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
Thanks, Ronnie Ann. I appreciate the feedback.
I did already do a “mock” interview with a friend, and he agreed that I came off a bit too “businesslike” for my profession. So I sat down and thought about WHY I like the field and the work I do. I have usually worked with “difficult” populations (the interview above was for a position in a prison setting). I thought that I might try to interject more appropriate humor (which is in my nature) if the opportunity arose to do so. I realized that the biggest issue for me right now is that I am STRESSED about the lack of a job- and that was coming through loud and clear in the interview(s). Since I am always looking and applying, I took the perspective of “this will not be the “last ” interview I ever have, so “relax already”!
I learned from the mistakes of the above interview, I think. I boned up on some of the technical questions (diagnosing, etc…) and really thought about different answers to some common questions.
Well, out of the blue, an employer from out of state called, and actually went out of their way to get me two telephone interviews. So I just relaxed, found an opportunity for humor, enjoyed myself during the interviews, and was told after the last one that I am their “top candidate” right now.
To sum up: I like my field, but due to the stress of lack of money, no job, etc…I had become a grade A sourpuss! At least I can see that, and now can work on getting back to a more balanced perspective.
I will let you know how the last interview turns out. I have another question regarding salary negotiations that begin BEFORE the interview, but will find the best place to post that question on here.
Best,
Matthew
Hi Matthew!
Sorry you’re not getting to the “yes”. I have to say when I read the words “interviewers looked a little appalled” I must conclude that tells me you most assuredly are not hitting the right interview notes. 😉
You don’t have to lie about your work habits to come off more likable in an interview. BTW…”bang for the buck” is probably not the most useful social worker language – nor in fact probably anything you should say in an interview any more.
I suggest doing some practice interviews with friends and asking for honest feedback – or even taping yourself and watching how you come off. Put yourself in the employer’s shoes while watching yourself. Employers are usually looking to hire someone they’d like to see on a daily basis.
Also…if I may…in social work efficiency (while admittedly very important with the heavy caseloads) is not what you want to push as your strongest asset when interviewing for a human-centered job.
Out of curioisity I have another question…is there any chance you might be ready to find a new industry? Do you really like what you do and the type of work environment it involves? Does it truly fit you and your preferences? If so, just ignore this thought. I figured it was worth asking just in case.
In any event…you sound like someone who once he sees the issue can find a solution. So good luck finding a happy medium that still allows you to be real and personable – and get the “yes!”
Please let us know what happens, Matthew. I wish you much luck in your career!
~ Ronnie Ann
This is a great site. It makes it easier knowing that others have the same questions as I do.
I have had to take a long hard look at myself, and wonder why I am getting some good interviews for jobs I am more than qualified for, but few offers. I got some feedback from outside sources, and they feel that I may intimidate potential employers by being almost “too professional” i.e. cold and impersonal. I didn’t agree at first, but after my last interview, I wonder if I do come off being too work focused, and not letting a bit of silliness come into play. Example: They asked me the “why should we hire you” question, and I dove in and explained that I would give them the most bang for their buck, in terms of few sick days, being focused on work while at work, and not liking personal, chit-chat phone calls when at work (I figure I can do those on my own time at home). To be honest, the interviewers looked a little appalled. I think I may have come off as too much of a hard a**, and not “friendly”. BTW, I am a trained social worker, and used to working in difficult settings (crisis situations, prisons, etc…). I just wonder if I need to sweeten up a bit, even if that means not telling the exact truth about my work habits? I AM likable, and have lots of friends, but feel like I am not finding that fine line between being “nice” and “flexible” and being perceived as too hard charging. Anyone else find this to be an issue for them? Any advice?
Thanks
Matthew
Thanks for the kind words and good luck all !!
Oh Manny! You made my day. Thank you for sharing this with all of us. We love good news.
Nice situation to be in since you can look for that better job while getting some $$$. And you never know what the job you have might lead to. Hope this is the beginning of lots of good things coming your way. 😉
Oh…and nice of Jay to respond. Extra good luck to you both! You deserve it!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Congrats, Manny!
I’m happy to hear the good news. I myself am still waiting after a second interview earlier this week. I really hope the economy gets better soon. It feels really weird to take this long to find a job.
Hello all:
Finally got a job (w/o benefits)after being out 7 months ! I start in another week. Also gaining ground on an even better opportunity most likely
with full benefits. Things finally turned around for me !
Thanks for letting us know, Jennie. I’m so sorry to read this of course, but smart that you asked for feedback. And of course there is always the possibility they may at some point realize (and invest in) a valuable employee. 😉
Just know that no matter what the economy is like, there can be a job out there for you should you ever get to the point you want to start looking. Meanwhile, times like this often provide motivation to think about your career and any ways to strengthen your chances now to get you to that job meant for Jennie!
– Ronnie Ann
Hi! Thank you for the well wishes but unfortunately I did not get the job…. but neither did my coworker who applied with me. I work for a supplier company and the company we do contract work for decided to hire someone from another agency which means the decision had little to do with my interview and more to do with money. If another company offers a potential employee up for less money, then they are going to most likely take that person. It irks me a bit as the posting required experience that you would only receive working in my current line of business and they hired someone with absolutely no experience… just goes to show that in this economy, saving a few bucks wins out over proven experience.
I hope this means something better is coming for me 🙂
I did request feedback on my interview though – I’d like to know how I would have done if $$ hadn’t been a factor.
Hi Jennie!
I do have my fingers crossed for you – all of them! (So hard to type.) I know how tough it must be for you. Hope you managed to at least enjoy some of your weekend. Please let us know what happens. Wishing you an offer – THE offer – soon!
– Ronnie Ann
Hi again Manny!
Thank you for letting us know. I sort of assumed it was a scam, but good to have confirmation. You’re so right…resumes online can bring lots of things besides legitimate requests for an interview. We all have to be careful. Best rule is there are no guarantees and anyone who seems to be offering you something that sounds too good or makes you question the legitimacy is probably not for real. And places that charge you up front to find jobs are very suspect. Definitely research these things the way Manny did.
Best of luck, Manny. Please keep in touch! 😉
Ronnie Ann
I did some research and am now 100% percent
the $2500 for resume re-write,etc,etc.. was a scam.
Job seekers beware of who contacts you once you
post your resume on the “net”.
Well no news yet. I was told they would be letting us know by today but by 4:30pm I hadn’t heard anything so I popped into my HR office as they were closing and asked the recruiter – she said she sent an email and put in a phone call to the person who interviewed me and never received a response. So I guess I have to wait until Monday now to find out. …. so keep your fingers crossed!!! lol
Thanks Ronnie Ann.
I was supposed to have a second interview in October for a place I interviewed late September and never heard back.
Then the recuiter emails me a month later (last week) to ask if I heard back about the second interview.
Regarding the resume and services company:
I had an hour phone conversation with this guy and said we would need many more before they determined if they would take me on as a client. It just sounded like a finally polished “sales” pitch.
Thanks all – Manny
Oh Manny!
I’m so sorry you’re still looking for a job. But my personal opinion – and that’s all it is – is run don’t walk away from offers like this. He’ll “waive” the fee? For me that already sends up a red flag. Your money would be better spent with a good career coach and great resume writer.
Be very careful before shelling out hard-earned money to places that charge upfront for neat packages like this and who claim they can do all this for you without even talking to you. And a cover and resume needs to be tailored to specific jobs. Those custom and yet general versions would not be money well spent.
Just my opinion, as I said. Hope that helps. 😉 Investing in yourself and your job hunt is a smart idea if you can afford it. Just please invest wisely. Glad your instincts have you asking all the right questions!
I wish you much luck, Manny!
Ronnie Ann
Sorry if this was the wrong topic thread for my post above.
Hi all:
Still out of work and looking. I need a general concensus on this please. What do you all think about this:
I got contacted by a company that helps people finds jobs in the “unpublished” job
market. They create 3 different versions of a person’s resume, create 12 different covers,
and create a “marketing” website all for the low price of $2500. He said they would waive the $495 fee to place me with 2000 recruiters and waive the fee to place me with bunch of employers. I get leads sent to me “every day” and they claim to have leads in the
“unpublished” job market and have decision maker contacts who I think I would have to solicit (not sure about that one). It still seems like a whole to money. He said they wont take
on anybody as a client,either. From a common sense perspective, what do you all think about this ? Does it sound like way too much $$ ??
Looking for a lot of opinions on this. thanks
LOL! Good luck, Jennie. I know how hard waiting like this can be. Hope you get it. If not, I have some Magic 8 Ball butt to kick. 😉
Fingers crossed for you!
Ronnie Ann
I had an interview today for a position within the company I currently work for. It’s incredibly nerve-racking to not know anything. They told me they have a few more people to interview but will let me know their decision by Friday. It’s only 2 days but I feel like I’m losing my mind. I wish they would just say “look, you’re not getting it” if that’s the case instead of making a person wait. haha!
Oh and according to your magic 8 ball, I’m getting the job so I’m putting my faith in the sphere. 🙂
Hi Kathi!
I think there’s no right answer here. Trust your gut. Since he’s a fan, a short e-mail on top of the call (in case he didn’t get the VM) would probably be ok. Maybe it will help you feel you’ve put the period on the sentence. But after that…it’s all in their hands.
I just want to say again how well I think you’ve handled all this. I still have everything crossed for you – but also glad you’re applying elsewhere. Good for momentum and spirit. . Please let us know what happens!
– Ronnie Ann
Thanks, Ronnie Ann.
I talked to the recruiter on Friday. She had not heard anything, but said I should give the Interviewing Manager at the company a call. He is a big fan of mine. I missed him, but left a voice message. Said I hoped he’d had a terrific vacation the week before. I was calling to reiterate how much I wanted to work for the company and thought I’d be a great asset to the company, passionate about what I do. etc. Just giving him a quick call as I was told I would hear something back by Wednesday and since it was Friday. I was hoping to get an update on where they were in the hiring process. If he could call me back with any info, I’d appreciate it. I left my phone number and thanked him and now I am just hoping for the best.
At this point, I figure I have done all that I can do now. I’ll just wait to hear from him and apply elsewhere in the meantime. (I was considering writing the manager a follow-up email, but not sure if it will do any good.
Any thoughts on that?)
Thanks for your support!
Kathi
Oh Kathi…I’m still hoping to hear good news from you, but I can really relate to how you must be feeling right now. True, no news can be good news. A friend of mine has a variation “No news is no news.” 😉
Please don’t kick yourself for anything you said or did in the interview. You followed her lead – which was all you could do. Either she had her mind made up ahead of time (if so you really are better off if you don’t get the offer) or she really wants to work with you and they just have to go through some internal processes that take time. (Sometimes it’s as simple as they have to interview enough people to show they were thorough.)
I’m hoping it’s just normal internal process stuff and you will soon be writing us with news that is good news indeed. Fingers, legs and eyes crossed yet again. Good luck, Kathi!
– Ronnie Ann
I can relate to “Rat in a cage” My situation makes me feel like “Kat in cage…chasing my own tail and going round in circles.” Even though I was supposed to hear from HR by Wednesday, I have not heard a peep from anyone–it is SO frustrating. Worst of all, without a response, I am now left thinking of all the things that could have gone wrong. All my positives are now turning negative. Was it bad not to keep the conversation focused on me, instead of talking about the manager. Was I too friendly and buddy-buddy…should I have stopped our general conversation and been more reserved and professional? Was it a bad sign the interview only lasted 15-20 minutes? Did I complement her too much? I can’t imagine my perception of the interview and how well she and I appeared to connect could be that off, but… I was almost positive I had the job and now, not so much.
It is SO difficult not to second guess yourself or wonder with no word or feedback. I have been told, “no news is good news”, but in my head, I am thinking if I was right for the position, they would just go ahead and HIRE me! Sigh. Thanks for the advice and article. The post-interview temporary OCD blues are tough! I’ll keep you posted.
Hi Rat!
Yup. You’re not alone. But I gotta say…sounds like a rat in cage AND a maze. Personally, I find the best approach is to do your best, send your thank yous, and keep going. If there is a good reason for an additional contact – especially one where you can remind them how talented you are but also how pleasant you’d be to have around – you give it a shot. I’ve had jobs that came back at me after I had almost forgotten and a could that came after I already said
yes” elsewhere.
This may sound corny, but sometimes we can be the rat and the cage. Whether you still let yourself have hope or just let it go and accept whatever happens, the offer can still come.
Thanks for sharing this. I think a LOT of people can relate to your words. Good luck getting out of the cage and the maze! Please let us know what happens. Who knows? There may even be a nice surprise coming. I hope. 😉
Meanwhile, maybe this will help a little:
I Got the Post-Interview Temporary OCD Blues
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann.
I just found this site and I am glad to know that I am NOT alone in feeling anxious…as my family would like me to believe. Some of my friends said I was “obsessing” because I was thinking about the interviews and talking about them. But I know that many people who aren’t out of work and only remember the job market from “back in the day” when there were more jobs than people, can not relate. But in this market just getting the interview is a feat.
I went on three interviews in the past few weeks. The first was for a Recruiter doing a contract job. They said I was perfect for the job and that they would be calling me to do a telephone interview with the client and then I would start and work for many months -at a phenomenal pay rate. I called about a week ago and he said that the recruiter had been “way-layed” by another project and that if I’d sit tight, he’d get me in.
In addition, another recruiter had submitted me for a temp designer job in nyc. Then she called back and asked if I’d work in the suburbs (which I said yes). She said that it was for the same job – only this would be a permanent one. I said yes. Then I had a telephone interview with the HR Director from the firm…it wasn’t a designer position at all, but for ART DIRECTOR. Well I didn’t really have that experience, but he was very gushy and excited and said that I’d be perfect and that they’d be honored if I’d come to work for them. So then about a week later they set up the interview and away I went. I met the VP/MGR. He asked me many questions and kept referring to the job as “Creative Director.” He smiled and asked me how long it would take for me to get there from my house. But he changed the job a few times in his interview..saying it was creative and I’d be on my own and then that it wasn’t creative at all..and asked me what part of the process I was best at – or liked most (I told him I enjoyed the entire process) and he seemed impressed when I pulled out notes I’d taken during the telephone interview – as he wanted to know what HR told me. I thought it was going well. But then he says that they’ll be bringing in a few people over the next few weeks and that either he or the HR Director will be getting in touch with me. I had no idea what this meant. The description the HR person gave me didn’t match his description. HR said I’d manage 18 people. He tells me that the entire office is only 15 people…and I got the impression that I’d be doing all of the work. I was confused. Finally the recruiter from the agency gets back to me and says, “there is no feedback..all they would say is that they are still interviewing.” And that, “should they decide to move forward with you, I will let you know.” I felt like telling her to forget about it. But instead I said that it didnt look promising and thanked her for the update. In the meantime I’ve heard nothing from the other job. There are little free-lance jobs I could take here and there, but have been holding off. At what point to you say…enough and just move on? Maybe sometimes we have to decide when we’ve waited long enough and not wait for an answer. I’ve had interviews where no one ever called me back..and the recruiter didn’t answer the voicemails. I really wanted the Art Director job. It wasn’t what I applied for..but they dangled it in front of me…and all that time…I got the impression that the VP didn’t read my resume before I got there. I hate that. Sometimes I just feel like a rat in a cage. This interviewing market is brutal stuff.
