentionally passes gas, burps or stomach groans. Embarrassing? Yes. Detrimental? No.
(Years ago, I interviewed with a Fortune 500 company. During lunch with the Senior Vice President and Senior Manager, I accidentally left my purse near the microwave. Immediately, the Sr. Manager and I returned by the microwave to retrieve my purse, went back to the lunch table to rejoin the SVP, and continued our conversation. There was no need to panic or be embarrassed. $hit happens to EVERYONE.
Two days later, I received a job offer and a call from the SVP stating she enjoyed our lunch. We laughed about the mishap. Again, $hit happens.)
I do not see (no pun intended) a problem.
What do you say if you do not get the job offer?
Two options:
1) Immediately send a thank you note/email highlighting how your experience can increase the bottom line (i.e.: revenue) for the company;
2) If you receive a rejection, call the recruiter or person who makes the final decision, and inquire why you were not selected for the position:
3) Continue interviewing with other employers.
Next time your lens pops out of your glasses during an interview, casually pick it up and continue the conversation without wearing your glasses. No need to dwell or feel embarrassed.
Hi all. I just found this website and appreciate any feedback you can offer.
At the end of May, I was laid-off from my employer of nearly twenty years. I applied for the perfect position and I had two interviews last week. The first interview went extremely well (before the interview even ended I was told that I would be called back for a second one). During the second interview a lens fell out of my glasses and while I feel that I answered the questions, I was nervous and perhaps a bit “out-of-focus” (no pun intended). They will call early next week with their decision. What do I say if I do not get the job offer?
Thanks Annie.
Annie. Solid advice. Good one.
@ Ronnie: I wish all your words come true!!… After 2-3 days of disappointment I am back with a positive strike!!.. I am sure something will come my way soon!!…
@ Fary: I am sure u’ll hear from them soon…If you don’t please keep on following up with them..which will show your perseverance and ability of following up with client/customer/PM… and sometimes HR tests you on these skills!!… Good Luck I wish you all the luck for a positive response!
@Carsley: I am also in my mid-20’s …and I am of the belief that age isnt the barrier these days, its just the economy!!…… You just need to hang in there…and keep on trying……There is no definite checklist for an successful interview, your inner-self will be the best judge about the results..so trust your instincts. I wish you luck !! 🙂
Hi all
Need advice, as my confident is super low.
Been couple of months, i been jobless and i am just graduate from college in maritime industry. I dont understand why i cant get i, at least a company.
For your info, 2 days ago, i went to my second interview. been inform during the end of the interview, HR says will call me this / next week. Never talk about salary. I think gone case.
Really hope to get this job, as i always put effort into interview, but things always doent goes right to me always. Moreever my age isnt young, middle 20’s.
Any guide, sign, that showing any positive news? should i call next week to follow up?
From what you said, me too Fary. 😉 Good luck!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Thanks Annie and Ronnie Ann for the quick response!… Haven’t heard from the company but they sure told me will call on Friday or Monday , Hopefully they call and is a good response. I did had an interview today with another company, and it didn’t went that well, it did for me, but the 2 employees talk to me so bad about the people that has been in that position before so I am not sure I would like to join them.
Oh I am hoping the first company call me, Seriously !!!…
Fary
Oh Annie! So sorry about the puzzle-question job. But from my blogservations of you, any company that finally gets you will be very lucky. This one clearly wasn’t for you. A place that judges on a question like that, especially under the circumstances, may not have the human values you deserve. I wish for an amazing job to come your way soon!! Oh…and thanks so much for the lovely support to Fary.
Hi Fary! Looks like you did really well, and now…assuming you sent your thank you note…all you can do is just give it time. Believe me, they remember you 😉 and will let you know when they’ve completed interviews and any other processes they need to take care of. I wish you much luck. Please let us know what happens!
Best of luck to you both. ~ Ronnie Ann
@Ronnie ..remember my interview with the puzzle question and on which I was waiting for my 3rd round of interview… I received a reject from them!!.. I am really disappointed with their decision I felt I did well and deserved an In-person Interview.
@Fary: If you sense positive vibes after your interview…..then you will surely get a positive reply!!.. Looks like you have made a good impression on CEO and I think that counts a lot!..and let us know about their decision!!… I Wish you lots of luck!!…
Hi,
I had an interview yesterday, I think it went pretty well, the guy said he liked me, and I looked perfect for that job. He said that people like me he need it around there, he is the CEO from that organization.
We were talking for almost 40 minutes, we ended up talking really personal things about kids, and married life, and my family.
At the end of the interview he said he really liked me and will definetly give me an answer at the end of the week or beginning of next week.
So I don’t know what to think but I am going to wait until next tuesday.
Do you think I need to call them on Tuesday to ask for an answer, or if a decision has been made?
Thanks!…. I am just really anxious.
Ronnie…thanks for your wishes..I so need them!!… Interviewer had informed me during my my 2nd round of telephonic interview… that they would contact me within 2-4 weeks regarding the 3rd round of the interview. Its been 2 weeks and one day… so do you think I should write a follow up email by friday ?? Or wait untill the 4th week…? I am getting very anxious about the results.. my patience is running out…!!!… Please let me know if my approach is right!!…
Thanks a ton!
-Annie
Great summary, Annie. Best of luck! We are most definitely waiting to hear what happens – and of course hope there is good news of a 3rd interview.
~ Ronnie Ann
Awww!! thanks D & Ronnie for your encouragement… I would typically hear back from them in another 2 weeks for my 3rd (in -person) interview (That is if I get selected, fingers crossed)… Will surely keep you guys updated…!!! I love love D’s idea of treating the Interviewer as a family/frnd…..2 things learnt from this Blog:
1. Go with the flow
2. Treat them as a part of family/frnd etc… (will surely relax my nerves)
You did exactly right, Annie. Using your thank you note to show your determination was exactly the thing to do. Smart.
And D…it took me a good while to figure it out and I love puzzles like this! 😉 So kudos to you Annie for getting it so quickly once you were out of interview mode.
Please let us know what happens, Annie. If he judges candidates on one puzzle, then his human skills are horrible and I’d hate to work for him anyway! But I’m giving him the benefit of the doubt. Heck…if i got asked that, I would probably have had brain freeze and danced around just like you did. And I’m TERRIFIC. Ahem. 😉
Like D says…you did good.
~ Ronnie Ann
Annie:
I would not worry about it.
Sounds like a wee bit of the interviewing jitters. Happens to all of us, including high level executives.
No matter how prepared we are, sometimes we experience jitters; forget to bring extra copies of our resumes; get tongue-tied or brain-dead when discussing our experience/background; or completely go numb after hearing the infamous question, “Tell Me About Yourself.”
How to handle these situations? Days before the interview, pack extra copies of your resume; practice your spiel; and relax.
I always pretend I’m at a family reunion and speaking with a relative (cousin/aunt/uncle/etc) whom I have not seen in a while. Happy to see the person and excited to talk about what I’ve accomplished.
Works every time.
Great that you emailed a thank you note along with the solution.
You did good.
-d
ps: Heck, I still don’t know the answer. LOL.
The puzzle was… I have been given 9 balls, 1 is heavier of them I have a weighing scale and 2 chances to identify the heavier ball…. It was very easy, but I guessed I got too worked up… I started discussing it with him…but even though he gave me few hints I got more confused…and couldn’t come to a solution…
I tried to solve the problem by using his hints… and sent him the solution along with thank you note… Just crossing my fingers, and hoping he dosent make a decision on that single logic puzzle…!!…Pheww…. Interviewing is stressful..
Annie:
Do NOT doubt yourself!
Please expand on the logic puzzle.
Sometimes the answer isn’t as logical as one may think it is. Other times, the interviewer wants to “see” how you react to tough situations/questions.
Here is a logic question/answer for a systems engineer. Since I’m not a systems engineer and do not have plans on becoming one or anything associated with math or logistics, I would not know the correct answer.
However, the candidate answered correctly. Go figure.