Ah Kathi!
This is a fabulous story. Wow. I’m so glad it went this way. She sounds like she’d be a hoot to work with. Of course, you’re right in not assuming anything. But I couldn’t imagine a better way for you to show what a wonderful complement you’d be for her. And vice versa.
Re-crossing everything. Best of luck! PLEASE let us know.
– Ronnie Ann
Hello Had an Interview Today!
Sorry…but my crystal ball is a little cloudy at the moment. 🙂 Actually sounds like you did really well. Now it all depends on the other candidates and the fit. Sometimes interviewers – even when they like you – need to move things along (another interview, a meeting, etc.) And sometimes interviews that last a long time and feel great, don’t turn out. There are so many factors. Filling out the application is certainly am=n indication they were not dismissing you!
Now it’s up to the unknowable gods of interviews. Send nice thank you notes, relax as best you can, congratulate yourself on doing a good job, and then just…yes I’m going to say it…wait. A follow up call in a week or two would be ok. But only once. 😉
Best of luck. Please keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann:
All that finger, eyes and leg crossing must have helped! I just had the most unusual interview ever! For the most part we mostly talked about her! The manager came down to meet me in the lobby and the first thing I noticed was that she was dressed in a Halloween outfit and had short black hair (odd, she had long blonde hair on LinkedIn) When she started to explain that she was dressed for Halloween and actually had blonde hair…it gave me a natural opening. I said, “I thought so! I looked you up on LinkedIn, as I like to be prepared, and I noticed that!” Her immediate response was “Really? Thank you for that. Most people don’t bother.”
From there, we were off and running, I said I was so impressed by her background and asked if ___ and ___ (two companies she worked for) were in NYC. Then, I told here about our 3 degrees of separation (I’m linked to her through my brother-in-law), which she thought was amazing, When we walked into the office she shares with Justin (who I had met when I interviewed for her job) He said, “I know her. She’s a lot of fun!” She asked how I knew him and I told her and said, “Once I saw your background, I knew they hired the right person for the job!” I citied some info from her resume and she even supplemented it with more info on her background. And she thanked me again for the compliments and she complimented my creative background in return.
She asked me if I had any questions for her…then she answered for me! She said, “Well, here is where most people ask me about the company, but I guess you already know those answers!” I asked her if she had questions for me, and she just asked why I wanted to stop freelancing and work there and if I was comfortable writing for all media. (answers which required about 3 minutes of time.)
Then, she complimented me again on my experience and background and then we just chatted about New York (I’m from there) and where she lived and worked and all about other aspects of her background. It was NOT at all like an interview. She was delightfully funny, warm and friendly and we were just laughing and joking like old friends and Justin joined in with a quip from time to time.
That was basically it! I know both her supervisors since I interviewed with them, so there wasn’t much more to discuss. She told me she would give the HR guy her feedback and I should hear from him by next Wednesday. And she commented how easy the interview went. I even asked if she wanted to see my work, but she said no.
She wanted to walk me out and we chatted all the way down about what a great place the company is, how everyone works hard and just general chit-chat. We shook hands, complimented each other again and I left. Total time was about 15-20 minutes tops.
It was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced–nothing like a typical professional interview at all! I am hoping that was a good thing! I thought she was terrific and we certainly got along. Guess I’ll see what officially happens next week, but I am feeling positive!
Thanks again for all your support and advice!
Kathi
I had an interview today and not sure what to think. When I was phone screened, the person on the other end asked me to tell him about what I do (he had my resume in hand). I told him. He then asked if such and such were the pay, would I still be interested. I said, yes. He said, okay I will talk with my director of sales. Two weeks later, they called to say I had an interview with the director.
I went today and they asked me a series of behavioral type questions, which I believe I answered fine. They asked me if there was anything I wanted to point out in addition to the answers I gave to the behavioral questions and I plugged my ability to negotiate (I am in sales) a 5-year contract with a large customer. They seemed impressed, but anxious to move on. I felt pressed for time for some reason. They seemed anxious but not sure if it was a “Wow. I think we found her.” Or a “Please, let this be over.”
Oh, they had be fill out the application after the interview.
Any suggestions? Thanks.
Kathi!
Sorry I took so long to get back to you. I’m so happy you got the interview. Wuhoo!
I think you’ve handled this great. Love your attitude and approach. Also very cool the way you two can complement each other. As for the coincidence – terrific use of LinkedIn. One word of advice – and I almost hesitate to even mention it. I once used some research I did as the ice breaker and the guy was NOT appreciative. But I came on a little too strong, I think. Maybe just ease it in and if she seems to think it’s cool, enjoy! If not, just tell her how glad you are to meet her. 😉
Best of luck. Please keep us posted. Fingers, legs and eyes crossed for you!
Ronnie Ann
Hello Blair!
Once again, as a good friend of mine says, no news is no news. Your wife and mom may be trying to keep you from getting your hopes too high. My way is…keep your hopes up (why not?) until you know for sure. It’s true that this is worded in a way that looks like it might not be good news. But then again, many HR departments go out of there way to be non-committal so they don’t get into hassles later if things turn out differently.
Sounds like you did all the right things. Now you might as well just hang in there, do some fun stuff in the meantime, keep looking no matter what, and wait for the answer. Hope it’s a yes, but if not, use the energy to find an even better job for you!
Good luck! Please let us know how it goes.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Evans!
Thanks for the kind words about my blog. Glad it’s helping.
Short answer…yes there is hope. I once waited almost 4 months just for a second interview for an IT-related job. So many reasons – you’ll find some here if you read comments from the beginning. But the main point is…it ain’t over yet!
I wish you much luck. Please let us know.
– Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie:
Great news! The company called to set up an interview with me for the Senior Writer position! I’ll be meeting with the person they hired for the Manager position this Friday at 10 a.m. In researching her background (I like to be prepared), I found it to be far different from my own. She doesn’t have the copywriting, creative. or ad agency background the company had initially requested (which I do) but she is extremely strong in media and marketing and the more technical and organizational aspects of the job. (which I am not.) In other words, I would be a excellent complement to her skill set. I know everyone else on the team likes me (or I would not be interviewing), so it will probably come down to “personality testing” – how well she and I get along. Since we have completely opposite skill sets, there is no reason for anyone to be concerned. We should be a great match! I will keep you posted! Thanks for your support and advice! PS I even have a terrific ice breaker…I checked her profile on LinkedIn and it tells you if or how you are connected. Through some bizarre coincidence, she and my brother-in-law apparently have a mutual contact! (We can’t tell who) We’re in FL and my brother-in-law lives in CT, so three degrees of separation is wild! (Great story to bond over, isn’t it?
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I came across your blog today and am enjoying it. I’m in a master’s program for Library and Information Science. I had a job interview for a Library Tech position this Tuesday and wasn’t sure how the interview went; taking time to process it more afterwards, I think it went well. I had five people interviewing me, none of whom I had met before. I was also unaware a group would be interviewing me. Basically they all took turns asking the questions.
Anway, one lady from HR who was there told me that “we will definitely be talking to you soon”. She said this after the interview. That sounded good. I sent thank yous to each person who was there. The one I sent to the particular HR lady I mentioned came back with this response: “Thank you for your e-mail, Blair. We enjoyed meeting you also. I wish you the best in your job search. As stated, you will be hearing from us via telephone next week sometime. Take care and thank you again for your interest in Lake Superior College.” Both my wife and my mother say this sounds like bad news. I have taken a more optomistic stance, but am I being foolish? Is there any circumstance, from your experience, that even though I was told this I could possibly still get the job? They are hiring for two positions. I really want this job.
I know you don’t want to answer personal requests, but maybe this would qualify as a question for everyone. That or I’m just being naiive. 🙂
Best, and thanks for your site,
~Blair
Hi Ronnie Ann
I just found your blog and absolutely love it! You have a lot of great information and advice on your site. I have a question for you I am sure you get all of the time but I’m at a loss on what to do at this point.
I am a computer programmer by profession.I recently went for my second interview at a leading IT firm.I believe that the interview was a success .I sent thank you note after the interview process.My problem is,its been nearly a month since my second interview and the company has not called me.I called them just the other day and they told me that the decision is being handled by the management.They assured me that they will inform me as soon as the decision is made by the management.Its been nearly a month and I am still waiting.Is their hope really?
Hi Gina!
Glad you brought that up. This post is of course intended for in-person interviews. I have other posts that talk about phone interviews, but not quite with this slant… so maybe a new post is called for. Thanks for the idea since phone interviews are very common – although if the whole business of hiring is phone only, I have so many things to say about that!
But while you can’t hear body language, you can get a sense of how the interviewer is responding to you – and indeed whether there’s a smile or enthusiasm in their voice. You can almost feel them leaning in when it’s going well.
Am sure other readers have been wondering. Thanks again for bringing this up!
And for anyone interested, here’s one of my phone interview posts that gives some hints for how to handle them:
Please Help Me Ace My Phone Interview!
– Ronnie Ann
I haven’t read through the 430+ comments, so maybe you touched on this somewhere, however, many interviews in the agency I work for (gov) conducts all interviews on the phone. It is hard to note body language or smiles (although you can hear laughter).
Just a thought!
I love your attitude, Kathi. Very smart. A career is more than just about today. I certainly don’t have all the answers – lord knows! But if you want the Senior Writer position, why not contact them and make your interest and complete comfort with the situation known. You can also let them know you fully realize the new manager needs to be comfortable with this too and you’d be happy to meet with her and see if it might be a great match.
True…some places worry about things like this, but others see an opportunity to get two strong people. Why not give them a chance to prove themselves as the latter! 😉
Best of luck. Please let us know how it goes.
Ronnie Ann
Dear Ronnie Ann:
You are awesome! Thank you so much for your supportive response! I truly appreciate it! I did finally hear back on Friday, I did NOT get the Manager spot, but I am still up for the Senior Writer position. Herein lies the rub…I would be working for the person who DID get the manager’s job! Can you say, “awkward”? LOL
Now, I do want to work for the company…I am a VERY strong writer and I’m passionate about what I do. My way of thinking…a job doing what I love at a company I would like to work for is great! I feel there is always room for advancement and promotions and I am very cool about decisions. If they found someone they feel is better, great! Sure I’m a little disappointed, but I can live with it. What I wonder is…how the Manager hired and other managers may feel. They might feel I would be insulted. Who knows?
I know the hiring manager and HR manager want to hire me. Do you think I should write them or the two women and say I am interested in the writer position? My career placement person told the hiring manager that I am.
I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Thank you SO much for being there for us all!
Kathi
Awww Kathi…I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Speaking of long btw…that’s a long question! 😉 As you seem to have understood, I’ve been trying to cut back on my answers (see note at end of post), but since I know how hard it is hanging in limbo, here are a few thoughts…
First…no reason to give up until you hear for sure what’s going on. I’ve written before about this and even told of a time I was kept waiting for 4 months!!! (And I was their top candidate.) You should however keep looking with as much determination and enthusiasm as you had for this job. And yes…if it’s been a few weeks since you spoke with the company recruiter, why not send a short, polite e-mail (or call) and see if there’s something more than you already have been told. I normally tell people not to bug the company, but at this point in the process, I believe it would be ok – and maybe help keep you sane. 🙂
While this isn’t common, it does happen. Giving up seems unnecessary. If they want you and eventually make an offer, then it’s a nice surprise. So many things can happen that would make it ok. (You’ll have to decide for yourself of course should that occur.)
In the meantime…
12 Ways to Stay Sane After a Job Interview
Good luck! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann:
I’m wondering how long is too long (without hearing anything back) before one should give up on a job. (Topic for discussion?)
An agent at a work force job placement company found a lead for me and set things in motion. I interviewed with both the Recruitment Director and HR Manager of this large company. They both thought I was wonderful and pushed for an immediate interview with the department head. (they have been trying to fill the position since MAY) I met her and 4 days later, I met and talked with her boss, the department head.We got along well and she had me meet the gentleman I would be sharing an office with. He and I hit it off. Sounds good, right? That was on 9/17. I sent TY notes to all. Got a great note back from the guy on the 17th. Heard from the department head woman on the 9/23, but just a quick email. “Thank you. It was a pleasure meeting you and talking with you. Thank you for your time with us.” with only a standard signature line. To me that sounded dismissive. The work force agent disagreed, saying I was still in the running and they would be choosing someone “soon”. A week later, I was also put up for another position on the same team. (Odd thing here..one is a management position and one is not. So, if I did not get the 1st job and did get the second, I would be working for the person who DID get the job I initially interviewed for!)
Okay, that was the week of 9/28. Now it is the 13th. Two more weeks of nothing. I have not heard a peep from the company (and I have been told if I was not being considered I would have received a letter or email) and I have not heard back from the work force person despite leaving two voice mails. Should I give up and assume they just aren’t going to tell me anything? (the job is still open on their website)
I’ve never interviewed and been left hanging for so long. Is that common? Do companies rush to interview like that and then not communicate at all for a month? I’m confused. I have not put all my eggs in this basket, but it is a job I would love to have. I just feel it may be gone and no wants to tell me!
I hate hanging in limbo. Do you think I should call the recruiting gentleman at the company directly and ask about the status and when they might be making a decision? He does like me.
What is your take on this? Any insights or opinions are welcome! You don’t need to answer me directly. I’m just wondering if anyone else has had this situation..what did they do? Did anyone ended up waiting for months and getting the job? Maybe you could post a general info thought.
Thanks so much for your time and help.
😉
Thank u Ronnie Ann…that was a relief to me…really…thanks a lot…
Hi Sonia!
I wish I could give you a big hug. You are most definitely NOT alone in this. Yes…it is very common.
One of the main things I think that could help right away would be to stop trying to memorize answers from the internet. When I hire people, I look for someone who is being himself or herself – and who is giving me real answers and not canned answers. Interviewers can tell.
Practicing with a friend would probably help. Or in the mirror. Or on a voice recorder. Just listen carefully and try to be spontaneous. If you are thinking ahead to the “right” answer, you’re not in the moment and you’ll seem artificial. Also, almost everyone is nervous so don’t be nervous about being nervous, ok? 😉
Keep practicing but don’t memorize answers. In fact, try to give a slightly different answer each time when you practice. It will help loosen you up and make the answer more real authentic.