There is a body of water that starts with 1 square unit, and doubles in size every day (2 units after 2 days, 4 units after 4 days). It takes 100 days to fill up. How many days would it take to fill if you started with 2 square units?
Answer: 100 – 1 = 99 days
Oh Annie! I’ll be back later to say more. Way behind on comments and have to run out. But it is NOT you!!! This is tough. I’m good at puzzles and logic and it could easily have thrown me too. You did the exact right thing under the circumstances. Better than many could do! 😉 More when I can. BIG hug!!! ~ Ronnie Ann
I had my 2nd round of phone interview today morning …. I felt everything went well, just that in the end of the interview he asked me logic puzzle..which I couldn’t solve and give him the right answer… Although I walked him through my thought process… I dunno, if I would qualify for the next step!!… I really want this job….but dunno why things always look very tough for me….I have started to doubt myself and my confidence is badly shaken…
If anyone is interested, today’s post was written by John with a little extra thought here and there from me:
15 Job Search Tips from a Guy Who Just Got a Job
Thanks John! I’m so grateful you did this. And fyi…I’m getting GREAT feedback from all over thanking you.
~ Ronnie Ann
I’m so glad you joined our very friendly group which, if you include me, has at least one other shy person. 😉 Welcome, Charity! Best of luck!
~ Ronnie Ann
I meant tips. I’ve learned so much from this blog.
Ronnie Ann,
I definitely will. Also, thanks for all of the wonderful advice. I’ve been reading for a while..but I was just too shy to post.
Ronnie Ann:
Glad I could help. Continue relaxing.
Wow! (sitting with feet up relaxing) That was easy. 😉
D gave great answers, Charity. (Thanks D.) Very glad it helped. Truth is…it’s rarely about us.
Best of luck! Please let us know what happens.
~ Ronnie Ann
D-
Thanks for the advice. It really help put things in perspective.
Hi, Charity:
Congrats on the interview. I’m sure the interview went well, and the second person’s body actions were not a reflection of anything negative on your part.
Regarding the standoffish interviewer: Since you did not expand on what exactly she did that was standoffish, I’ll offer my $20 dollars instead of two cents (inflation, ya know)
1) She was probably having a bad day, but it unintentionally reflected in her lack of attentiveness.
2) She was not the person originally scheduled to interview you. At the last minute, she was asked to stand in. In essence, she did not have much to contribute to the interview.
3) She could be an introvert, while the other interviewer is more extroverted.
4) Your perception is somewhat incorrect. At times, we tend to read more or less into something than what is actually occurring.
I would not take it personally. Sometimes, we tend to take it out on others when things are not going the way we intend.
Send both interviews a nice thank you note, and move on to your next interview. I’m sure, soon, you will hear, “we’d like you to come on board!”
-d
I’m such a lurker, but I love all of the tips. I had and interview on Monday, but I’m not sure how it went.
One of my interviewer’s was really nice and helpful…but the other one wasn’t. Is that a bad sign? She seemed kind standoffish.
Please wish me luck. Good luck to everyone.
Congratulations Kate….Pots of good luck for your new job!!! 🙂
Go, Kate!!!! Congrats on the new job.
Congratulations Kate!!!
Looks like your patience paid off. Thanks for letting us know. Wuhoo!! May your good luck rub off on everyone here. 😉
All the best in your new job, Kate!
~ Ronnie Ann
hey guys, thanks for the support, I just heard back from my interviewer today and I got the job!!!
thanks catherine…I have my fingers crossed (hands & toes) 😀
Annie-Hang in there. Something is gonna come your way.
Hmmm…. I have sent thank you note to the employer I had a phone interview with…as I pray and hope for a second round…I have attend monster career fair and got few leads from there….It has boosted my confidence a lot… And I know it will happen to me one day… !!…I am positive..!! Thanks for your wonderful pieces..:) 🙂 …Will keep you all updated….
Thank YOU Annie. It’s e-mails like yours that make it all worth while. I try so hard to blend support with some down-to-earth advice I hope will help not only now but for the rest of people’s careers.
And now…and I’m telling only YOU this 😉 … I am writing from very hard-learned experience. I’ve pretty much been every one of you at some point. Early on in my career I was a terror. Then, after over 60 jobs (including lots of consulting work) and after lots of experience hiring folks, I could never see the interview process in the same way.
Now I know what goes on behind the scenes. And I know how hiring gets squeezed into an already full workload. And I know scheduling – just to get through the first round of interviews – can be a nightmare. And I know that different factions in an organization all too frequently don’t see eye to eye. I could go on and on.
But instead, I’ll leave you and everyone else with this wonderful comment from John, a long-suffering job seeker who finally FINALLY got a job and is now on the “other” side:
https://worktothewise.com/stuck-in-the-waiting-game-after-second-interview/comment-page-10/#comment-18613
Oh…and Annie…after all my years in the business world, go with the flow is one of the best pieces of advice anyone has ever taught me! (Well…once you’ve anticipated absolutely everything, taken all reasonable steps, and done all you can. 😉 )
Best of luck.
~ Ronnie Ann
oh…I so wish had joined this blog much much before… I love all your comments, it not only teaches me to be positive but also helps me to learn how to let go of things and not over analyze.. …
POINTER to be noted : “Go with the Flow”….Love it.. Its going to be my mantra from now on…
– Annie..
One more thing Mickey if I may:
Just got a great comment that makes Catherine’s point again:
https://worktothewise.com/stuck-in-the-waiting-game-after-second-interview/comment-page-9/#comment-18600
As I say in my answer “The job hunt is not a point in time… something that happens today can become a job in the future. If you think linear, you’ll not only be frustrated, you’ll lose opportunities you may one day wish you had. ”
Again, I wish you all the best. This is hard stuff and believe me, I know the process in general needs improving, but until they hire us to do so 😉 …try you’re best to go with the flow. Again and again, I’ve seen it work out well…even if “well” means a different offer was a better fit in the end. But of course, I hope this one does work out if it’s right for you.
Now…please let it go and see what happens. Set your mind on finding the right job for YOU. It will come – but it may decide to do so on it’s own schedule.
Now go do something fun, ok? 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi Annie…again I like what Catherine says. Define the ideal responsibilities to match what the job description says, making it fit (as best you can) with who you really are & what you want from a job. Be prepared to elaborate on any part of that if asked.
I can’t tell you exactly what to say – nor should you let anyone do that. Your words will ring true if they are true and that’s what makes a person stand out in an interview. The trick is blending what they want with who you are.
Best of luck!
~ Ronnie Ann
As one of my best friends always say, Mickey, no news is no news! 😉 When you only know half the story (or less than half) it’s like trying to read someone’s tea leaves using instant tea. I’ve read about and/or been personally involved in over a THOUSAND interviews, and your interviewers have done nothing out of the norm – in fact, they’re better than most so far. It will be what it will be.
Catherine (thank you!) offers wise words from real experience…stay in the half-full part of the glass, whether you get it or not. It’s like this out there, Mickey. Otherwise I wouldn’t have over 600 comments on this post alone!!! And seriously…compared to most, you’ve been treated really well.
If you’re the right fit, you’ll get the job. If not, find one that is. But don’t see them as the enemy – see them as potential friends. Careers last a LONG time and you never know when the friends you make now will help in the future. How you handle things now can set a pattern for the rest of your career.
Good luck!
~ Ronnie Ann
I would hope they would do that instead of not saying much. I keep hearing from my husband and everyone else that no news is good news. Well in this case, no news seems like bad news! ughhhh……LOL
Mickey, Ronnie is absolutely right about networking. The first firm I interviewed with did not hire me. The hiring manager then called me and asked me if she could circulate my resume to others who needed someone like me. I was happy for that. 5 days later I got the job I’m at now.
Annie, if you had that particular position, what do you think your responsibilities and role should be? If they described the position to you, you would probably have some idea.
ronnie …ronnie…ronnie….excuse for this one…
But how do you answer questions like; define the ideal role/set of responsibilities..