Here are two of my posts that might help:
15 Things I Look for When I Interview People
18 Practical Things You Can Do to Ace Your Job Interview
Why Do I Get Nervous During a Job Interview?
Just keep going. You’ll be fine. Even if you’re a little nervous, look them in the eye, listen carefully, don’t forget to smile a little, and show them you are someone they want to work with.
Good luck, Sonia!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I just had the 2nd interview of my life today. Left the previous job 2 months back, and got the call for a new job today. I guess I blew up the interview. I forgot answers to questions that I may have just read a couple of days back. I am good at my work, I can solve problems quickly. But I fail to show my skills during interviews. Is this common among people? Or is it abnormal? 🙁 Can you please advice on how to overcome this?
Hi Manny!
Congratulations on still being in the running. Basically behavioral interviews look to how you’ve handled things in the past to try to predict what you’ll be like as an employee for your new employer. Actually, in a good interview, you try to show employers that yourself anyway.
Best of luck, Manny. PLEASE let us know what happens!
Ronnie Ann
Looks like I am still in the running for a job I really want. Trouble is I have another interview with the director which will include a technical as well as a “behavorial” interview. Does anyone have any information on what a behavorial interview is and maybe some good links to prepare? Thank you so much!
Manny
The Technology field is tough, even for seasoned pro’s like myself.
Well, I keep trying but it seems as though someone else keeps getting the job. Oh well, I’d be lying if I said that isn’t hard to bare, but it just inspires me to keep going.
Manny
Hi Manny! Thanks for stopping by and letting us know. Was wondering how you’re doing. Glad to get some positive news.
Fingers, legs, and eyes crossed for you! 😉
Ronnie Ann
Things are picking up and I am juggling different interviews now and will let you all know when I finally land something.
Manny
Aw Manny…I’m so sorry. I was really hoping for you. Of course, I still am. 😉 Thanks for letting us know. And I love your attitude. I hope it pays off big time with a job you love.
Best of luck!
Ronnie Ann
Well just an update, it doesn’t look like I get that job from the second company I interviewed with.
But I am Ok with it. I know thet talked to several people but only one can “win” the job. This doesn’t
deter me at all about pushing forward and to keep looking. Thanks all !
Manny
Oh Manny…I have fingers, eyes and legs crossed for you. Really hope this comes through. Nice to see you had another interview so quickly. It feels like something good is coming your way soon. And don’t forget to keep the momentum going while in the waiting game. 😉
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
I just had an interview with another company
today. The interview took 2 hours and the
interviewer had an easy style to make me feel comfortable.They said it would take about 2 weeks to decide so now is the dreaded “waiting game”. I sent a “thank you” email.
Will you all know what happens.
Manny !!
Nice way of looking at things Manirronn. I hope to hear good news from you SOON. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
I am not going to pursue the opportunity further. I personally dont believe in sending “thank you” emails/letters after being rejected, however I would never send a toxic email/letter to them either letting them know about my disappointment.
After claming down and thinking about it, they probably did make the right choice going with someone else as they saw it. Onward with the search !!! ;]
Oh Manny!
I’m soooo sorry you didn’t get it. Although not having to do a 30-mile commute each way may turn out to be a blessing. Still, remember that in business a “no” may be the beginning of a yes. So stay in touch with them. 😉
Best of luck getting the right job for you. Please stay in touch.
Hi Mbernake!
Thanks for the kind words. And your advice is wonderful. Hard for people to believe that being themselves really is the way to go, but it is!
Thanks for the support, but I just got the rejection email. They filled the position with someone else.
Oh well, it would have been a 30 mile commute one way anyway.
Just have to keep looking.
Manny
This is a great commentary! You must have done a lot of hiring in your past. I agree with every single thing that you said. Especially, that no matter how well the interview went you may just not be right for the job. That is why I believe you must be yourself in the interview. If you pretend you are someone that you are not and you actually get the job, you might be very unhappy because the employer incorrectly thought you fit the job.
Great Advice!!!
My fingers are crossed, too. Thanks for letting us know.
All the best, Manny!! I really hope you get this.
Just had the second on-site interview today. Not really sure if it will go to the next level which they said should be the last before the decision. Keeping fingers crossed!
Small wuhoo! Hoping for a bigger one soon. 😉
Good reminder for everyone that sometimes employers repost the job, but it doesn’t mean you’re out. It can be contracted to repost or they can simply be playing it safe, looking for more resumes.
Fingers, eyes, and legs crossed for you, Manny. Best of luck!
Well I guess it really does pay to be patient.
The employer called me back today and wanted to set up another on-site interview. Will let you know how it goes!
Manny 🙂
Hi Penny!
I could hug you. I think I will…{{{{{PENNY}}}}
It’s totally my fault and you’re right to remind me. I get overwhelmed sometimes by all the questions (although thankfully they have decreased since I posted my new policy), but my heart goes out to my readers and I give in and answer. I’ll try to do better, but hope you forgive me if sometimes I can’t help just a wee answer or two . 😉
And your advice already helped me today with a very very long question(s) that I normally would have gone on and on answering. So thanks for caring enough to coach me a bit – and for the kind words.
Ronnie Ann
Hi, Ronnie Ann. It’s great to see someone giving such candid and helpful free advice to job-seekers.
It would be nice, wouldn’t it, if people would respect your new policy and stop asking individual questions? Perhaps you should put your foot down and truly enforce the policy. Then perhaps they will get the idea.
I still haven’t heard anything back and I just noticed that employer re-ran the job advertisement. It seems that st least in my field employers are holding out for the “perfect” match.
Oh well, time to get back to the grindstone and keep at it. Thanks and good luck to you all on here!
Manny
Oh, Manny! Sorry to read that. But love your attitude. Get out there and find an even better job. You are the perfect match for the right employer. It’s a two-way street, you know. Best of luck. Please write to tell me when you get THE job. I know it’s coming for you! 🙂
Hi Joey!
Thanks so much for the kind words. Nice to know you found some things here that help.
You ask about how to get your dream job, and the full answer to that would take a few sessions, not just a comment!
But here are some posts that might help. Remember…it’s never just one thing:
Thinking of Changing Careers for that Dream Job? Be Creative!
How Baby Steps Can Get You Out of the Trenches and Into a Career You Love
20 Simple Tips to Help Move Your Career Ahead
How a New Resume and Cover Letter Got Her the Job Interview!
Finding a Job is a Daily Job
Most important…contact people you know in the field or find new friends in retail and ask for their help. The best way to get a dream job is through personal contacts.
Best of luck, Joey. If you keep trying and aren’t afraid to ask for help, you’ll get there!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I have been always visiting your blog and read it a several times, I have learnt a lot about different interviews and experience and really appreciate your time and your advice to each one of them
I have been with Retail for a couple of yrs now, held different management positions, being new to CA, I have had many job interviews with big brands having 3 and 4 rounds of interviews each and in every interview, i give in my best short ,I feel very confident and feel like i am already there….. I do write a thank you letter too..and wait,but thats it, its just waiting and waiting!!, I have great passion for retail, will appreciate your advice on how to get my dream job
Joey
Thnak you for the reply! For sure I will let you all know what happens one way or the other.
Hi Manny!
Even though the initial part of the process went so quickly, it is not uncommon at all for the later steps to take a while. Three days is NOT a long time. Sometimes it takes that long or much longer for two people just to find time to discuss the top candidates and decide what to do.
Relax. You did your best and got great feedback. Now you simply have to wait! 😉 But if you don’t hear anything in another week, it would be perfectly ok to send a polite e-mail letting them know you are still interested. I hope you sent your thank you notes already, but if not…you can do that right away.
Good luck! Please let us know what happens.
Hi:
I had a phone interview last week with a software company. It was the initial phone screen with H.R. At the end , I was told that my info would be forwarded to the hiring mgr for consideration. I heard back a few hours later that the mgr was interested and wanted an formal phone interview with me. We scheduled the phone interview that day and 2 days later I talked with both the mgr and team lead. I was told I did better answering questions about a key skill they wanted as compared to anyone else they talked to. The mgr then said he would like to take the next step and schedule an in-person interview. The in-person interview lasted about an hour and a half taking turns answering questions to both people. When it was over, the mgr said he would discuss me with the other guy and if there is going to be a next step, it would be another half day meeting with other people to see if I was a good fit culturally. I am thinking that it is probably not going to happen for me because they scheduled the next step the first 2 times pretty quickly but now I havent heard from them for 3 days after the in-person interview.
I’ll keep you posted…hopefully it will be good news! Happy 4th of July to you as well:)
That’s perfect Grace. Best to wait for them to ask for the reference letters – and I hope they do. Have a great Fourth of July! Hope there’s good news soon in your future. Please let us know. 😉
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thanks for the quick response. I already sent my thank you letters within 24hrs of my 2nd interview without attaching my reference letter though. But I also mentioned in my thank you letter to contact me if they need me to provide more information, hopefully that would suffice.
Grace
Hi Grace!
Usually they will ask when they need it. But if you like, you can always attach it to a nice thank you e-mail letting them know how much you enjoyed meeting them and saying you look forward to hearing from them soon. (Remember to send the e-mail or e-mails either way.)
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi there, I had my second interview 2 days ago and I think it went pretty well. Before I went, the HR consultant asked me to bring my list of references. However during my 2nd interview, the hiring managers did not ask for it and I completely forgot to give it to them as well. Should I email/fax it to them voluntarily or should I wait until the hiring managers ask? They also mentioned that they will let me know of their final decision by mid week of the following week.
Please advice on what to do with my reference list. Thanks!
Smart to keep applying, Mina. Fingers crossed for you to get a job you really like that treats you with respect!
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie Ann,
Thank you so much for the advice. I will give them a thank you letter and see what happens. At the same-time, I will apply at other places. But thank you so much again…I will keep you updated…
Hi Mina!
I make typos all the time. No need to even think of that here. 🙂
While I’ve pretty much stopped giving individual coaching advice on this blog (to protect my sanity), I feel really bad for what you just went through and so let me at least share a few thoughts.
First, what you went through almost sounds like abuse. I would never conduct an interview that way. I’m seething just thinking about it. There’s no need for an interviewer to be rude – even if they’re trying to let you know how tough the job is.
That said, while you write that you feel she didn’t like you, truth is you didn’t like her. Admit it. Job interviews are a two-way street. Are you listening to your own instincts? If she’s going to be your boss or someone you actually have to work with, I’d think twice about this being a dream job. Could be a nightmare!
Even if she’s not going to work with you, the others just sat there and let her go on like this. Or did they try to make you more comfortable? Is this acceptable behavior on the job perhaps?
When I read what you wrote, I also know some people may have reacted differently to the same interview. But if this is how it feels to you, then I’d sure think twice about whether the work environment is one that matches you. It’s all about the fit – not how good something sounds on paper.
All that said…definitely send the thank-you note and see what happens. But in the meantime, go over it in your mind. What role if any would she play in your work life should you get the job? And does what you experienced in the interview represent what it might be like at the job?
Good luck finding a job (whether it’s this one or not) that is right for YOU! You sound lovely and deserve to be rewarded for being nice, not put down. Please let us know what happens, Mina!
Ronnie Ann
Sorry for the grammar and spelling errors, my computer automatically corrects it and sometimes it doesn’t make sense… I should of proof read before I submitted it, I do apologize again…
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thanks for this blog, I come here all the time and read posts and get great information.
I have a problem, I went on my interview today for my dream job. I was so excited and for the past week I have been preparing for this interview. But now I feel like I was unwanted.
I arrived 20 min early and went to the interview prepared with resumes and reference list and I dressed professionally and etc . As soon I met the recruiter, I got a bad feeling. She took me to her office and told me to have a seat and she goes off and tells me how she fired the last person for this job because it was not for them. Started saying its stressful and how she is so strict and (all negative things about the job).
The whole time she is talking, I was just looking at her and kinda shocked. Then the other 2 managers came, so then they introduced themselves and then she says, ” Ok lets start the interview”! She acted as if she never told me anything and she was waiting for them to come this whole time.
I got so nervous and at the same-time felt hated by her. The whole time she was looking at me up and down, and giving me fake smiles when I was telling them about myself and answering the other 2 managers questions.
The other two both seemed to like me and I was just focusing on them and trying to ignore her. She was not saying anything, she was listening and looking at me. Then out of no where, she says, ” I am not trying to hire someone that is trying to sit there and look cute and (she started saying some of my skills that I have mentioned, the ones that had nothing to do with the job). She started going on how this needs someone that could work under pressure and that can handle stress. I started to talk about my previous job and told her example’s of things I did and how many people I had to help and work for. I basically told her I am up for the job and I could handle it.
Later in the interview; every questions she asked me, she would repeat her questions over and over again. As if she wanted me to change my answer and the other two manager were looking at her like, ” what?” and she would just laugh and giggle and kept asking. I knew I gave an right answer. One of the questions she asked me was, if a co-worker wants me to pick up his or her kids from school and the co-worker told me they will cover for me, would you do it or what would you do? Obversely, if I am on clock and getting paid hourly, I would not leave and do such a thing. She asked me similar questions and repeated and wanted me to change my answer for some reason. But I gave her all my answer, from the best of my knowledge. I did not change anything.
Then they asked if i had any questions and I asked about a reg. work day in the office? Before anyone could say anything, she says, ” Well if you are hired, then your work day will be like …..”. (Looking at me with her eyes wide open), “again thats only if you are hired”. I think she was so rude. In the end she told me she was going to give me a call in 7 days to let me know because she had one more interview.
I feel so bad because this is my dream job and this “assistant manager” clearly doesn’t like me. What should I do? Should I still write her a thank you note and wait and see what happens. Or should I give up because there is no hope? Do you think I am taking it to seriously and maybe she had to ask those questions? I am so sorry for such long story, but I just wanted you to know exactly what happened! Is it me? Or her? Please give me some kind of advice, I am so confused. Thank you so much for everything you have done for everyone.
Hi Derek!
I remember you well and am happy that you stopped by. Your words warm my heart “I have the best boss ever, good hearted and considerate. A big difference from the evil tyrant I had previously worked for.” A good boss is a wonderful thing. Yay.
As for corporate politics…yup. They’re a pain. I have worked in non-profits, government, corporations, and even academia and there are politics everywhere. But if you don’t want to be part of it, staying out of it to the best of your ability as you’re doing now is a great plan. 😉
I like you’re idea of finding a second source of income – building toward a new career eventually, I assume. Meanwhile, you’re lucky not to be working for that tyrant anymore!
If possible, you can also look for ways to be more entrepreneurial right where you are. This post might give you some ideas:
Job Morphing: 20 Tips to Help You Promote Yourself
But of course, if you hate the politics and don’t want to move ahead where you are, your best bet is to start to create that path out for yourself for the long run. If it means taking on some part-time volunteer work or going back for some classes to help you make the jump, it’s worth having the patience to invest in yourself and your future that way.
Whatever you decide, Derek, I wish you MUCH luck. please drop by again. I think you’re great. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Not sure if you remember me, but I had come to you for advice, seems like ages ago, for a job I now have. Just thought I’d stop by and say hello.
Things are tough with the economy and all. The job is challenging from a time management standpoint and has taught me a lot. I’m starting to get restless however as there seems to be a lot more politics in this office from what I am used to. Morale is really bad here with the recent cutbacks and merger. I’m pretty much a mind my own business, work hard type of guy. I have close relationships only with my immediate coworkers. By the way, I have the best boss ever, good hearted and considerate. A big difference from the evil tyrant I had previously worked for 😉
You know what I’ve learned though? I’m so not corporate, it’s too much about money and capital management and not enough about self accomplishment, I need to get off my butt and figure out a way to be a little more entrepreneurial. My new years resolution was to have a 2nd source of income by years end.
Anyways I’m blabbering on, hope all is well with you and again, thanks.
Hi again Upcoming Interview!
Thanks for letting us know. Sorry about the first job, but I like the sound of this other opportunity for which they have basically hand-picked you. A very nice position for you to be in.
And to answer your question…not odd at all. I probably don’t say it enough (note to self: say it enough) but when you interview, you are not only interviewing for the job at hand, but for the one you don’t know about that may be available now or in the future. I’ve had this happen to me and also have recommended candidates who impress me for other jobs. Smart interviewers look for talent beyond the current opening.
I wish you much luck! Please keep us posted. I love a good story! 😉
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie,
So this must be pretty unique, so the interview went well the panel liked me, but there was alot of competition for others more senior in the field and applying from their competitors.
So they decided to go with someone else, but the HR rep has already put me in front of the director for another department which is probably a better fit with my degree and background. So sounds like I’m going to be heading back for more interviews only in another department. How odd is that :).
Thanks,
Still waiting.
Hi Scott!
Although I’m trying NOT to answer as often to preserve my own sanity, it seems my clever readers have figured out flattery gets them everywhere! 😉
I have to admit that being told you will hear back so quickly could be a good sign, depending on the tone and body language. But from this distance, all I can say is there’s a good chance they consider you a top candidate. If you weren’t they probably would wait to let you know after the dust settles.
Hoping you’ll get a great reply tomorrow. Please let us know. I love good news. 🙂
Oh…and thanks for the kind words.
Ronnie Ann
Dear Ronnie Ann,
What an exciting blog. Today I attended teaching fellow position interview today in a UK university. My interview took 2 hours. Althouh I was nervous, I tried to be very positive, motivated and committed to teaching. I have a feeling that I did well, some questions I couldn’t answer very well.
In the end, the interview chairperson told me that I can expect a reply by tomorrow morning. Does this indicate something good or bad? Looking forward to your reply. An awsome blog..much appreciated, especially they way you write back!
Never too late, Ean! Always worth a shot since you have nothing to lose by trying.
You can simply say something like “I just want to let you know how much I enjoyed meeting you and am still very interested in the job. I look forward to hearing from you.” If it turns out to be a “no”, it was probably a “no” anyway. But maybe…just maybe…you might get them to think about you again. As I said, worth trying, But I’ve also hired people who never sent me a thank you note; so it’s NOT a deal breaker – just a nice extra touch to your interview process.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
didnt send a thank you, guess its too late now, its a full week today.
Hi Ean!
Thanks for the kind words. I work in technology and can tell you there is no way to know for sure at this point. One week is NOT a lot to wait with no word. There may still be other interviews going on or many other reasons that don’t mean an outright rejection.
In the meantime, hope you’ve sent your thank you notes. And if you don’t hear by next week, it’s ok to call or e-mail (politely) and check in.
Hope you get a nice surprise soon. Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Thisis a great site! I had an interview at a university section last Wednesday, it was purely technical, managed to answer the majority of the questions well also wrote a test which Imust have scored alright. The manager mainly said yes and gave thumbs up during the interview. When I asked about common tasks he indicated that I would be responsible for ABC and said would get back to me soon. Still no response……is this a reject.
Hi again Upcoming Interview!
Very cool to be contacted because of your social networking. Nice reminder for anyone reading this. And yes…totally get that no matter how much we know or understand or what level job we’re going for, the doubt is still there. It ain’t over until you have that offer in hand. 😉
Good luck closing the deal, UI.
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie,
Those were my thoughts, I don’t really stress out to much so the interview doesn’t worry me. Just one of those alpha types, confidence not a problem. I was figuring this week they would reference check, then on the day of the interview since my tour is scheduled after, I think they will discuss me directly after the interview while I’m on the tour. Probably difficult to get everyone together, job is just a touch under executive IMHO.
I figure once they discuss while I’m on the tour, if all is well probably get the offer that day. Anyways thanks for reassurance, but even the most laid back and confident of us have doubt until the deal is done lol. Reason I talked about no references is I never applied for the position they actually contacted me through linked in.
Thanks,
Hi Upcoming Interview!
Congratulations on what sounds like a really exciting opportunity. From what you tell me (although it appears there’s even more to the story), all I can say for sure is that they’re very interested and you have a chance to land this by giving the best interview you can and letting them see who you really are. Mostly, they want to make sure you’re someone they can rely on to do a great job and who they all want to work with on a daily basis.
As for the references, assuming all goes well, they’ll probably ask you for some before you leave or after you get home. Sometimes companies try to get them ahead of time, but if not, they make sure to get some before actually making an offer – or at least they should. The only exception I can think of might be if there are people they know and trust who know you and could act as references – or they are simply very loose about references. 🙂 But nowadays that really is an exception, especially for a company that is going to this time and expense to interview you.
At this point, don’t worry about any of that. Just do your best to relax and have a great interview. Maybe this might help a little, although sounds like you’ve been doing really well on your own:
15 Things I Look for When I Interview People
Good luck! And please let us know how it goes.
Ronnie Ann
Dear Ronnie,
I think I am in great shape but like others you always want reassurance……sigh. Here’s my story I have had 2 phone interviews already, 1st with the HR rep 2nd with HR rep and the person who would be my boss. Both went well, I interview pretty well, they emailed me 10 minutes after my 2nd interview asking for a 3rd.
This position is 5 hours away as I am looking to move into the area, the company is putting me up in a Hotel before the interview to check out the area bring my family…etc.
Also telling me to charge meals to the room, before the interview I am going to get a tour afterward, and its going to be a panel interview, with various VP’s regional managers, no big deal.
My question is they are now checking all my educational backgrounds, and wanting to phone some references, long story but I never gave any. I only provided a letter of recommendation from my last boss. I’m not worried about them finding anything everything is great, just wondering if this is a really good sign for me, as I think it is.
Hi Lauren!
Sounds like you did really well. No way to say for sure whether you actually will get the offer, but from my experience that does NOT sound like a brush off.
Sometimes it takes longer than expected to get everyone’s feedback (hospitals are notorious for this), but hopefully you’ll hear something by the end of this week. (If not, a polite e-mail or call to the recruiter is fine.) Hope it’s good news!
Best of luck, Lauren. Fingers crossed for you. Please let us know how it goes. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi
I had a job interview with a big hospital. It was several interviews over the course of an afternoon. A week later, they scheduled a follow-up interview with the 2nd in command who had been out of town when I originally interviewed and returned to work two days before they scheduled my foll0w-up. I thought it went well – she didn’t ask very tough questions and most of the stuff she said with the skills required to do the job is – I have heard or I assume you are a good writer, a good researcher, etc. b/c of what others told her or what was on my resume. At the end, I asked some questions and, with regard to several of them, she noted they were great questions.
Afterwards, I met with the recruiter who guided me through all of my interviews to debrief. He told me they were meeting that afternoon and hoped to make a decision that day and he would call me at latest the next day. He also said, “I was surprised at the number of qualified applicants, but you are a notch above the rest. That is all I can say and I will be in touch.” And he squeezed my hand and we parted ways.
I still haven’t heard (it is the next day). Do you think this was a good sign or a brush off? Thanks!
Hi Justin!
Thanks for the kind words. As I say at the end of the post, I pretty much had to stop answering individual questions to preserve my sanity, but I certainly don’t want to add extra angst to your own sanity! So here are a few thoughts…
First…congratulations. Obviously you impressed them. Good job.
Odds are there really is at least one other top candidate. Of course, there’s no way for me to know or even guess the relationship or what role this particular HR person is playing. All you could do was give it your very best, which you did. After that, it’s really not interpretable from what we know. Sorry. Wish I had a better crystal ball, but mine seems to be foggy at the moment. 😉
What I can say is that you have a good chance of getting it, especially considering the feedback you’ve gotten. And if you don’t get it, this is a great opportunity to keep your contacts warm – meaning thank everyone, let them know you were really interested and still would love to work there, etc. And stay in touch every few months with the person you connected with the most.
But hopefully, you’ll write soon to let me know you got it after all. Fingers crossed.
Good luck, Justin!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
First of all, great info on this blog!
Just like most people I’m feeling some post interview anxiety. I am currently employed and have been working in the specialty foods industry for 2 years out of college. I started in quality management and shifted to an account executive role.
I have been applying to other food industry manufacturers to get into the corporate quality fields, because that is what I have an educational background in.
I got a phone interview with a contract recruiter for a large CPG firm. It went well and she basically scheduled my next interview on the spot. I went on-site and had a panel interview with 4 managers and potential colleagues. 3 days after that the recruiter had contacted me and said that the team was very impressed and thought I would be a good fit…..But the next step is to interview with an HR business partner over the phone (since corporate headquarters is out of state).
The day before the third HR interview, my references were contacted and said they had given great comments about me. So now I’m thinking the 3rd interview is a formality and we can talk salary, benefits, etc.
The interview was 2 days ago and was a grilling hour long session of similar behavioral questions from before. I answered all questions with confidence and similar to the previous. I thought I did well, but she sounded very confidential when speaking to me. HR said they would contact me in a couple days. I asked if I was a finalist, she said all I can tell you is that I have an interview tomorrow.
My question: What is HR’s role so late in the interviewing process? Is it standard to say that there are more candidates even if there isn’t. I’m kinda goin crazy…
Good luck to everyone here in search!
Hi JD Sports Interview! I wish you much luck. Glad this blog has helped. Just use your common sense, be yourself while showing enthusiasm for the job, and help them see you have a cooperative, responsible nature.
Ronnie Ann
Reminder of New Work Coach Cafe Policy:
Although I had to stop answering individual questions (to preserve my sanity), as always your thoughts and stories are VERY welcome here.
Hey there,
first of all your ‘guide’ is amazing. its helped me alot before my interview (which takes place tommorow).. As im only 16, this is just for a part-time sales assistant.. I just have a few questions:
1. What should i were :S?
– the shop is very casual/sporty but i dont want to go in underdressed. but then again i dont want to go in to much overdressed.
2. What do i need to take for the interview?
– on the phone, she told me not to talk anything but i dont want to come in underprepared.
3. Should i go into my interview early?
– Its scechualed (i dont know how to spell it lol). for 11:30, but i dont want to go in like 10 minutes early, but i dont want to go in with only a few minutes spare.
4. What would the interview for a part time job be like.?
– I get the feeling that this is for a full time job (your guide above), i dont think i would need to prepare a presentation or a resume (which is what?). Would it just be answering/asking questions regarding the job?
Thats all really.. please could you try and try to get back to me by tommorow about 10:30 pleaseeeee ?? it would be grately appreciated.
Thanks
Thanks for filling us in, AdvertisingAsh. I have my fingers, eyes and legs crossed for you. 😉 And yes…I should have remembered to mention that sometimes employers get so many resumes, they simply unlist the job. Glad you added that so others can learn from your experience. PLEASE keep us posted.
Good luck!!!
Ronnie Ann
Thank you so much Ronnie Ann –
I got a call back. I called the recruiter at 11:30AM Thursday and left a message saying that I just wanted to base because I noticed the job was no longer in their system and that it raised a red flag for me. I noted that I would call her back later in the afternoon and requested that she give me a call in the interim if possible. At 4:07PM I had not heard back so I called her and left a short and sweet message. I thought about not leaving a message but I did say I would so I did want to show my diligence. She called me back at 7:30PM from her cell phone. She had been out of the office for a few days and apologized for her lack of communication. She says I should hear next steps this week and that she will be scheduling yet another round of interviews with me and more VPs. I have a feeling this one will include the CMO too! Yay!!! I will keep you updated. Oh and she said they did have to take the job off their boards because of the number of applicants.
I’m so sorry Lisa and Advertising Ash, but I have to stick to my new policy of not answering individual questions – at least not the way I used to. If I answer all the nice people who write to me, that would include everyone! 😉
Some quick thoughts: Lisa…you seem to be taking the right approach. A place that won’t listen isn’t for you anyway. Come prepared with hard copies of those references and stay positive – you’ll get to the right job. And don’t be shy about asking people who know how good you are for leads if you can.
As for you AA…you may have lucked out. Could be something fishy going on. Or it could be tech problems. Or…you could have the job! Your best bet is calling the recruiter. Hope it’s good news. If not ask why you didn’t get it, stay in touch anyway with execs you met, and use yours frustration to redouble your determination to find the right job for you. Don’t worry…you’ll get there. 🙂
Best of luck to you both.
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie Ann –
I need you 🙁 I wish you were still answering emails. I will try anyways 🙂
I have been in b2b marketing for six years since I graduated college. I was contacted by a HR recruiter at a very reputable supplimental insurance company a little over a month ago. I went through a phone interview with her and then she went on maternity leave. A new recruiter then contacted me and told me that the first recruiter thought I was overqualified for the existing job and they were taking a new strategy of building a whole new marketing team. After that I had a phone interview with two VPs (Marketing and Channel Development) and then after that they flew me to their corporate headquarters to meet with 3 VPs, the EVP of HR and a girl my age that I would be working with. All went well. The EVP of HR sent me a reply to my thank you email and stated “I’m sure Talent Acquisition will be in touch” and the last words from my recruiter were “I’ll be in touch very soon. I am already getting amazing feedback from your interviews this morning.” That was on the 19th. It is now the 31st and I just logged into their job board site. They have removed the job description from the site and so my status is that “I have not applied for any positions.” Sniffle sniffle – what do you think? Is this a lost cause. I am going to call my recruiter tomorrow – I have to, I can’t wait. I am hoping it is a mistake that the job has been taken of the system. Very strange cause they have postings all over job sites that now go to a dead link…
Your feedback would be so appreciated.