– Annie
Aww… that’s sweet of you to like me 🙂 that makes me feel so much better 🙂
Yes, I am being hopeful and thinking positive about it.. May be positive thoughts would multiply and get me a good news within 2 weeks.
Its friday and a beautiful sunny day.. I think ill distract myself by getting involved in social activities… I deserve to have fun..
You have a good weekend.. ronnie..Will keep everybody updated…
-Annie…
Oh Annie! I wish I had the answer, but there’s really no way for us to know. If it helps…I like you. 😉
Sounds at least hopeful since he didn’t cut you off right away and let you g0 on with your answers. Many phone screeners try to stay neutral. But it really is about the match. You did the best you could do…now let’s hope you make it to the next round. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you. Meanwhile…keep the job hunt going!
In the meantime, maybe this will help:
12 Ways to Stay Sane After a Job Interview
Best of luck, Annie.
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
I just finished my phone interview. And its very difficult for me to say how well it went. The interviewer was very neutral towards my answers.. But I felt I answered all the questions properly, precisely but at some points I elaborated more than I should. I am just hoping it dosent go against me…
He said, he will talk to his team and see the staffing needs and get back to me withing 2 weeks for the next round of interview… The job is of an entry level consultant…I am just hoping and praying that I get a call for next round of interview….
Being a phone interview..its so difficult to judge.. I am getting very nervous and anxious.. and over analyzing myself…pheww..And I just cant stop thinking about it… Ronnie what do you think about it? Is it positive? did he like me?
– Annie
Thank you!!!! I will keep you posted.
Hi again Mickey!
Just so you know, sometimes employers repost jobs just to see if they can indeed find someone with more of the exact experience they’re looking for, but it doesn’t mean their top candidates so far are out. Still, smart that you’re looking no matter what. Sometimes that’s when a nice surprise comes our way.
Good luck!
~ Ronnie Ann
Thanks all for your responses. I just noticed on Hot Jobs they posted the position yesterday so I am going to continue looking and sending out my resume.
To D, she was an older lady and we really hit it off well during the interview, I think if it was the opposite sex then I would have felt it to be creepy and would not have wanted the job.
When I interviewed I just felt a connection there so I just thought that I did a great job when usually I am a nervous wreck.
Hi Mickey!
I know how hard this is, but it sounds like you’ve done everything you can. And it also sounds like they have been quite responsive. Catherine and D offer some really good perspective. (Thanks team! 😉 )
And seriously…job offers take as long as they take. There are lots of behind-the-scenes things that have to be taken care of – and other work that has to get done – before the final decision is made. As maddening as it can be, patience is one our greatest job search assets – also a huge asset within the job!
You write “So I am going to give it until next Wednesday. I have been sending my resume out still just in case.” I get how you must be feeling, but to me, this sounds like you would like to take control of a process you aren’t in charge of (understandable when we are stuck in the very frustrating waiting game) – but by setting deadlines like this, the only one who it would hurt is you! 😉
If you read some of the comments before you, you’ll see how many people went through the frustration you’re going through – and many, despite a longer wait than they ever imagined, got the job. I’ve waited MONTHS!!! Your ability to wait this out and meanwhile occupy yourself with other things – including a continued job search – will also reflect the kind of experience/maturity they are probably looking for – whether you get the job or not.
It sounds like they like you and are still considering you, but if they have a more experienced candidate, with no reflection on you, they may go with him or her. If they do, it’s the perfect opportunity to keep your contacts warm, show how mature you are, and start building toward the possibility of the next job they have. Why cut off your own chances? Networking happens every minute in a job search. 😉
By respecting that there are things you can’t possibly know and trusting they are trying their best, you already jump ahead of a lot of your competition now and in the future – and believe me, it will show in how you handle yourself!
You must have done something very right, Mickey – now just give them the chance to see if they can make you fit even without the experience they were looking for. If not…it speaks highly that they kept you in even without it. If so…well, then you’ve found a great place to learn and grow.
Best of luck. Please keep us informed.
~ Ronnie Ann
Mickey, according to you, although they need to hire someone ASAP, the HR VP stated, “to be honest you do not have the HR experience we’re looking for not to say that you can’t do the job.”
Then, you “emailed the Director who hugged me stating I was still interested and where were they with the hiring. She emailed back and said it was good hearing from me and that she was going to pass on my email to the HR Manager.
You have not heard from them in two weeks, now, you think “it is disrespectful for an employer to hold out and not inform you of where they are. ”
Seriously, are you kidding me? Where is the disrespectful part in this interview process? Not contacting you to provide a play-by-play analysis of their process?
I know you want this job, however, this is the NORMAL interview process.
IMHO, the unprofessional part of the director’s interview, was the hug. Sounds kinda creepy and borders on sexual harassment. You should never be touched, unless requested, by someone inside or outside of the workplace.
You can continue to hope for this job.
However, here is the reality…continue searching/interviewing for other positions.
If you’re offered this particular position, take it. If not, at least you’re still interviewing.
Yes I sent a thank you email to all three people that interviewed me. I just think it is disrespectful for an employer to hold out and not inform you of where they are. When I interviewed they told me they needed someone as soon as possible because the lady that was in this position was leaving two weeks ago. So I am going to give it until next Wednesday. I have been sending my resume out still just in case.
I probably should add for everyone that one of the most important assets you can have are your professional references (as well as personal references). I always keep in touch with mine, and make sure they know what is going on with me, and that I am using them as a reference. Then I give them the opportunity to comment, or whatever.
Mickey, just a suggestion, but did you write a thank you card/letter to the Director after the interview? Sometimes it is another way to sell yourself after the initial interview, as to add how qualified you are, etc.
oops. Suggestion. misspell
I think Ronnie has talked about this before, but the biggest mistake job hunters make is to wait for an answer from a job. Had I waited to hear from some of the people I interviewed with, I would be holding my breath for a very long time. There’s nothing wrong with hoping for a job, but you might want to keep going on the interviews. I ended up with my current position, which pays $3.00 per hour more than I made at my last position, only because I kept going, even when I was getting frustrated. Hopefully, Ronnie has a suggesting on how long you should hold out for this one. It sounds like the HR Manager is the one doing the final hiring, and he/she isn’t in much of a hurry.
Thanks Catherine! I just wish they had said something yesterday when I emailed the Director but she did cc the HR Manager in the email when she responded to me.
How long do you think I should continue to hope for this job?
Who’s actually in charge of the decision to hire? When I interviewed, I thought it was interesting because I interviewed with two attorneys that I thought I would be working under. They said they would make a decision in about a week and asked me if I had any offers pending. I told them I did and told them with who. Right after I got home from the interview, they called me. Obviously, they were the ones making the decision, even though there were higher ups in the system who could make the final call. Find out who is making the final decision, and then maybe you will know more. Sometimes the best person for the job is not always the one with the most qualifications. It sounds like they may have grilled you to see if you are a good fit, and if you can pick up quickly. After I was hired, I was told by my attorneys that they felt I could “hit the ground running.” That’s what they wanted. I’m sure there were others who were more qualified, but I was the best fit for the job. Don’t be discouraged!
Hi All,
This is my first time posting here and decided to post my comment.
I went on an interview two weeks ago, the first 30 minutes I interviewed with the HR Manager and then the other 30 minutes was with the Director. As the interview ended with the Director, she got up and hugged me and stated that she will be in touch. She walked me to the door and said I will see you later.
Two days later, I got a call that they wanted me to take some tests which were on MS Outlook, Excel, and Powerpoint and then meet the HR VP.
I took the tests and then met the HR VP who drilled me with lots of questions. I then asked her a question related to my qualifications and she said “to be honest you do not have the HR experience we’re looking for not to say that you can’t do the job”. That blew me even though she was being honest. At the end of me telling her I was a quick learner and feel that I could do the job, she said they were still eying other candidates.
Now it has been two weeks since the 2nd interview, I emailed the Director who hugged me stating I was still interested and where were they with the hiring. She emailed back and said it was good hearing from me and that she was going to pass on my email to the HR Manager.