Hi Ronnie Ann!!! I have a question. I had gotten a management position last August……..my first one! YAY!! However, I got fired a week ago. The quick version of what happened is that I had to discipline a nurse who had worked in the dept for like 20 years (she didn’t get written up or anything I just spoke with her). She just got mad and threatened to quit. I then called another manager and asked if I had done the right thing and she said yes. Then I went to the Vice President who said the same thing and said I should tell the doctor who was the dept head just in case she did quit. So I went and told him and he got VERY angry and told me I should have ignored whatever she did because she’d worked there forever. I told him that I wasn’t going to treat her any different than I treated any other employee (and I had 43 employees). He told me that she had worked there for 20 years and I’d been there 7 months so she’d win over me. He then went to my boss and said he refused to work with me and I got fired. So I got fired for doing my job!! So my question is, how do I tell about this in an interview? It’s hard to get around the fact I got fired since I was only there 7 months!! Other doctors from the office called me after this happened (they called on their own) and told me they were very upset that this happened and that they thought I was doing a great job and they were very happy with my performance. They were not asked their opinion on the subject…….nor were any other of my employees…….which also made them upset. They each gave me their phone numbers and said to use them as a reference. So I know I wasn’t doing a bad job when only one out of eleven doctors complained!! Any suggestions how I should go about this in interviews? I didn’t want to lie just in case one of the doctors mentioned it when called as a reference. I did tell one place the story and told them I was able to get even more references from the doctors telling of my job performance, then told them about the positive things I had done in the dept. However, this morning I had a phone interview and told them the basic story, then went on to the references and positive things, but they wouldn’t let up on the story, so I think I ended up bombing the interview because they wouldn’t let me tell them anything good I did!! So now I’m scared that I’m just going to mess up all my interviews and I want to get back into management. I loved my job!!!!! HELP!!
Thanks Liz. Hope your mind is at rest by now. You sound like a lovely person and if this job doesn’t come through, please know in your heart that the right one will!
Good luck. 😉
Ronnie Ann
Okay that’s a shame, thought you were gonna put my mind at rest haha 😛 but yes sanity is important!
Nevertheless thank you for the reply, and good luck with your blog, I’m sure judging by people’s reactions to you, you’re advice will be sorely missed :p.
P.s, just like to say I admire what you have done here, not many people will stick their necks out for complete strangers :).
Hi Liz!
As you can see at the end of this post, I had to stop answering individual questions to preserve my sanity!
I wish you luck, but agree that you should use this interview to learn from and get out there and really ace the next one.
Not sure about thank you notes elsewhere. Does anyone else know?
Ronnie Ann
Hi!
I have a few questions…
I attended an interview today, and I don’t feel that it went great since I hadn’t researched the company *face palm*. Of course with hind sight I’m absolutely kicking myself. But was it vital that I researched and will it be detrimental to my application that I didn’t :(?
Another thing is one of the guys who were interviewing me said as he showed me out of the building, ‘there were 87 people applied, and you were one of eight who got an interview, although we haven’t scored up yet, if you don’t get the job don’t be tough on yourself as you did well to get this far’ sooo…. basically I didn’t get it? >< Those damn words are echoing in my head now!
Finally, are ‘Thank You’ notes an American thing? Because in England I’ve never heard of doing such a thing…
Thanks!
Hi to all my readers!
If you’re waiting to hear back from an interview, I’m so sorry. I know how hard it is. 🙂 In the meantime, you might get some comfort and maybe even a smile from my latest post:
I Got the Post-Interview Temporary OCD Blues!
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Tim!
Thanks for sharing that with us. Of course, there’s no way to know if that’s her standard interview routine or she only says it to people she’s actually interested in. But I’ve got my fingers crossed for you to get the job.
Best of luck! Please let us know. 😉
Ronnie Ann
I had an interview today and it seemed like it went well. The manager asked me questions about different situations and what I would do if something was to happen if I was put in that situation. She then told me about the uniform and the pay, then she had me fill out a availability sheet. I was told I would be in contact within a week about the job. I have no idea that since she mention the uniform and pay to me if that means anything or not as far as me getting the job.
New Policy: I finally had to stop answering individual questions because, as traffic continued to increase, I was getting way too many to keep up with and stay sane. 🙂 Believe me, it was a tough decision to make, but my only other choice was to close down the blog completely – which I did for a while. But thoughts and advice from my readers are most welcome. I always wanted it to be a place where we help each other. So please feel free to add your comments or share your own stories!
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Sorry to keep writing with updates. This one sort of threw me this afternoon. A former boss called me out of the blue basically giving me a job. Once I talk to her boss, it may be pretty much mine for the taking. I’ll talk to her boss on Monday to determine things and I know they’ll want an answer pretty quickly. How do I handle all of this with the *other* company taking their time. At this point should I call the *other* company to tell them this?
Like the weather here today… when it rains, it pours!
Happy Holidays!
Kathy
Sorry…it was sent before I could write anything…
In any case, about the interview: first, I was contacted by the company’s HR department and had a telephone interview which went well. Then I was scheduled to come for an interview to the HR department of the company and meet with a person who had a higher position there. After few days this interview was cancelled and I was told that when my resume was sent to the hiring manager he wanted to speed up the process and let me come for an interview straight to the company, which I thought was a really good sign. So few days later I was scheduled an interview with 3 people and the unusual part was that I had to meet with each one of them separately for an hour. So, they allotted 3 hours to the whole thing. I wasn’t sure why they couldn’t just sit together on the same interview, but again, I thought it was more of a good sign than a bad one. But then it may be just a standard procedure there. So, all in all I think the interview went well with all three of them, especially with the first 2 people. Though it didn’t last 3 hours as was planned, it lasted for about 2:15 – which I think was pretty good.
At the end they didn’t ask me whether I was interviewing for other companies etc, but I asked them about further proceedure and when approximately I can expect to receive some feedback from them. And the last person I spoke with said that it’s really HR that takes care of that, but he’ll talk to them and they’ll let me know. Again nothing specific was mentioned and of course he said that they are going to almost 3 weeks of Christmas vacation….so it might take some time.
I had a really good feeling about the interviews, but this last part does raise a few doubts. They also didn’t ask about the salary, but that was already discussed at the beginning with the HR person.
So, what do you think about it all?
Thank you!
Trish
Hi Ronnie,
Hope all is well with you…
Well, as I mentioned last time – I am back in the arena and need your opinion on the interview I’ve had today.
Hi again Kathy!
I can so understand how frustrating this is, but I think you might want to back off now. I don’t think you can help yourself by e-mailing again and you might come off as over-anxious and maybe even “high maintenance”. Believe me…they remember you!
Your best bet is to just wait. Prepare yourself for the strong possibility this might go over into the new year. Many things slow down during this end-of-year time, especially hiring.
Find some parties, volunteer, watch classic holiday movies…or whatever it takes to get through this time and stay sane. 🙂 Then, the week of January 5th (assuming you haven’t heard from them yet), send a nice Happy New Year’s e-mail (or a real card timed to arrive then if you prefer), and simply say you are looking forward to the possibility of working with them. Other than that, it’s in their hands now.
Good luck! I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
It’s been over a week since my last contact with HR at my “dream” company. I was wondering if I would becoming a nuisance if I emailed them again to quickly follow up – or if I should just suck it up and wait. If I do email or call it would be late Thursday or Friday. I am going to give the the benefit of another couple of days. Yes, the wait is killing me and having Christmas – then New Year’s – on the horizon I’m all the more anxious!
~ Kathy
Exactly! 😉 At least the HR rep kinda sorta promises to let you know fairly soon. (Remember again, time is different on the OTHER side. 🙂 )
Fingers crossed. Hoping for good news “soon”. Please keep the updates coming. We’re rooting for you, Kathy!
Ronnie Ann
Quick update…. I received a note from the HR rep this morning, this is what it said.
“Thanks Kathy. I was out on Thurs and Fri.
We are still going through the interview process and hope to have an update within the next week.
I will reach out to you very soon”
Another week without really stressing, just sort of stressing… right? 🙂
Hi Dan!
Thanks for sharing that with us. Pretty exciting indeed. Now THOSE are signs an interview went really well!! 😉
Fingers crossed for you. This sounds very hopeful. Please keep us posted.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks for the update Kathy. You’ve done everything you can. Now…we wait. (I add myself to your supporters of course. 😉 )
Her response shows me she is a considerate person; I know people at her level who just let these things sit. Other than that, I can’t say for sure that it’s a sign of anything, but it certainly lets you know you may still be one of their top candidates.
Good luck! I eagerly await your next update. Hope it’s good news. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Mary!
Fear not! Your question is on another post: Stuck in the Waiting Game After 2nd Interview. It’s one of the first on my list as soon as I get a chance to focus on answering my Work Coach Cafe comments – probably tomorrow. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie,
Did you get my question I posted last night? It dissapeared.
I had an interesting interview experience with a larger company here in town. I went through three interviews in two separate days (hiring manager, another manager and the person who is currently in the role). I am going through an outside agency’s recruiter to get this job. The recruiter called me last Monday to let me know that they wanted me to come in and meet with another team manager (on a team they work closely with). I had a couple of questions about what to expect for the recruiter. The recruiter calls me back in about 20 minutes and says that the hiring manager will call me later on in the day to fill me in and answer any questions I have. So, about that time I was feeling pretty confident. Then, two days later I had the interview and the person I interviewed with said he had no doubt that I could handle the position and would relay his (positive) feedback to the hiring manager (who will be back in the office next week). As I left the building he said that “I think we’ll be seeing a lot more of you”. Pretty exciting.
Thanks, Ronnie Ann! I left the HR rep a voicemail and followed up with an email. I also sent emails to the women that interviewed me and (to my amazement) the SVP sent me a very polite email back less than 20 minutes after sending mine.
She said this: “Thanks for your interest Kathy – it was a pleasure to meet you and we will keep you informed on the process.”
I hope this is a good sign. I’ll keep you posted on how this progresses!
Hi Kathy!
Thanks for the kind words.
First…YES! It’s ok to contact them after two weeks. Saying you just want to let them know you are still very interested in the job and was wondering if they could tell you your status is perfectly acceptable. In fact…a call might be just the thing. It reminds them how wonderful you are. 😉
And I agree that they showed enthusiasm, so all the more I would call rather than e-mail. It can’t hurt. If you can’t get anyone “live”, then by all means a polite e-mail would be a great idea.
I have my fingers crossed for you, Kathy. As I like to say…go git ’em grrrl! Please let us know what happens.
Good Luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Great blog! I had an interview with a high-profile company in the area 2 weeks ago (before Thanksgiving) and the HR rep mentioned that I was one of 3 candidates and they were hoping for a decision this week. Since I was the first they interviewed, do you think I can follow up today or tomorrow with the “polite email” asking for a quick status. I don’t want to appear over zealous, but I do want to find out where I stand.
Also, during the interview and meeting with HR I got some interesting feedback. The HR rep and Director wanted to know if I was looking at other companies. I responded to the HR rep that I was looking around and she wanted to know immediately if I was offered a position to call her. The director I guess was making chit-chat while waiting for the SVP to interview me.
I’m just hoping that since I was the first candidate and the HR rep seemed so enthusiastic about knowing if I was offered other positions I hope this means that I was top on their list. I am really anxious because I have been out of work for over 5 months and Christmas is right around the corner…
Any advice?
Hi Kunal!
Yes. These are all very good signs. Still no guarantee that you will get the second interview, but sounds like you did very well…the best anyone can do.
I’m glad you mentioned your credit, since this is a bank position and they would be doing a background check. But the fact that you are so honest is points for you. I think you came across as very real and sincere. All good things. (FYI: If they do have a policy against bad credit, then not telling them would only have looked worse for you since they do check.)
The fact that the branch manager gave you such good feedback is hopeful. I have my fingers crossed for you, Kunal.
Good luck! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
I had an interview with a bank yesterday evening. My interview lasted a good thirty minutes and I was told at the end of the interview by the branch manager I did well. It was for a customer service supervisor position and he said that right now I was one of the top candidates. I also was honest with them from the getgo regarding my credit( as my credit is bad in case they check it). He said he has one more interview next week and I should hear back mid next week as this week he is in class. We didnt talk about salary but he did say if I am called in for a second interview it would be with his boss and that it would be at the branch. Is that a good sign? Also, when I asked him questions about him personally in regards to his career, he kept on saying good question. Are those good signs?
Ah! My misunderstanding. So sorry. Thanks for clearing it up. In that case…go git ’em!
Best of luck. Please let us know how it turns out. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
It wasn’t reposted several times – forgive me for this misunderstanding.
The first time it was posted was in July. It had been renewed a week after I went to my second interview.
I will be giving HR a call on Wednesday – I am also considering calling the hiring manager.
Thanks!
Hi Nate!
Hmmm…an interesting situation. Normally, I’d tell you that two weeks is not a long time to wait, especially when you interviewed with people at the level you did and there may still be others in the second round of interviews.
But a few things you say did cause my left eyebrow to go up just a bit. The fact a company re-posts an ad sometimes just means they are looking to get more candidates. (And yes, possibly the renewal was already arranged). I recently did this even though we already had the person we wound up making an offer to. But, of course, it could also be just what it seems…they simply haven’t found the “right” person yet and that’s that.
Still…the fact that they’ve been posting this job since July (how many times have they re-posted?) and they have other positions that also re-posted (have they also been running them for a long time?) makes me a little concerned.
If this is an expanding business…great. If they are a legitimate, well-run company that you feel good about…no problem. But this can also be signs of high turnover or other potential problems. If you’re not sure they are solid, some of these things could be signs of a company you want to stay away from. (Maybe do some research if you haven’t already.)
But…assuming they are solid and my slight concerns are not an issue…then the best I can tell you is they are probably not 100% sure they found the right person yet, but you might still be in the running. It wouldn’t hurt to send your main contact another note – or even better call – just to warm up the connection with a polite question about your status and a renewed reminder about your enthusiasm for the position.
But meanwhile…I would be continuing your job hunt full force. It always pays to keep the energy going until the right job says “Yes”.
Good luck. Please let us know if this one turns out to be that “yes”. And if not…fingers crossed that the next one is even BETTER. 😉
Ronnie Ann
Hi all,
I came in for a second interview two weeks ago and I am waiting on a response. I sent a thank you email out to the hiring manager on the next day and I sent thank you letters to all the managers that interviewed me a few days later.
I noticed that on a job posting site (Yahoo Hot Jobs) it seems that the job was re-posted a week after my second interview. I do not know if it is automatically updated though.
Just as a side note, the individuals that interviewed me were all VPs – I don’t know if this reflects the extent of the wait time, but I thought I would add that all the same.
I also noticed that other positions they had posted were re-posted again – so I don’t know if this is used to screen for more applicants and keep interviewees in a holding pattern or if its a weeding tool to get a fresh batch in and sever the ones that already interviewed. The original posting was in July.
Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Awww! Thanks for the kind words. Makes me feel good to read them. And it’s always a good thing to take time to feel the feelings. So now that I’ve given you a few days…are you at least starting to see the possibilities?? 😉
I know this is hard. We all know…and feel for you. Just know in your heart that you WILL get there!
All my best, Trish. Look forward to hearing what you come up with.
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie! It’s such a comfort to know that I can spill out my job worries on you . You are by far my best Internet discovery 🙂
Today, I feel a bit down….tomorrow I’ll start collecting the pieaces of myself and face the world.
Trish
Hi Trish!
I’m soooo sorry. You really did hang in there and I’m proud of your for that. Sometimes there just isn’t the right fit no matter how hard you try.
Although a whole month is a LONG time, I’ve known people who’ve gone through this and you can get through. At the very least, think of it as an opportunity each day to practice professionalism and patience. 😉
But this can also be a wonderful time for you to get the wheels in motion for that next job. You will feel a LOT less uncomfortable if you focus on the future and what can be and not what isn’t. Hope that makes sense.
Put all your job-hunting skills into high gear. Network. Tell everyone you know. Join Linked In. Contact former teachers or schoolmates. Are there people you’ve met during this job who you can meet with for advice? Check the local papers for any places that might be hiring – even in a tough economy places do hire. Line up a temp job if you have to.
Even sit down with your boss and make sure you clean things up enough to get a good reference. This is the time to be gracious. Soon, she’ll be history – but her ability to provide a reference won’t. And, crazy as this sounds, if you have the guts, you can even say “I know this didn’t work out, but I think I’ve learned a lot and I’m going to try my best to find a job that matches me better. Do you have any suggestions?”
Now, she might be so shocked she says nothing (and you lose nothing in the process), but you never know what might come out of her mouth.This is a time for you to be bold and positive and try every angle you can! You only need one thing to work out.
Of course, brush up the resume and cover letter. Find names to directly send them to and don’t just rely on advertised jobs – although you want to take advantage of that too. And also use this time to think about what you can do from day one on the next job to help make sure you succeed.
I have all the faith in you. Put your mind to the future. I’ve had many jobs that didn’t work out. But down the road, something better always came along. Your only job now (besides finishing where you are with the best attitude possible), is to find that one “yes!”
I’m sorry you’re going through this, Trish. But in the end, that job wasn’t the right one for you. Here’s hoping the next one will be! 🙂
I know you can do it, Trish. I’ll be here for you. Good luck.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Hope you are doing well as always…, I am not so great I am afraid…
These past 6 months have been a bit tough on me. The relationships with my boss were very strenous and she seemed to find fault in everything I did. The feeling I got that she simply couldn’t stand me and had abolutely no patience for me. I won’t go into details, but today I’ve been told that my 6-months contract will not be extended. Yet, I still have to come to work for over a months…that’s just seems to me like an awful experience.
So, it seems I’m back into the job-hunting arena…Oh Lord!!!!
Whatever you’d like to comment would be highly appreciated..
sincerely,
Trish – a bit desperate….
Hi Ran L.!
Congratulations. That’s a very good sign. No guarantee that you’ll get the offer, of course, but it tells me they are definitely considering you for the job. Not all companies do this, but it’s not uncommon.
Remember to send a short, typo-free thank you note if you haven’t already. It helps leave a good impression and, depending on how you word the note, it lets them know you are very interested.
Best of luck. Please let us know it you get it. We love to celebrate good news!
Ronnie Ann
I had a job interview with a great company, all past interviews with previous companies went
great. For some reason I was pretty nervous
that they noticed it. But in the end they talked
about my present salary and asked how much
would I want if asked to work for them. Does this seem good to eveyone. I never had this happen!
Hi guy tate!
Great analogy. I agree it would be wonderful if interviewers gave some kind of hint. I have to tell you that I do, at least when I’m sure. Quite a few times I’ve interviewed people who I knew weren’t going to make it to the next round, and I actually explained that because of x, y and/or z, they might not be selected and then I told them their strengths and also added a few hints for next time. I know it’s not standard and a lot of companies might not even want me to do it, but I’m with you and think it should be a more open process.
Best advice I can give you is to stop going over everything you said or did. (Easier said than done, huh? 🙂 ) It’s almost never the things you think you did “wrong” that matter. It’s usually the whole way you present yourself and how positive and natural you are. Even if you flub an answer, if they think you’re a good fit, that’s what they’ll remember.
Good luck, guy tate. Hope you find a great job that matches YOU!
Ronnie Ann
Hi again xrt!
You have the right attitude. I know this takes time, but if you keep positive and show them you are a hard worker and very much want to be part of the company, I am betting you’ll get that “YES!” Don’t forget to try universities. They deal with visa issues all the time and can be excellent employers.
Good luck!! Please let us hear how it goes.
Ronnie Ann
It’s one of the worst feelings, waiting for an HIV result is as bad!
I’m so bad at overanalysing everything and jumping to negative conclusions to prepare myself for the disappointment. I wish employers would adopt a policy of giving you at least some likelihood of success at the end of the interview. It would save so much wasted time and anxiety.
Great article though, thanks.
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thank you so much and I definitely will keep you posted. I am still applying for other jobs and have two interviews this Thursday and Friday. I have the similar visa issues that someone else has already mentioned and I need to find a job before March 2009 or else I will lose my legal status here in the United States. Sometimes when I talk to the future employer regarding sponsoring my visa, I am not sure whether I am misleading them that what I need is a not a job, but only a sponsorship. I get frustrated that I do not know that they rejected me because I did bad in the interview or just they do not want to sponsor. I think I will keeping knocking every possible door and do not give up easily.
Hi xrt!
While I can’t tell you exactly what he’s thinking 😉 , the fact that he asked if you were interviewing elsewhere is a good sign. He just wants to know the likelihood of you still being available when they do decide.
Again…it’s no guarantee you’ll be “the one”, but to me it shows definite interest. You must have done well on the first round. Please let us know what happens.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Hi,I have just completed an interview and I have some questions regarding the mix messages the interviewer sent. He told me that I should be able to hear from them in 2-3 weeks since they still have other applicants. However, meanwhile he asked me whether I was interviewing with other firms. I am very confused by the messages he sent. Does he like me?
Hi again Shelly!
Nice going! Sounds like you could be in the very enviable position of being offered two jobs in the near future. (Sh! Don’t tell anyone, but that just happened to me last week.) If you do wind up working for the first company, that HR Rep from Canada deserves a big thank you!
Now to your questions: First…I’ve heard some companies have rediscovered the art of personality tests. I’m not a big fan of them, but they do seem to be the rage in some circles for helping find either matching or complementary personalities. (Meaning some companies like similar types and others look for compatible diversity.) And of course, sometimes they’re just used to weed out potential “problem” personalities.
As for the IQ test or whatever…that kind of threw me. Have to admit I’m not familiar with that, but I’m not up on some of the latest tends (although if it really was an IQ test and not just some other form of personality test, this sure feels more like a throwback to me!). No way for me to know their particular purpose for using them. Not worth worrying about. If they reject you for this, you wouldn’t want them anyway!
As for the woman who gave no feedback (sounds like a bad novel), not to worry. True, it could be that she didn’t take to you, but some people are just like this in an interview and it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t get the job offer. It may be her real personality and it also may be her interview persona to see how you react.
Might as well wait and see whether the offers come, and then I suggest you use your gut and whatever cues you picked up during this interview process to help you decide.
Thanks for the update. Good luck, Shelly! Keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann!
I wanted to thank you again for the advice for the interview I landed two weeks ago! I’m still actively being considered for the position and both of my interviewers stated they loved my commitment and determination to be a part of their company and stated how its not every day their HR Rep from Canada tracks them down to interview someone, so that advice realllyy helped! I’ll have a final decision from them, good or bad, by the end of the week so I’m impatiently waiting and hoping for good news!
In the meantime, I interviewed this week for another position I applied to before this one. I seem to be the queen of interviews, now if only I can translate that into job offers, that would be great! This position was with a smaller local organization and is newly created, and sounds like a dream come true if my interview with the global corporation does not result in a job offer.
Anyway, the interview that I had this past week went well but was slightly unconventional from other interviews I’ve been on. I met with one of the higher employees in the organization for the first part of the interview and we seemed to hit it off instantly and I was able to provide her with some solid examples for questions she asked (after answering the same interview questions for what seem like a million times in the last few months, I’ve managed to make them sound good! haha) The second part of the interview involved a personality test and what I thought was very similar to an IQ test, which I thought was a little off-putting but I approached it with an open mind set and completed the test. The third part of the interview was with another employee and did not go as well as the first. There was very little back-and-forth conversation, though I did try. I provided detailed, specific answers and she offered no feedback non-verbal or verbal that she liked what she was hearing or not, so I really couldn’t read her.
Because I was still really interested in the position and she seemed to be in a rush, I offered at the end of the interview to leave a copy of my portfolio behind for her to take a look at her convenience so that would assist in explaining what I covered in interview and she happy to accept the chance to look over it.
I’m sending a thank you note out today. I just wondering if these kind of test are the norm these days? And if having a standoffish interviewer automatically means you’re out of the running? I always appreciate your help Ronnie Ann, it has gotten me very far in my search so far!
Thanks so much,
Shelly
Hi Lisa!
Great to hear from you. Glad the new job is going SOOO well!
I don’t have any posts (yet) on how to interview people, but I really like that you want to make it a good experience for the interviewee, having so recently gone through a grueling process yourself.
My best advice is to find a way to put them at ease from the beginning. If they seem stiff in their answers, smile and say something that shows you understand interviews can be a bit nerve-wracking.
Mostly, you want to get to know the person, so it’s fine to use the old annoying questions like where do you see yourself in five years and what are your greatest strengths or weaknesses. Let them know you know these are well-worn, but you’re still curious how they respond. (Coming up with your own take on these might help.)
As a general format, you might try asking them to tell you a little about themselves at the beginning and then close asking if they have any questions for you. All the rest comes in-between. 😉
Your style can help put them at ease, so be warm and real. And if they give short answers, draw them out. Ask them to tell you more. You want to hear them talk and see how they think and basically get a feel for what they’d be like to work with on a daily basis.
Ask why they want to work at this particular place. Ask what an ideal work environment and/or work day would be for them.
Ask questions that help you see how they react in an emergency or how they’ve added to a work environment by improving things or by helping to solve problems. Pump for specific examples if they don’t offer them. Ask about how their co-workers and/or boss would describe them.
I think you get the idea. Main thing is to get them talking. And if they don’t make eye-contact, try to get them to do that. It’s sometimes hard for people especially when thy are nervous, but it’s important for you to get a feel for the person.
And of course, you want to ask about their skills and knowledge of the things you need them to know and be able to handle.
Usually I prepare a list ahead of time. While I don’t follow it exactly after all these years, it’s good to have in front of me in case I’m at a loss for the next question.
In the end, your gut will tell you if someone feels right for the job. If their answers sound right but some internal signal goes off, ask more questions and be sure to do extensive reference checking if the time comes. Trust yourself to know who has the right stuff and whom you really want to work with.
Good luck finding the right person, Lisa! They’re lucky to have someone who remembers all too well having walked in their shoes.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann!!! I’m back!!! My new job is going GREAT!!! I actually got a higher management position than I realized!!! I’m actually the department head and have supervisors under me!! WOO HOO!!! That was a HUGE jump up for me, I got very lucky!! However, my question is this…….I’ve been to many interviews, but I’ve never done any. I have my first interview set up for an RN position in our department. Do you have any articles about what to look for when interviewing someone? I’ve looked online for some questions to ask, but I didn’t know if you had any other advice on how TO interview people……..cause now I’m on the other side and I want to make it a good experience for the people I’m interviewing!! Thanks so much!!
Hi Ryan!
Although there certainly is a chance you didn’t get the job, it’s important not to count on an exact date as if it were set in stone. Interview processes have many layers and can be delayed for many reasons, including holidays, vacations, sickness, and urgent projects. All kinds of things pop up in daily work life.
There’s still a chance they simply haven’t made the decision. I know waiting is hard, but give them until next week. Wait until Tuesday (Mondays can be hectic) and then call. Be as positive as you can, just saying you’re wondering about your status. Keep it simple.
If you get good news, well…you’ll know what to do! If they tell you that you didn’t get the job, be professional and thank them for the opportunity to have interviewed. At least you’ll know one way or the other. (Unless they haven’t made the decision yet.)
And remember, if it’s a no, send an e-mail to the CEO thanking him and asking if you may stay in touch. Worst he can say is no. Worth a shot at establishing a relationship that could pay off down the road.
So please give yourself a vacation from worrying this weekend, ok? Next week is soon enough to start up again. 😉
Best of luck, Ryan.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Thank you for the response. That helped a lot for all us job seekers.
As I mentioned earlier, I was expecting a call today from the company with which I had been interviewed. I did not get a call nor an email. Should I make a mistake similar to what I did the last time of calling them to find out what happened? Or should I assume that I have not made it and move on? This has been very depressing that I did not get a call from them as they had promised as what decision will be made will be made final by Wednesday i.e. today. Please advice me as I am in a fix and did not expect this waiting game to go this cold.
Thanks in advance.
Well, Ryan…that’s kind of you to think I’m the right person, but truth is I’m not an expert in that area.
You’re right to bring this up as an important issue. Personally, when I find a job on the internet, I do my research. Of it says it’s a corporation, I check to see if it’s listed on any stock exchange; in the U.S. they must file with the SEC. Of course, private companies have different filings that I believe are not public. I also check their website and see if it feels legitimate; some websites, of course, are set up to legitimize fakes so be careful.
I check for newspaper articles or PR releases or any trace of their being a real company. I also do separate searches using the name of the company along with each of these words: problem, caution, phony, fake, careful, illegal, scam, hoax, indicted, and investigation. (You can come up with your own, I’m sure.)
If they tell you the name of the head of the company, do a search on him or her too. The internet can be your best ally when it comes to investigating a company.
You can also contact the Better Business Bureau and maybe even local government or the local attorney general’s office if you need more information. Better to be safe than sorry.
Other clues can come from what they promise you or any special deals they try to make. If they want to pay you off the books or try to get you to do something that doesn’t feel quite right, trust your instincts and walk away. If they are willing to cheat the government or competitors pr evade the law, they can just as easily cheat you.
If you have any suspicion they are not legitimate, stay away. Hard as it is to get a job, it’s worse to work for a place that is deceptive. And if you aren’t sure, ask to see their annual report or any published information about the company. If they smell fishy, don’t bite!