How shall I take this? Is this a good sign or a bad one? Please help!!!
Great!! Thanks for letting us know Michael. Everything remains crossed. 😉
Waiting for the good news…
~ Ronnie Ann
I must have passed the interview. The company is checking my previous employers and my references. They called me in today for my military release papers. I believe I am on the right track. Thanks for your support.
Hi Michael!
I join Catherine in wishing you all the best. Although nothing is for sure until that call comes, definitely good signs. Fingers, legs, and eyes crossed for you! 😉 And yes…please let us know.
GOOD LUCK!!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Michael, here’s to keeping my fingers crossed for you. I like all of the positive signs, such as a tour of the facility. grin.. Hopefully we will all get virtual invitations to your job “celebration!”
I did notice he did copy my body language. I crossed my leg he did the same. I had my hands in my lap he followed. I sat forward and he did the same. I wasn’t antsy or constantly moving though. He didn’t wake me my availability but that was on my resume. He also didn’t ask when I could start but that was also on my resume. I just don’t know.
I had an interview today. I am so hoping I get the call back because I really need the job. We did a lot of conversating on and off topic. I thought the interview was over but then he offered to take me on a tour of the facilities. He wasn’t saying what I maybe doing. He kept saying will. I feel confident but am unsure because I really need this job. I hope I get that call ASAP. Wish me luck please.
Hi Kate!
I can’t tell for sure if it’s good news, but it sounds hopeful and certainly is NOT bad news. 😉
Very few jobs tell you you’re hired right away. And in his case, he explained he has some things to figure out. Make sure you send him a short, pleasant note letting him know how much you enjoyed meeting him and just how interested you are in the job. And then, of course…wait.
Best of luck! Please let us know if you get the job. Hope so!!
~ Ronnie Ann
I am a 22 year old college student and I had an interview with a restaurant for a server position. He looked over my application, and asked me general questions. He asked me about my class schedule and how many shifts I wanted to work. It seemed like i knocked it out of the park, I was enthusiastic, gave great examples, smiled alot, and I have previous serving experience. At the end of the interview, he told me that he was trying to get a new class setup and he would call me back in about a week. I have been analyzing this over and over in my head, I guess I was just expecting him to give me an answer right then. Is this good news?
Sorry…I got behind in my comment answers. If anyone is still waiting for help, please try again. If you keep the question short, I’ll do my best to answer more quickly. 😉
And thank you Catherine so much for your kind heart.
Drew…she’s so right. I hope by now you may have heard something, but the worst thing we can do is focus on what may have gone wrong after an interview. Believe me…the interviewee is often the worst judge of how they did. And sometimes, even if you did well, it’s just about the fit as Catherine says. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you…and everyone else!
Best of luck. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Drew, I am keeping my fingers crossed for you. I didn’t realize until my first day of work today how well I “fit” in with the attorneys I’m working for. I think companies are now looking for the right “fit” and the experience, although important, seems secondary. Hang in there! If this isn’t the job, then the “right” one will come! Just don’t give up the faith.
I just had a phone interview today. I have a bad feeling all over and dont know how it went. The interview was talking a lot. And then he said i would hear back from on of the hr people in the next couple of days. I guess im just venting and being negative lol. To all the other people who got their call back, good for you!
I dont know if ill get that lucky 🙂
To Michi , LW and all others awaiting that wonderful phrase “you’re hired!”. We hold our breath with great anticipation for the job of your dreams. May it come quickly!
So. what happens to this board when we all have a job? LOL. next topic, I guess?
May all your dreams come true.
Thank you so much, Ronnie Ann! This website really brought me luck!
Wow! I’m SO happy for you! Looks like all the good luck rubbed off. Thank you for letting us know, Tomiko. This is great news.
Best of luck in the new job! (Aren’t those beautiful words?)
~ Ronnie Ann
Oh my god I just got a job offer!! It’s really great, I am happy and relieved! Of course I still have to get the paper contract and they will be checking my references now, but I really hope I’ll get the job! Thanks so much for all your support!
I love my readers!
Tomiko – and everyone else – we’re all rooting for you. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Jason, I KNEW you would do it! NOW. We need Tomiko to get good news!
Way to go, Jason!!! Congrats on your new job.
Wuhoo! Congratulations, Jason. May your good luck be contagious. 😉
Very happy for you. I wish you all the best. And thank you so much for letting us know. It helps gives other folks hope – and makes my day!
~ Ronnie Ann
Got the call just a few minutes ago. I got the job!!! The company is mailing me an official job offer letter and benefits package. They want me to start on May 17th. 🙂
Still waiting for the (hopefully) final phone call saying the job is officially mine. Waiting stinks but I know patience goes a long way.
So happy to read this, Jason. Crossing fingers, legs and eyes for you. I’m sure we all are. This is really great.
And may I point out to everyone else, there has been a spurt of good luck here lately. May each and every one of my readers get a piece of that luck for themselves! 😉
Can’t wait to read the official good news, Jason! Thanks for keeping us posted.
~ Ronnie Ann
Well, I got a call from the consulting firm tonight saying he thinks the job is 80-90% mine. Right now they are working on what my salary would be. He says they can’t get a firm offer until the salary is set. At first they were going to give me the low end of the salary they had discussed with me. Since my last job paid right in the middle of that scale I asked if they would meet me in the middle (meaning I’d only be off by about 2500 a year). He said he didn’t see why they wouldn’t do that and he would try for as much as they could. He called me back a couple of hours later and told me they would definitely be giving me more, but they were working on the manager approval. Again he can’t officially offer me the job until that is settled. I’m still not getting my hopes completely up as I’ve had a near job offer pulled before due to the position being put on hold. I don’t see that happening at this company as I am replacing someone they promoted. I was told I would know either tonight or tomorrow. I know it will be tomorrow though.
Jason! Keep your hopes up! A second interview is a good one. let us know!
I’m patiently waiting for either feedback and/or a job offer from a job I just did a 2nd interview for yesterday. It’s going through a consulting firm but the position for the company they are representing is permanent. I’m trying not to get my hopes up about it as I’ve been through this before where I was told I was a great fit, nearly had the offer, just to be told they had to put it on hold. I don’t think this company would do that on this position as it’s replacing a guy who was promoted to another position. Based on body language and facial expressions I feel I did very well yesterday. I met with who would be my counterpart on the corporate side (I would be doing the field side of support for IT), then the IT Director, then the CFO. The IT Director told me during his part of the interview that my resume is exactly what they are looking for. They all kept talking like I was already part of the company (I’d be asking you to do this… You would take care of this… The field guys would be asking for your help…) I know the 2nd interview was to gauge how well I would fit in the company. Everyone was asking about what I like to do outside the office, where I grew up, etc. Again I’m trying not to read too much into this. I was told by the consulting company that the other candidate had to reschedule their 2nd interview for either today or tomorrow, which I was told actually makes me look like the better candidate. I REALLY want this job as unemployment while it helps was no where near my old salary, we have no insurance, and I have a wife and daughter to take care of. The company is a very prestigious company in their industry and the benefits and salary would be awesome.
Tomiko, everything will work out for you.
Thanks Catherine!
I just saw your response. We were answering at the same time. Well said!
Just one thing…no matter what your experience was (there are always exceptions)…please readers…don’t keep calling or e-mailing! It drives employers crazy.
After an Interview: Can Weekly Follow Up Calls and Emails Help Get You the Job?
~ Ronnie Ann
Tomiko…with all my heart I feel your pain. I know how hard this is. But there comes a point in the interview process where we should focus on other things (see articles I pointed you to above) and not add to our own misery!
Please read the title of this article again and my first line. They are not doing anything to you! This is the normal interview process – and you’re lucky to have such nice feedback – many get NO feedback. But you’re right…it guarantees nothing.
Trying to read into everything and anything at this point will only drive you bonkers! I once had to wait 3-4 months to hear back – with nothing more than a polite response to my thank you note in between. But fear not…I’m sure you will know sooner. Still…as frustrating as this feels, it often takes more time than we would want it to. (Read some of the other comments on this article and others to see you are not alone.)
It sounds like you did well. Now, since you’ve sent your thank you notes, there is nothing to do but wait. Really. But in the meantime, PLEASE keep busy and keep applying elsewhere.
Uh…no hidden message in that. 🙂 It’s what I tell everyone because it’s just a good strategy. And now, find something else to focus on like a new hobby or volunteering. And we will all keep our fingers crossed for you.
And every time you catch yourself thinking about how you did, redirect your thoughts to something nice or go do something you enjoy or call a friend and ask about THEM to get your mind off of it for a while. Thinking about it incessantly won’t help – and it makes the whole process much more painful. Really. 😉
Good luck. Please let us know what happens.
~ Ronnie Ann
Tomiko, those all sound like positive feedback. As far as rejection? I was not picked for one job because someone had a better “fit” than me. What the Administrator did do, was to distribute my resume to a friend of hers at another law firm, and as a result, I was hired. Don’t take them as “rejections.” I didn’t think of them as such. It just means that they thought someone else was a better fit within their company. The firm I am working for also told me that they would make a decision in a week, and they called me before I even got home from the second interview! it doesn’t hurt for you to call them and ask them the status and tell them you are still interested. I once got a job because the hiring manager said they would hire me if I quit calling them all the time. They said I was persistent, and they hired me! While I wouldn’t recommend that to anyone, I would recommend that you call the prospective employer back to check on the status. Anyone else agree with this or do you have another opinion?
Dear Ronnie Ann and Catherine!
thank you so much for your support and advice. My question now is: is it common for those who interview to respond to a thank-you letter? I wrote to both people who interviewed me and both have got back to me. One said that I did well and they will be in touch shortly, the other said that it was a pleasure to have me at the interview and that they will be in touch next week. I am being really paranoid I guess and trying to find some hidden meaning everywhere – I am more than sure that it’s just a formality and they are simply being nice to me and that it doesn’t mean anything… But still, they are getting my hopes up!! I know that after such replies it will be even harder to get a rejection… What do you think? thank you!
Oh Catherine! Congratulations. I love the way your story turned out. You’re own office? As a consultant, I haven’t had one of those in ages!
So happy for you. Sometimes we just have to watch the movie all the way to the end to know which suitor to root for. 😉 I wish you all the best.
And thank you so much for the great advice and support you gave to Tomiko. Catherine’s right Tomiko – employers expect nerves. The main thing is, you did your best. If you are a good match – and I hope you are – they will see it. Please let us know how it goes. Oh…and if you still need help calming those nerves, maybe one of these posts will help. (Look for Topic #3):
Waiting to Hear Back After the Job Interview
I wish you both MUCH luck. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Just an update! I ended up calling the second job, and they have great benefits, plus my own office, plus a salary $12,000 more per year than the federal govt. was willing to pay. i wanted the govt. job, but things have a way of working out. Good luck to all of you, and I believe the economy is picking up, which is good news for all of us!
Tomiko, employers know when you are nervous. Only multiple interviews can prepare you for the next interview. I learned that after so many interviews, I was a little calmer and more self-confident. I went to a second interview this week, and I left knowing I did my best. They told me they would make a final decision in a week. Just as I got home, I received a phone call (message phone) letting me know I did a great job interviewing and they wanted to offer me a job. I ended up accepting the position, which turned out to be $4.00 more per hour than my last position, and my own office! I knew I did my best, and I was answering their questions with a lot of “um’s”, which is a pet peeve of mine, because I hate to seem like I don’t know what I’m talking about. I have heard more companies saying they are looking for the “perfect fit”. I think these days with employers getting choosey about hiring, they want someone that is going to stay and be a part of the company, so the perfect “fit” will go to that person the company decides will “fit” into their scheme.
Some things you can look for is…1. Are they leaning in toward you? 2. Are they nodding their heads when you answer a question? 3. Are they folding their hands in their laps or are their hands open (receptive) to you? 4. Do they talk as if you would be working there (i.e. when you work here, you will see….) I think that anyone looking for work and interviewing would do well to look up body postures. It can be very helpful to look at how someone reacts to you.
It doesn’t sound like the interview went bad…keep it up and you will find your “perfect fit”.
Hello!
I had a job interview at a terrific company today – I had been preparing for it for weeks and thought I was completely ready. But as I went in, I knew I was way too nervous and talking too much. I don’t think the interview went well as in the end the interviewer said something like: “Regardless of the outcome, please keep in touch, people who come this far always do great, if nit here than elsewhere” blah blah blah. So I don’t think that’s a good sign. After that he did ask me if everything was ok with my working permit (I am a foreigner) and I said yes – so I guess this showed some interest but who knows… I wrote thank-you notes to all the people who interviewed me and one of them got back, saying that I did well and will hear back shortly… Don’t know if that means much. I am so stressed I can’t describe it!!
Ronnie Ann-Just an update on my job search! I was offered a contingency position with the Federal Govt., just awaiting the HQ approval for the hiring. I was told to think about the hours I wanted to work, and when I could start. I had a second interview today, and no sooner did I get home, then I received a voicemail message from the Office Manager to call her when I could. I have not called yet, but I believe the interview went well and they are calling to hire me. The best stress to be under is the stress of which job you are going to pick. I did it, and I know those of you out there that are looking for jobs will get one too. Don’t give up hope, and have faith! I have not called the second job yet, because I am trying to get a FINAL answer from the Feds, as that is where I want to work. PLEASE DON’T GIVE UP HOPE!
Hi Michi Quinn! Sorry you’re going through this. I know how hard it must be for you. This is a good example where having more information not only doesn’t help, but it makes things more confusing. I’ve seen so many examples where internal policies or someone involved throws extra candidates into the loop – or extra confusion. But in the end, the best candidate usually gets the job. I hope it’s you. I also hope you are spending your energy on looking elsewhere rather than trying to figure this out. Sometimes no one can – until the decision is made. 😉
Oh Catherine Earl! I want to give you a giant hug You’ve really been in this for the long haul and I know it hasn’t been easy…and still you take the time and effort to help others. There was recently a story about a man who was unemployed and decided to give away money every day anyway (of course, not everyone can afford this): Philanthropy on $10 a Day
But the real importance of this is where we focus our energy and time while waiting. Congrats on being so generous and on finding and sharing this interim source of money. And I will keep my fingers, legs, and eyes crossed for you in hope that an even better job comes along soon!
~ Ronnie Ann
LW, how is the job hunting going? Don’t be too discouraged. I am waiting for three answers from three different companies. I guess RonnieAnn is right..It is a matter of chemistry between you and the prospective employer. I have a work-at-home job starting in May. It is legitimate people, for those who live in utah or new mexico. Called SITEL. Look them up! The pay is only $9.00 per hour plus bonuses to start, but it is strictly customer service, and I get paid hourly from them, along with benefits. NO COLD CALLING! You make hotel reservations. So…it may do for some of you in a pinch…for now….Other than that, I loved the piece on whether or not the interview went well…I have thought about the last couple, and although my interview was 45 minutes, when a company waits too long for the next person to interview, then I think I have lost my standing with the potential employer, and they won’t think about me. Out of Sight, Out of Mind. Anyway, good luck to all of you out there interviewing, and I mean this from my heart.
Hello,
I just came upon this blog while searching for some help on job interview issues. This is a very interesting blog! I am wondering if anyone can give insight on my situation..which is as follows..
I interviewed for an internal vacancy at my company. It was posted company wide, however due to the geographic location, there were 3 candidates. Myself, a person with about 25% of the qualifications needed, and another person wtih about 50% of the qualifications needed. Originally there were just 2 candidates. Me and the 25% guy. I had my interview on March 16 which I thought went well. I obviously had everything they are looking for. When I interviewed, the hiring manager told me they still had a few more candidates to interview and they’d let me know by the end of the next week, as the person vacating the position would be leaving, and they could not have it vacant for long, as it would cause a hardship on the rest of the department. The person has been gone since April 5 now.