Use recruiters if possible and go to company websites yourself to find the real ads. Companies, government agencies, educational institutions and non-profits all usually list their openings on their websites. Also, contact people you know or former teachers, employers, etc. to network and seek out your own jobs. It takes more work, but it’s well worth it.
Also, here’s a link I found that offers a bit more advice – especially about sending money:
Beware of fake job offers, internet scam
I also want to remind people NOT to give out personal information like social security or bank account numbers. Only if you get an actual job are you required to provide a Social Security number.
Thanks for the excellent question. Hope that helps.
Oh…and here’s the post you inspired:
How to Tell If a Job Listing or Job Ad is Fake
Good luck, Ryan!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Thanks a Lot for the advice and it was VERY nice of you for the much needed quick response. I will definitely let you know what happens with the result whatever it may be. That was helpful and I appreciate it. Thanks for the wishes too!
There is a much more disturbing problem when it comes to job search. There are a LOT of fake jobs being posted out on the internet and are there any fool-proof techniques to weed out the fake ones from the genuine pool of jobs? It is being a very tough time for most job seekers at this point of time with just a couple of months before the hiring season will come to an end in 2008 which might pick up again only after mid-January. Any advice on that? (I’m sure you are the right person to answer that).
Hi Ryan!
No need to be anxious. You didn’t screw up by calling. As long as you stay polite and matter of fact, it’s ok to call. Although, in the future, try to wait a little longer. Believe me…with the impression you made, they remember you. 😉
It’s a holiday weekend plus end of month and that often delays decisions, what with people on vacation or deadlines to meet or whatever. So no surprise the answer will come next week.
Also, remember when you call, the person may be on another line and that’s why they didn’t pick up.
Just relax. You’ve done all you can…and you’ll know soon enough whether it’s you, the other guy or someone else.
Try your best to enjoy the long weekend. Nothing you do now – especially worrying – will help the outcome.
Much luck! I hope the answer is yes. PLEASE let us know, Ryan. My fingers are crossed for you. Oh…and if for any reason you don’t get it, e-mail the CEO thanking him for the opportunity to interview, tell him how much you enjoyed meeting him, and ask if you may stay in touch. Little things like this can go far.
Ronnie Ann
Hi JJ!
There’s really no way to know for sure, but odds are it’s the second thing you said “Or maybe they just weren’t sure because they were interviewing others for the position.”
Sounds like you were real and engaging and someone they knew they could enjoy working with…key things in any interview. (As long as you also convey seriousness and commitment to doing a good job, of course.) I like that they sent you out on the floor. A good sign.
Basically, you’ll know soon enough. In the meantime, keep the interviews going even while you wait for this. Sometimes something even better shows up while waiting. (Plus it keeps us busy while waiting to hear back from the other interview. 🙂 )
Good luck JJ! Please let us know. It would make me happy to share in the excitement of your first job!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
I attended an interview for the position of a Mechanical Engineer. I have an MS degree in the related field that I was interviewed for. Everyone with whom I spoke during the interview were highly impressed by my resume and my presentation. The CEO of the company himself seemed very interested with my profile. All this took place on Monday, Aug 25th, 2008. I have sent a thank you e-mail to everyone who interviewed me. I was told that a hiring decision will be made by today (Friday, Aug 29th, 2008). Hence I called up from my number and HR manager did not pick my call and so I didn’t want to seem anxious and hence didn’t leave a voice message either. I tried to call from my home phone after a while and the HR Manager picked my call and I asked her if the company has made a hiring decision yet? She put me on a hold for about a couple of minutes and said I will get a call by Wednesday Aug 3rd 2008 either way(selected or not). Did I do a mistake by calling up from another number? Or should I have not called at all in the first place?
I also got to know that they had interviewed another person in the final round. Do you think this call incident will give the other guy an upper hand over my chances of getting the job? Is this something to worry about or am I just being over-anxious?
hey,
ok so I had a job interview the other day at a clothing store… and I thought it went GREAT!
I walked in 5 minutes early and they took me straight to the person who was doing my interview. Another employee sat in on the interview and we all got talking and were really friendly, they loved my answers and although I have no previous work experiance that didn’t seem to bother them… They asked about the places I shopped and we had so much in common. They even sent me out on the floor to get some hands on experiance and see if I’d like working there. I feel that I did a good job with that and gave it my best. I got along great with the other employees. However, at the end of the half hour interview they walked me to the front of the store and said “it was great to meet you”. No mention of a call back, or letting me know when they will have made the decision. Should I be worried? Or maybe they just weren’t sure because they were interviewing others for the position as well…?
Hi Sarai!
Apologies for the wait. Work schedule hectic. 🙂
Meanwhile…all of this sounds normal even in it not following any normal pattern. You seem to have done well. Don’t worry about how the process worked for others. Each time is different for many reasons.
Hopefully you’ve already sent your thank you note(s); if not, do so immediately. If you are concerned and it’s been a couple of weeks, it would be fine to call and see where you stand. A polite call is just a nice follow-up.
I wish you much luck, Sarai! Please let us know how it goes.
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie Ann,
After reading your article, I feel relieved about my interview.
I originally applied in early July and went in for an accessment test the next day after completing the application. There were about 11 other people there testing and throughout the test, a lot of people were told they didn’t need to finish the test. Only myself and two others in the group remained and actually finished the test (one of them being my best friend). After I tested, I was told I’d be called in for my interview (wich she referred to as a second interview). A week went by, then two and finally a month so I assumed I didn’t get the position.
I was a bit depressed until, out of nowhere, I received a call asking me to come in for an interview. I was delighted. They didn’t call my friend who completed the assessment at the same time as me and that further led me to believe they were seriously considering me for the position.
Well I went in for the interview today. I arrived 15 minutes early and didn’t get interviewed until 30 minutes AFTER my scheduled time. The interviewer explained that she usually has help and the person helping wasn’t in today. She apologized for the delay. By the time she started my interview, her next applicant was already there waiting.
The interview went well and she even have me paperwork to fill out and a dress code and behavior manual. We got along great and seemed to be in synch with each other. It was the behavioral interview questions and I’m confident that I did extremely well answering my questions. She seemed interested and even asked follow up questions regarding the outcome of several scenarios. After that she told me the hours for the shift and even told me what my starting salary would be. I even had the time to ask her a few questions of my own. At the end of the interview she told me she’d be forwarding my information to the actual hiring manager and I’d hear something in a week. (she said probably less than that but at most a week).
So I think the interview went well and I really want this job. I have an older sister who works for the company and she said that’s how it went for her, but I also have another friend who works there and he said he was immediately scheduled for the second(technically third) interview on the spot.
My question is: since it took so long for me to get called in for an interview (about a month) even though I was told a week, should I expect the same with this?
And secondly, should I be worried that I wasn’t scheduled for my second interview immediately?
Thank you in advanced for any advice.
WUHOOO! Welcome to the wait club, Dreamer! Great news. I love hearing things like this. Thank you for the update.
Fingers, eyes, and legs crossed for you. The best of luck having your dream come true!
Ronnie Ann
Hi again Ronnie Ann,
I did call for the email addresses but I needed the last name for one of the individuals; so I called the one person on the panel who’s number I had and guess what? After he gave the name he goes, “Oh, we want you to come in for another interview; we passed our recommendations to the Director and you were …. our recommendation. (he may have said “one” of our recommendations but I was smiling so hard I can’t recall.) He said they’re just trying to see about his schedule and will be calling me to set something up soon!!!! I really want this job and pray this works out. So, yes, I’m joining the “wait club” and am hoping for some positive, good news to report soon!
Hi Dreamer!
Great news. It sounds like you did really well. You may not be the only candidate they liked, but I’ll bet you were one of the top 2 or 3.
Get the e-mail addresses from your friend. That’s not stalkerish at all. It shows initiative. We all do things like that.
As for their different responses…this just means they aren’t sure of the process and the last one was letting you know it will take as long as it takes. No way does it reflect on what they think of you.
Time for you to just join the club and wait. I hope you’ll be writing with good news in a week… or two…or whatever. 🙂
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
*I last posted May 2nd. **warning, this is kinda long…
Hi Ronnie Ann! I’m baaaaacccckkkkk!! After that last “low ball offer” event, I kinda slowed down job searching for a few weeks. Now, it’s August and I’m back on the grind again. I was called to come for an interview last week; the interview took place today. I interviewed with a panel of three individuals in different levels of the organization. I was told I was the first of nine other applicants they planned on seeing today. Of course, I had the normal nervousness but I feel I gave good answers to all the questions that were asked. There was one question asked that I didn’t know much about , I gave the response of: “I haven’t worked in that particular field as yet but as a professional in the position you’re looking for, I feel I have the experience and can support any organization regardless of the mission”. The interviewer who asked the question said, “good answer” and admitted he didn’t have experience in that area either!?? At the end of the interview when asked if I had any questions, one of the questions I asked was how soon were they looking to fill the position and how long before a decision would be made. One of the ladies said, “We should know by the end of the day”, the other lady said, “well, HR has a process so we’ll probably know by next week”, and the third individual said, “… we should know for sure in a week or two”. What the heck was that about?? Did they not want to comment since they did have a few more applicants to see? Anyway, in closing I told them I appreciated their time they’d spent speaking with me and despite all of my nervousness, I felt they made the experience a good one. By the time I left they were all smiling and even asked if I had any suggestions on how they could do better! This was NOT asked in a condescending way; I think a couple of the panel members were almost as nervous as I was except, they have the job already! Of course I told them they did everything perfectly. The main point of contact walked me to the elevators and once out of the room with the others, he said in a lowered voice, “Nice job”. Now, I’m not naïve enough to think I am the only person he said that to today but it sure felt good at the time. However, the various responses to the “when will I know who gets the job” question makes me wonder and makes me a bit doubtful. AND I want to send “thank you” emails to the three panelist but I only have a phone number for one of them! Do I call that one person and ask him to “spread the word” or would it seem “stalkerish” if I asked a friend who works for the company to send me all of their email addresses? (she’s no where near the branch I’m interviewing for but she does have access to the email database…?? Your advise please?
Oh Shelly. I’m so sorry. Believe me, energy doesn’t count against you; it’s a good thing. But remember to focus that energy on the people who are interviewing you, listening carefully, not thinking ahead but just being there in the moment.
You might find some of my past posts such as 15 Things I Look for When I Interview People helpful. You can find them on the right-hand side of my blog under Popular Posts.
But mostly, it only takes one “yes” to get there, but you often have to go through a LOT of “nos” first. Let each one motivate you more. I like your determination. Shows me you’ll get there. 🙂
Good luck.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann, just wanted to send an update. I found out Friday the committee selected someone else. It seems I have bad luck finding a job I like and tons of luck getting offers for jobs I don’t. So many places have cited the fact that I’m “energetic and determined” in their rejection letters that I’m starting to think this is a bad thing. I don’t know if my energy is counting against me or the fact that I’m a recent graduate. But I plan on continuing applying for and interviewing for positions I want and hopefully someone is bound to say yes!
Hi Shelly!
I wouldn’t worry about the application mix-up. You handled it smoothly. And very glad the interview went so well. You really never know about those “out of reach” jobs. My motto is: “Sez who?”
You’ve had quite a bit of contact with them already, so I think you might want to back off a little and wait until at least the end of the week. Let’s see if they come back to you before that. If not, a polite e-mail at that point would be fine.
I love that you got this far, even if it winds up being a no. (Hope not of course.) Helps raise what you consider in reach!
Good luck, Shelly. Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Just sending an update on the second job interview I went for, the one that was slightly out of my reach but something I really wanted to do. Well, I had my interview last Tuesday, August 5th and like always, I assumed it went well. I was interviewed by three people, the President, the HR Director & the person whose place I would be taking. I provided them with thorough answers and gave what I thought was detailed yet precise answers on different scenario questions in my field. While I am new in the working world, I have had many intensive intern positions and feel like I knew enough to excel at this position.
Well, they were very nice and interested at the interview, asking questions about when I could start and what materials would I need to accomplish the projects I wanted to. We wrapped up the interview, and I left feeling confident. A slight mix-up happened and I accidently took my formal application with me. and received a message from the HR Director that day telling me to call her back in case she lost or I still had it. Having already arrived back home (which is about a 45 min drive from the company), I tried calling her back twice and received her voicemail both times, so I tracked down her fax number and faxed over a copy of the application.
Following that, I sent a detailed thank you note. They informed they would be making their decision by the end of the week and with no response by Friday, I sent her an e-mail late Friday afternoon. Well, it’s the end of the day Monday and still no response. So, should I assume this is a bad sign, that maybe the application mix-up had something to do with? or should I wait it out a little longer and call later on in the week?
Thanks,
Shelly
Oh Amber! THANK YOU for letting us know. I love hearing things like this. Great advice for all of us:
“It was very challenging for me to give up that disappointment and keep moving forward.”
So important for people reading this to know that sometimes if you let go of what didn’t work, you open up to what might even be better.
Thanks again for writing. All the best!
Ronnie Ann
Just an update to the post above where I was upset regarding not getting the local “perfect” job I was hoping for. Well, I didn’t get that job. But I did get a job offer for a position that is a really good fit professionally (even if it isn’t quite as local). I just ended my first week there and so far it has been great!
So I just want to thank you for your help and advice during that trying time. It was very challenging for me to give up that disappointment and keep moving forward. Yet once I did and continuted applying and submitting, well, it has since worked out.
Hopefully this will be encouraging to other job seekers out there who find themselves in similar circumstances.
Thanks again!
Amber
sorry about the double post! for some reason…the server cut out half of what I wrote the first time
Hi Ronnie Ann, just wanted to send an update. After the university rejected me about a week and a half ago, I was hopeful but still somewhat discouraged. Their rejection letter was vague, so I requested the interviewer pointers on why I didn’t get chosen for the position or if she felt I should continue pursuing something in this field. She ended up answering promptly and stated that while they liked me they felt I had too much personality for a job that required me to sit behind a desk and research all day, which confused me because I never thought having personality was a bad thing and because researching is one of my favorite pasttimes! (yes I’m a slight dork sometimes, I can admit it!) So I took a break from job searching for a few days and re-evaluated what I wanted out of a job.
I recently applied to a job more suited to my abilities and my “personality” that would be incredibly fun and challenging and what I thought to be slightly out of my reach.
Well, today I received a phone call telling me they were really impressed with my resume and scheduled an interview for next Tuesday! I’m so excited. I hope this time around has a better ending than the last one!
Hi Shelly!
First…I saw the double post and deleted the one that was cut off. Believe me…I know how cantankerous servers can be!