The next day, (March 17) the job was re-posted for internal applicants. My manager contacted the hiring manager to kind of follow up. She was told that due to the fact there was such a small candidate pool, that the job had to be re posted but they liked me very much. I guess candidate number 3, the 50% guy must have applied then and interviewed on March 31. ( I know a person in the department that’s been pretty right on with giving me inside info, but they have no sway in the hiring decision). I had no less than 6 stellar recommendations from other managers I have worked for. I know the position has not been filled, but I have not been contacted either way. I wrote a thank you email to the hiring manager as well as the otehrs on the panel that interviewed me, I actually did it the following day.
I am wondering what the heck is going on? There is no way the position will be kept vacant, as the department staffing level counting the vacant position as “filled” is at the bare minimum per company regulation. I don’t think they’d hire someone with much less qualifications than me. Money is not talked about, as the salary/raise is a company standard. My only obstacle I can think of, is the manager of the hiring manager is someone that I worked 2 levels under, but for some reason this person who never spoke more than a paragraph to me in his life, found fault with everything I did within my department. He has since moved on and it just so happens is the manager of the hiring manager who interviewed me.
My current manager contacted the hiring manager again last week on the premise that she knew I was the top candidate and wanted to know if my job would need to be posted soon, as it is a very specialized position. She also has not gotten a reply.
Really appreciate that you took the time to support LW, Catherine. Often advice and kindness from readers is as valuable or more valuable than that what we career “experts” have to say. You’re the ones going through this and knowing what it really feels like at this very moment. (Although I assure you I’ve had my share of hair-pulling frustration in both workplace and job search. 😉 )
And you’re so right about the economy, Catherine. I’ve seen it again and again where folks get turn-down after turn-down and then for no apparent reason (or no difference they can see) suddenly the next job is a yes.
Here’s a post that might help some of you maximize your chances:
Job Search Tips: 7 Ways to Rev Up Your Recession Job Search
Other than that…I wish you all much luck!! Meanwhile, I’m glad we’re here to support each other. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
LW, keep up your hopes. I too am a degreed professional. For every paralegal position, there are at least 5 people, many having similar backgrounds and experience. I too left my position because we moved. I was able to work temp for a 2 week stint, but nothing since 10/29/10. I have been getting interviews, and felt good about those interviews, but so far, no luck. Don’t lose hope. Its just a really, really bad economy.
Oh LW!! I’m so sorry. I totally get why you did what you did and why you feel the way you do. Each person has to make a choice that feels good to them – and their dignity. 😉
Glad you mentioned that you’d love to hear from them if it does open up. Smart. I believe in keeping all doors open and contacts warm. Dignity is inside. And budget crunches are real. But freezes can lift at any time. I’ve had them happen both as an interviewer and interviewee, and showing flexibility under uncontrollable situations (I never controlled a freeze that affected my hiring someone) is a quality employers look for.
So to keep the contact warm, in another month or two you might send a lovely note again saying you’re sorry the freeze happened and would still love to work there when it opens up. These contacts never hurt and even unfulfilled interviews (if you win people over to your side) can lead to unexpected results.
Keep the search fires going strong, LW! Sometimes the next one is the right one. Then again…this job is still a good possibility. Don’t count it out.
Best of luck!
~ Ronnie Ann
Glad that I take even the most positive signs to be, let’s see, VAPOR.
The night before my “meet the team” interview I received a call from the person I had interviewed with before and would ostensibly be working for. She told me “well, I have some bad news for you. I found out today that we’re having a hiring freeze so the job is on hold. It may be open again in six weeks, if at all. Do you still want to come in for the next interview?”
No, I don’t. I told her “thank you, but no.” If the position does come open again then please give me a call. I think I’ll keep my unemployed dignity intact.
Good thing I didn’t go buy a new interview outfit – I was just about to but something made me stop in my tracks. I do feel bad that I told my family and friends about the position. They all, to a one, thought the job was mine. All the “sucessful” interviews with good followup, the employer calling me and offering a certain dollar amount, the good background check. Poof – vapor.
Now I have to backtrack & tell all of them that I’m “out of luck” once again. I know it is not personal but after a while it surely feels personal.
Here’s an interesting update (interesting to me, anyway).
I commented a couple weeks ago, feeling bad about great interviews that didn’t lead to offers. Well, last night I heard from the second set of interviews I wrote about. They apologized about how long it took to get back to me. I was asked if I’m still interested (yep) and would I accept $$ per hour (a little less than I used to make but still pretty decent – again, yep).
I was invited to come in next week and meet the team. I wasn’t told if this is a job offer or another interview! My family and friends think that once the prospective employer talks money then an offer is surely upcoming. I’ll tell y’all that I take NOTHING for granted in this market.
I’ll post after I “meet the team.”
Good luck and wishes to all who post here!
Oh Jay…I love your decision! I try hard to be open to all points of view and to NOT tell people what to do, but this is exactly what I would have done.
I wish you all the best!!! I know you’ll do great.
Oh…and thanks about the post and the good wishes. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Hello Ronnie Ann and everyone else who might read this 🙂
Just an update: After talking to a few people including Ronnie Ann, I decided to go with company A. I explained to B about my situation, and they took it really well, even told me that they’ll keep the door open for future.
I’m starting the new job next Tuesday! I’m excited, yet very nervous. I haven’t worked for more than 9 months now. But everytime I just remind myself: I just have to do my best. I did well in the past, so this time it won’t be any different.
I’m wishing everyone good luck in their jobsearch. And to Ronnie Ann, a very special good luck with whatever and wherever you ended up doing and living. I enjoyed your latest post about the snow day!!
Jay
Hi Jay!
First…congratulations on being wanted by two companies. An enviable dilemma. Wuhoo!!
Now for my answer…unfortunately I can’t fully judge the ethical nature without knowing every detail. In this particular case, timing is so important. But more important…if you string company A along for too long and then let them down…how would you feel? Could you live with yourself? Would you hurt yourself in the industry?
Is B strongly your number one choice? If so, I’d still want to be honest with company A as soon as possible and see what they say. They may even up their offer. But since you don’t have a firm offer yet from B, it really depends on how long it will take company B to give you their answer. Can you speak with B and explain the situation? (I had to do that once.) If they gave you an offer within the next few days, then I think being honest with A at that point if you really want B is not unknown in business.
On the other hand, does company A have something to offer you that goes beyond money? Sometimes less money now leads to more opportunity later. So many factors that go into the decision.
Stringing A along and then turning them down a couple of weeks from now might feel ethically-challenged to some and just part of business for others. But since you asked in the first place, I have a feeling you will do your best to be as ethical as possible – while of course still protecting your interests as best you can. I wish there were a simple answer, but I have faith you’ll find your own answer. 😉
If it helps, I’ve worked places where people actually started and then rescinded. It sucks, but we dealt with it – and when the salary was much higher, we totally understood. Still…if A comes to you after the background check (which they probably paid for) and makes you a final offer…at least at that point it would be great if you were able to let them know where you stand and treat them fairly. This stuff can live on beyond the present.
Just my take on things. Obviously it is up to you and plenty of people would simply wait it out until they knew for sure all around. But personally…I’d want to make sure I treated company A fairly.
Good luck picking the option that feels best for you. Please let us know what happens!
~ Ronnie Ann
Thank you so much, Ronny Ann!
So I went to an interview w/ the company (B) that almost offered me a job a few weeks ago. They went with another candidate for that job, but they still wanted to hire me for a different position. It looks like they’re gonna offer me the job now, and the pay is much higher than the one from the other company (A).
Also in terms of the company future and benefits, company B is definitely better than company A.
Now here’s my question:
I did verbally accepted the offer from company A. Would it be unethical for me to now bail? The offer is pending on background check, so I assumed if they are not satisfied with the results, they will rescind the offer.
Would appreciate your help to answer this. I really don’t know what to do.
Thank you so much, Ronny Ann!
Jay
Oh Jay…I’m so happy for you!!
Please don’t tell anyone 😉 I snuck in to congratulate you since I might have to delay other responses until Monday. But I’m so proud of you and think you’re still making all the right moves. No harm in waiting until you have the final “it’s a done deal” offer as long as you don’t lead the other companies on by making them think they are your only one!
I feel pretty sure this is a done deal, but please let us know anyway. Oh…and congrats on negotiating the salary you wanted. I’ve always found that technique useful, especially if you are open to however it turns out.
~ Ronnie Ann
Ronny Ann,
An update: I got the salary I asked for!
I followed what you suggested before, about salary negotiation. So when the internal recruiter told me how much they were offering me, which was the highest one in their budget, I said: I definitely appreciate that. And I know I want this job and work for your company. But I’d be really happy if you could get me $XX. She called back 30 minutes later, and said they are willing to meet that amount!
I got the offer letter yesterday, pending background and reference checks. In normal market, I would now sit back and relax, but since I came very close a few times to getting offers, now i’m more cautious. I had a phone interview with another company this a.m, and meeting with another company for a final interview next week.
I’m not sure if I am being overcautious though. But I just wanted to make sure that this is a done deal before I stopped searching.
Jay
Hi Ronny Ann,
Just checking in to report that I just got that CALL!
They offered me the job that I interviewed for 2 weeks ago. I’m negotiating salary now. They offered me the highest they could go with, but it’s still lower than my second last job, so I’m asking them to match that one (my last one was even higher, but I’m in peace with not getting that much). This is a great company, great benefits, and from what I can see and read, GREAT PEOPLE to work with, that is really important to me.
Commute will be a bit long from my new place, but I can take the train. So I’m all excited. I also have 3 other (2 temp to hire and one permanent) jobs pending at this point.
So I guess I started seeing all these results after 9 months of searching. I think, most importantly, when I was ready to let go of all the bitterness and regrets from the last two jobs. I left a very good job for an offer that looked much better than reality. Left that one after 3 weeks, and got another job a month later, which turned out to be a disaster at the end. I was there for 6 months and got laid off. So I dwelled in regrets for leaving the first company, until I finally was ready to let go a few months ago.
I am very happy and relieved right now. And I’d like to thank you for all your emotional support – directly and just by reading your posts. I’m wishing everyone all the best. Just keep doing your best, I’m sure it will finally happen, probably sooner than you expect!
Jay
Oh Jennie! I am so happy to hear from you again – especially with such good news. Wuhoo!!!
And thank you very much for sharing your experience with all of us – with a special thanks for the way you explained what you did differently. Excellent advice for anyone.
Employers just want to see who you really are because they are looking to see who they have to deal with on a daily basis. Most people, if they can just bring their full selves to the interview table and have a conversation rather than go into “scary interview mode”, will have a leg up on other candidates. The rest is about the fit of course.
Love good news, Jennie. Thanks for sharing it with us. And best of luck in YOUR NEW JOB! 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi LW!
I am so grateful you shared this with us since sometimes there is absolutely nothing wrong. Sometimes it just takes time and the “right” chemistry that no one could put into an automated, homogenized, depersonalized formula.
I’m also grateful you aren’t asking me to figure this out, because I can’t. You sound great. There might be some things that could possibly maybe kinda increase your chances…but from the e-mails and comments I get, sometimes after what seems like an interminable amount of time, the right one just happens. I wish that for you with all my heart.
And I am so glad Jennie posted right after you to offer extra hope. I’ve gotten a few other “I got the job” comments/e-mails lately, so hoping it’s a trend for my readers. 😉
If you haven’t read this post yet, it might make you feel a little better. Good news is after an awful, ridiculous, maddening job search process…he got the job!
Please know we’re rooting for you and please let us know what happens. Thanks again for helping others know they are not alone.
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Not sure if you remember me but I posted here back in November. I had applied for a job but was not sucessful.
I just wanted to post a little update. I applied for another job, had my interview on Thursday and found out today that I got the job!!!
I am thrilled! It’s an internal job at the same company I current work at but it’s a higher position with a lot more responsibility. The pay starts at the same wage I am at now but there is room for raises, whereas in my current job, I am at the cap.
I have to thank you for the site, I believe the tips here helped a lot. Plus, I know what was different this time around – my confidence. Last time, I went in extremely nervous and unsure. This interview, I left all those feelings at the door, walked in with confidence and instead of it being a question & answer interview, it turned to a conversation. That was the point where the light turned on and I realized what I had done wrong last time. Most people (in my line of business at least) don’t want to hire someone who can come up with good rehersed answers to the typical questions – they want someone who is easy to get along with, a good speaker and confident.
Thanks!!!
I’m getting very down. After having many job interviews that went extremely well and getting the “sorry, charlie” letter or being ignored for months I just don’t know what to think. I went for a job where I aced both interviews but was told, first via voice mail, then a paper letter, that I didn’t qualify. The wording was I didn’t meet their “standards.”
Another position – I had two interviews that were very positive and a call that they were doing my background check. Then, they told me they’d call me Friday. That was five weeks ago. I checked their website and the position hasn’t been filled.
What is wrong with me? I wasn’t laid off from my last job – I had to leave it because we moved. I have great credit, a college degree, good interview clothes, many good references and a lot of experience in my field. My previous bosses gave me letters of recommendation.
I don’t have any kind of problems with the law (a minor speeding ticked five years ago), no enemies, nothing in my past that would raise a red flag.
When I applied for my previous job (ten years ago) I could talk to a real human being in HR and was keep informed throughout the process. Now? I’m just a number. Another pesky email.
I know that no one has an answer for me. I really like reading this blog and I just hope that others might feel better if they know someone else is struggling, too.
Oh Jay…you’ve moved from how to stay sane in the interview process poster person to role model. “I did my best, and it’s not in my control…” I wish everyone could feel that way while still continuing to forge ahead as you are so wisely doing. Sorry that there is another strong competitor or two, but you know who I’m rooting for!
I am delighted to add my good wishes to your job quest. And if you will forgive me for being kind of hokey, there’s anotehr post where people used to ask me for pixie dust and in many casees it “worked”. And so…I’m sending a bit o’ magic dust your way:
~*~*~*~*~*~*
Best of luck Jay!!! If I crossed anything else, I would be a pretzel. 😉 And of course, we’re waiting to get the good news when it comes.
~ Ronnie Ann
So I thought I was gonna write you back with good news today. Unfortunately that’s not the case just yet. Didn’t hear anything from the HR lady who said she was gonna call me, so at 4.30pm, I called her. Apparently I reached her on her mobile and she was driving with really loud background noise. But she said she was happy that I called. Basically from what I could make out of what she said was that the Hiring Manager now got to the point where she loves everyone – that means 2 or 3 candidates including me. So they will have to review all the candidates to see who fits best for this position. And they’ll have an out of town meeting from Monday – Wednesday, so the earliest they could discuss this is on Thursday. That will mean either I hear back late next week, or even the week after.
I was a bit disappointed since I looked forward to celebrating this weekend. But I wasn’t devastated. My consolation if I ended up not getting the job is that location is really far from where I’m going to live. I am willing to do that, but again if I don’t get the job, probably there’s a better one in better location.
Plus, there wasn’t a single thing I would change from the way I interviewed. I knew I did my best, and it’s not in my control that there are so many great candidates out there right now.
I had a great interview yesterday with another company. Lower position and lower pay, but it’s a great company. I’m sure I’ll get a second round for this one sometime next week when the HM is back in town. So I’ll focus on that one while searching for more openings.
Please wish me luck, Ronny Ann!
Jay
Hi Jay!
This is GREAT news. I have everything crossed for you. 😉
If the offer is a good one, then you have to trust your gut as to whether it’s good enough. But your best time to negotiate is right up front, so if the offer is below what you really want, you can always say how excited you are about working with them and then just add something like “I would just feel a little more comfortable if the salary were $XXXXXX.” And then stop talking and see how the other person reacts. If they mention the application – and often it goes unnoticed, just pro forma – then pleasantly explain you realized later you had filled that in a bit too low. If they are adamant and you don’t want to try pushing it, then negotiations end. But if they say they aren’t sure they can do that, just smile politely and ask if they can come closer to the number you gave.
Now this is only a suggested approach. I’m sure you can adapt it to your situation. Each one is of course different.
I wish you all the luck, Jay! You’re doing great. PLEASE keep us informed.
~ Ronnie Ann
Thank you, Ronnie Ann, your good luck charm worked like a charm! 🙂
So the interview went really well yesterday. I met with the hiring manager, a very nice, intelligent lady. Also met with the person who is currently working temporarily for the position that I am applying for.
Per my own advice, I did my best in those two interview, and didn’t regret a thing when I was done. I went home, felt all good about myself and how it went, and could totally picture myself working there.
I got a call this morning from the internal recruiter, telling me how interested the hiring manager is in me, and how she thinks I am the right candidate. The recruiter wanted to see if I have any question or concern at this point, and to see if I am still interested in the job.
She did mention that the hiring manager still needs to meet with 2 other candidates this week, but I am definitely a very likely candidate, so she wanted to give me a heads up.
But also just realized, I put the wrong amount of salary expectation in my application, which was lower than I expected. This was because the question was based on an hourly rate, and I normally think of my salary as an annual rate. I wonder how this is going to impact the offer. But in the initial interview, I did tell the recruiter how much I made in my previous job.
Hopefully this will work out still. One of the reasons I was interested in this job was because they’re willing to pay my salary, along with other great benefits, and the reputation of the company which is really great.
What should I do Ronnie Ann, should I just take this offer, or try to renegotiate without sounding as if I changed my mine because (assuming) I got the offer? I could show her my W2 that stated my salary.
Would appreciate your advice.
Thank you,
Jay
I love this Jay! You are the poster person for how to manage the interview process and stay sane. Maybe one day you will do a guest post to help others – after you get the offer, of course. 😉
Fingers, legs, and eyes all crossed for you! Please do let us know how it goes.
~ Ronnie Ann
Thank you so much, Ronny Ann! So I did get that call for a second interview, which is scheduled for tomorrow.
I checked the online reviews about the company, especially that division, and found many great reviews from its current and former employees. I have really good feelings about this, and have to say this is the first time in many interviews I had that I’m feeling that connection. But at the same time, I’m preparing myself if somehow this is still not the right one.
I have two other interviews lined up for this week as well. So that’s a nice distraction from this one that I’m hoping to get.
I’ll keep you posted on how things going. I’m looking forward to giving you that good news – I know I get really encouraged when I hear good news from other people as well.
Thanks again,
Jay
Hi Jay!
Nicely said. I especially like the way you explained the dating analogy, even to the point of sometimes feeling tongue-tied about something you know so well. So true about interviews even for those who have interviewed a ton. Also like that you’ve found the secret of doing your best, letting it go, and then moving on – no sense sitting helplessly in limbo when you could be taking action to move your own chances forward.
I just wrote something that helps give even more of an inside picture of what goes on and why a totally qualified and wonderful person might not get the job no matter how well they interviewed. Hope this helps someone:
How Do You Interview If Your Interviewer Doesn’t Know as Much as You Do?
As for you Jay…you seem to have a great perspective on all this. Keeping my fingers crossed for you that this job comes through soon. And if for some reason it’s not the right one for you, I have a feeling the right one is just around the corner. 😉
Best of luck!
~ Ronnie Ann
Oh, the only other thing I’d like to add is that now I go to interviews and do my best, and let it go. I don’t dwell on why I answered this instead of that, etc.
The first few months I started my job search, I was busy analyzing post-interviews. The fact of the matter is, like everyone has been saying, it really is like going on dates. You could appear as best as you could, but your date probably is not the right one for you. So even if you’re very articulate etc., you could find yourself not even able to express why you’re like the food you’re eating, etc.
Anyway, just my 0.2 cents.
Hi Ronny-Ann,
I liked Matthew’s suggestion that says: This is not my last chance/opportunity, there are still employers out there looking for a great candidate like me!
It definitely helped with the last interview I had almost a week ago. I met with two people, the first one was great, and the q/a was flowing naturally and we actually went over with the schedule. The second interviewer was really quiet, and as much as I tried not to initiate all conversation, I felt that I had to, since a few times it was just silence in the room. I stumbled with my words/phrases a few times as well. However – here’s a funny thing – I could sense that the guy liked me! This was made clear when I asked him if he had any concern/question whether or not I’m a good fit for the position. He said, no, he thinks I’m well qualified and fit for the job.
So I sent out a thank you note to both interviewers, got a nice response back from the second interviewer. Nothing from the first one, but since this is normal, I feel ok as well.
I’m not putting too much hope to get on the second round of interview, but at the same time, I’m hopeful and excited if they call me again.
I’ve been searching for 8 months now, so I experienced all kinds of results. One time they checked my (glowing) references only to get back to me and said the job no longer exists. So I guess by now, I’m prepared for anything.
Hi Naomi!
Please excuse my delay in responding. I like to take some time off during the holidays. Hope this is the same reason you haven’t heard from them yet. Holidays can most definitely be a factor. No way to know of course, but nothing you wrote me tells me you are out of the running.
If you haven’t heard by the end of this week (when most people who have been away return), it would be ok to call on Monday or Tuesday of the following week. She mentioned a possible trial, so just in case says she isn’t interested (and I hope she is), try politely suggesting a one-day trial even if it’s for free. Sometimes that’s enough to get your foot in the door. 😉
BTW…you didn’t mention a thank you note, but if you haven’t sent it yet, please do so ASAP.
Best of luck, Naomi!
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
(This is a great site by the way. I’ve been to many interviews, and have gotten close, but I still have not been hired, so these were great tips!)
Decemeber 18th, I had an interview in a dental office. I came a bit early, so I had to wait a couple of minutes. A receptionist there took my photo, and said it was so they could put my name to a face.
A couple of minutes later I started my interview. It was the Doctor’s wife who interviewed me. I would say it went well She asked me about my past work experiences and where I saw myself in 5 years. Typical questions. We even found that she knew of the previous company I worked for so we had a good laugh at that.
I met the Dentists, and had a few words with him, she showed me around the office, and had me meet some of the staff, and things of that nature. I would say it lasted 20-30 minutes, and then she told me she would contact me, and let me know if she wanted me to try me out for a day before she made a final decision.
It has been a little over a week since the interview and I have not been contacted yet, does this mean that they are not interested? I know Christmas just passed, so is that a factor?
Thank you for sharing all of that Matthew! I know it helps others to read what real live job seekers are going through and the advice they have to share. 😉 Nice suggestions!
I wish you all the best, Matthew. You know I have fingers, legs and eyes crossed for you!
~ Ronnie Ann
Why, thank you, Ronnie Ann!
Feel free to use my comments in any way that will help others.
The hardest thing is to realize that this will not be a job seekers “last chance”- there are other employers out there who need talented and well rounded workers. But it is very easy (believe me, I know!) to get trapped in the cycle of “this is THE ONE- make it good, you might not get another chance for a long time, if ever!” I had to train myself to think that “this is one of many opportunities I will have- so calm down!”
In fact, no matter how well or lousy I think I did on an interview (including the above ), I save all the contact info on the computer, send off thank you emails, and promptly look for the next opportunity. I make the assumption I will NEVER speak with the company ever again. But having saved their names and companies, I can pull up the info and have a good discussion, without fumbling around if they do make contact.
This seems to work well for me, especially after having a really crazy and rocky start to my employment search. I was constantly frustrated and disappointed, but much less so now.
Best,
Matthew
Oh Matthew! This is great news. Thank you so much for sharing this with me and my readers. In fact, if I may I’d like to turn your comment into a post sometime. It hits at the heart of why really good people sometimes don’t make it to an offer.
Best of luck. What a great holiday present this would be! 😉 Please let us know how this wonderful story turns out.
~ Ronnie Ann