As for the new interview…wuhoo! It always pays to risk applying for an exciting job even if you think it’s out of your reach. Now you can use that terrific personality to wow them. Would be great if the turn down from the other job turns into a best-thing-that-ever-happened-to-you in the new job.
Good luck. PLEASE let us know what happens. Fingers crossed for you.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Jonathan!
Talking about personal things is a way for a potential employer to get to know you a little better and helps create a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good thing – especially if you talked business also – although no guarantee of an offer.
It’s standard for the various interviewers to discuss the candidate afterwards and see if they all agree. What the interviewer told you was a good sign, but until you actually get the offer and pass their background check, it’s not a done deal.
Still…all in all…sounds like a very good interview. I’m hopeful you’ll hear some good news soon. Please let us know how it goes.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
I had an interview today for a PC Tech job and it seemed to go great. We not only talked about the usual questions, but we talked about cars and personal life. I was wondering if that was a good thing or a bad thing? Also, when the interview was coming to an end one of the interviewers says “all thats left is you will have to come in and take a drug test and do a background check, which you should have no problem with that” followed by we will contact you after we talk with each other about this. just wondering how this sounds Good or Bad?
Hi Drew!
Interesting about the other company. Only if you were on the inside could you figure it out…and maybe not even then!
Wow…you have another option besides the out-of-town job? A nice position to be in. Sounds like you have a realistic strategy. Thanks for letting us know.
Good luck making the decision that’s right for you. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Just an update. The company that I was turned down from earlier this week just posted the job again. However, it is a low position then before. I do not know if the really know what the want. I do have another invite for a position in my current town. I will have to commit to the place out of town, but can turn away before I actually have to start if needed.
Thank you for the support!!!
Awwww! Sorry it was a turndown. But wow…they really did handle things quickly. So different from my university experience! 🙂
You have a wonderful attitude, Shelly. I agree…the right job is out there waiting for you. And I hope you let us know when the magic happens!
Thanks for filling us in. Good luck finding the magic.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thanks for your great advice. I actually arrived home from work today to find an envelope with the university’s logo on it which I knew immediately wasa bad news. It was a very simple form letter rejection letter stating that the position went to someone who better fit the qualifications and position, which hurt to hear, but if a company doesn’t want me for a position then I’d rather wait for someone that does.
So I’m a little discouraged but I’m still optimistic that things that are meant to be will be! So hopefully I’ll hear some good news when the time is right.
Thanks for the help.
Oh Lisa. This is GREAT news. Wu hoo!!!! And that increase in pay. YES!!!!
Thanks for letting us know. I love hearing good news. And especially after that other interview…soooo happy for you. I had such a good feeling about this one.
All the best! Uh oh…one more coming…WU HOOOO!!!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann!!! I got good news today…..I was offered the job!!!!! YAY!!!!!!! I’m so excited…….and they offered me even more money than I thought which is a plus!! I got a $22,000 raise from my current salary!!! WOO HOO!! So now I just have to go through a physical, drug test, TB test, etc. to finalize everything before I can give my two weeks notice. That shouldn’t be a problem though!! I’m so excited!!! I finally get to move up another level!! :o)
Hi Shelly!
Of course, anything could have happened and it’s always possible they made the offer to someone else, who will either accept the job or pass.
But just to give you some perspective, I’ve worked as a consultant to various areas within a major university, and you have to think of it as kind of the opposite of dog years. Two days anywhere else can equal 2 weeks in a university!
So you may not be out of the picture yet. Decisions, approvals, and sign offs from other departments take time. It could even take a few days to get approval on a salary, since often a separate area makes that decision.
So just feel good about giving the best interview you could. (Sounds like you did very well. ) And settle in for the wait. Could be you hear from them by the end of this week. Could be next week. Could be a few weeks. It’s all possible.
The main thing for you to know is that not hearing back in a few days – even if they say they need to move quickly – is evidence of nothing.
Hope you hear something soon. And HOPE HOPE HOPE it’s good news! Please let us know. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
I found this website after many hours of stressful waiting to hear back after an interview and was wondering if anyone had someone advice on what to do in this situation I found myself in.
About three weeks ago, I received a phone from a local university regarding an interview for a position with them. I was extremely excited about getting a callback because I sent my resume in about a month before and was still waiting to hear something back. The interview ended up being a panel interview with four people, which surprised me because I wasn’t made aware of that before. However, I guess I overcame my nerves well enough and gave them answers they liked, because they called me back three hours later to schedule the second interview! The receptionist who made the call made me aware that only three candidates were moving on to the second interview to have a quick (less than 30 minute) meeting with the supervisor.
The second interview went really well (or at least I thought it did) , I had a lot in common with the supervisor, felt like I provided her with detailed answers to her questions and asked some questions of my own. She kept listing me the benefits of the job and how things run around the office and how my office would look like and things of that nature, so I was extremely confident when I left. I realized once I got home, that I forgot to get her e-mail or address to send a thank you note but I had her full name, so I looked it up on the staff directory and sent her a thank you e-mail later on that day.
She had told me in the interview that they hoped to have a decision by later on that week because they need to replace the position quickly and it’s been a burden that it’s been open so long. Well, last week came and out and all I received from her was an e-mail response to my thank you note saying it was great to meet as well and they will contact me soon, which two business days later, they still did not. I’m not sure if I should get my hopes up about this or just take their silence as the fact that someone else got the job because they wanted the new employee to start as soon as next week or the one after.
anyone have suggestions on what I should do from here? should I send an e-mail or wait awhile? or just consider it a lost cause and keep job searching?
Hi Heidi!
This is WONDERUL news. Thanks for letting us know.
Background checks usually look for things like outstanding warrants, unreported criminal activity, citizenship status, and anything else that might go against what you told them on your resume and application. But if you have nothing to hide, no worry. It’s pretty standard.
Congratulations and good luck in the new job!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
An update I got an offer and should start toward the end of the week, after the back ground check. By the way what do they check…not that i have anything to hide.
Heidi
A few more thoughts…
In case there is any part of you that REALLY doesn’t want to take the new job apart from the move or maybe because that is just too hard, think about it carefully. I don’t like to feel forced into something this major. Only if you see opportunity for yourself, I would think.
And if you turn this down, can you ride it out for a while longer where you are? Can you maybe find another group to be part of where you are or would that be impossible?
On the other hand, since you know references might be problematic, maybe that’s a sign to just move on. You have an offer and a new chance to start fresh.
Just random thoughts. Good luck making the decision that is right for you!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks, Drew, for the additional information. While you may never know what really happened, I want everyone to know that people do ask around if they know someone at your current or former company. But since it’s off the record, no one will ever admit to it.
Again, this may not be the reason, but I can see that you have excellent analytical skills. 🙂 The thought that you were actually turned down solely because you were “too elaborate on my answer” is a little hard for me to believe, so this may very well be the real story. Still, it could also just be their way of saying, after due consideration, there wasn’t a good fit. I’m sorry.
The good news is, you have an offer. And I hope it works out very well for you.
As for moving, I’ve done that quite a few times in my life and I agree it can be hard. But I never regretted it. The experience is priceless. And you never know who you wind up meeting or what new opportunity comes along that would never have been possible where you are now.
All the best Drew. If you can, let this one go and look to what you can make out of your new adventure. Even the hard stuff can pay off. I am living proof of that! 😉
Ronnie Ann
I had a after thought I wanted to ask. I talked to the VP of HR and she said I was too elaborate on my answer. I work for the Big 4 and everyone know each other. I am very good at what I do. I have a Sr. Manager that, well, is not a nice person. She was very mean to one co-worker when I started, so that person quit. The next co-worker was her target, he quit. I was the only staff, and the next target. She put me on a performance eval. Her comments were not correct, which I had e-mails to verify that. HR did not say much when I brought that to their attention. Anyway, my company does some work with the place I was turned down at. I cannot help that there were some conversations–off records sort of thing going on. The new job woul be great—I meet and finalized this week, but it will still be a hardship to move.
Oh Drew! I’m so sorry.
It really is confusing. Unfortunately that’s why the first line of this post says the only way to know for sure how an interview went is when we get the offer. (I guess there’s always a small chance the other person will turn it down. Not that I’d count on it.)
I hope you can just chalk it up to the wrong match for whatever reason. You never know when these things turn out to be a blessing. I’m hoping that this other job – even though it requires a big move – brings with it many good surprises you never imagined!
Good luck Drew! Thank you for letting us know. Please drop by again when you can tell us how you’re doing. I’m hoping to hear lots of good things. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hello again–I just found out that the VP of HR is in the process of writing up an offer—-but not for me. I am really confussed as to why I was not given the offer, as I was the only brought back for second interviews. I really do not want to take the offer I did get, as it means a big move. But I am with the Big 4 now and they are nuts there!!!
Thanks,
Great! Sounds like you’ve handled everything very well, Drew. Nice that they took you to lunch. Very good sign.
Fingers crossed for you. Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks!! I did tell the VP of HR that I did have another offer and needed to confirm with them this coming week. I stated I do not know how far I am on the list, but wanted her to have this info. That is when she said that I was the only one invited back for second rounds. I meet with one person I did not meet with on the first interview. Then I was taken out to lunch with the other two I interviewed with. Not a lot of questions, more general talk. But it went very well. Thanks
Hi Drew!
Wow! Congratulations of having one offer already and another one on the way…maybe.
Although I wish I could tell you it’s a done deal, truth is it all depends on your references, background check, and any of a number of other possibilities – including how you did on the second interview.
If it went well, there is a very good chance you’ll get the offer (assuming references, etc. are good).
Did you tell them about the other offer? If not, even if you already sent your thank you note, you can contact the VP of HR and explain that you really want to work there but got another offer that you need to respond to. You can then ask, very politely, if there’s any chance they could let you know within the next few days (or whenever you promised to get back to the other place.) Very often, they understand and try to work with you.
I wish you much luck getting the job you really want! Please let us know how it turns out. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi, I just complete a second interview this last Friday. I have one job offer, but the job I interviewed on Friday is my dream job. I talked to the VP of HR and was told I was the only candidate brought back for a second interview. Does this mean I will get the offer???
Oh Lisa! I’m so happy you wrote to tell us about this interview. You know by now I don’t pull any punches, so I have to tell you what I really think…
I think this went great! Nice going! Of course, when the match is right, the interview usually feels right too. This is almost opposite of the feeling I got from that first interview you wrote about. I like the way these people treated you, and, even as busy as the doctor was, I like that he took time to come say hello.
Very hopeful!
Of course, anything is possible in the world of interviews, and I certainly don’t want to give you false hope…but yes Lisa…this was a really good interview.
Bummer about the distance, but I’m a believer that things work out when we need them to. And if you get the offer, I know you’ll make it work!
I’m crossing everything I can cross in polite company. 🙂 All the best of luck! PLEASE let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann!!! It’s been a little while since I’ve written, so I wanted to give you an update!! I didn’t get any of the management jobs I interviewed for, but still kept on looking and trying!! Recently I had an interview for a management position and the first interview went great. I met with the HR rep for about 20 minutes, then met with the person who would be my boss for an hour and a half. Then they called me back and I got a second interview!! YAY!!! I had that on Friday and I think it went really well!! I was to meet with four different people, so I met with the current person who had the position and we got along great. The interview with her was for her to ask me some questions, but also for me to ask questions about her position. The weird thing is she’s actually still going to be in the department…….she’s just going to be dealing with the new patient records software…….so if I get the position I’ll actually be her boss. Then I met with one of the doctors who was a really great guy. He said he hates interviewing so we basically just chatted. He told me when they were choosing someone and that even though he didn’t have the final choice, he does have some say and he said he likes me!!! He then told me I interview really well. So I guess I know one of the people really liked me!! He’s the person in charge of the doctors, but he doesn’t get to make the final decision of who’s hired. I was supposed to meet with one of the other doctors, but he ended up running late with patients, so he stopped by, said hi, and shook my hand. I was then taken upstairs to meet with the Vice President of the department. The current manager took me up there and then she stood there and chatted with me a bit about non-work stuff. The interview with the Vice President went well also, he was very nice. So I think I might have a good chance!!! The people in the department seemed great, and I really liked the woman who would be my boss. She seems like the type of person who just lets you do what you need to do, but is still there for you. The people who work there have been there for awhile and they don’t have a lot of turn over which can mean a lot in a medical office. Many times front office jobs have a lot of turn over. I also like that the current manager will still be there. Since she’s been a successful manager, she will be a great resource!! The only thing that’s yucky is that the job is an hour away from where I live…….so with gas it will cost me like $400 a month just for gas!! BOOO!! But I can always possibly move if need be…….I just love where I live! So anyway, I just wanted to update you. I think it went well, what do you think? Keep your fingers crossed!!! :o)
Thank you and I will let you know.
Hi Heidi!
So sorry about the layoff. I like to think these things lead us to new adventures, but I know that doesn’t help pay the bills. Or make this unexpected job hunt any easier. Let’s see if I can help a little.
Yes…it was definitely a good interview. And very good news that the Controller mentioned (and she repeated) that you made a great impression. So very good so far.
The fact that she still has to interview two people and told you that means you do not have the offer yet. Anything can still happen. Maybe the Controller was impressed by the others as well as you and that’s why they’re being interviewed. (Although there’s a chance from what you tell me that you may be the favorite at this point, but I am only guessing and don’t want to mislead you.)
But…you are definitely in the running and, if they are able to follow up on what they told you, within a week or two you should know the answer. Now, if you’ve read other comments here, you’ll see it can take longer than they say or than you would wish for them to actually get back to you…but from what you tell me, there’s a good chance they’ll be getting back to you fairly soon.
And if I read between the lines, although there’s no way to know for sure, I’d bet you are one of their top 2 candidates. And so I am hopeful and give it at least 50-50 that you get the offer.
I know that’s not the same as telling you it’s in the bag, but you do have a very good chance. And, if for any reason you don’t get it, please know that this shows you interview well and that puts you ahead of a LOT of people out there.
Good luck, Heidi! PLEASE let us know what happens. I have my fingers crossed for you.
Ronnie Ann
I was looking for how to tell if a job interview went well and found your website.
here is my story and if you can give me any insite I would appreciate it.
I am being laid off so I have not been job hunting in years, and I hate it. But enough of that.
I had a second interview today with a major hotel chain. The interviewer told me that the Controller that had interviewed me on Monday was really impressed with me (she told me that twice). The interview went as normal and we discussed the job and benifits. We had long time of personal talk. She asked if I had any questions and I asked about the training and she began to tell me about a person that was filling in until they found someone for the position and that this person would be doing the training. She told me the dates when this person would be there. I told her that I would love to work for this company. Her reply was that they would love for me to come to work for them. I told her that I thought this company was a good fit. And she agreed. Then she said she still had two other interviews. She told me that the controller was out of the office until the beganning of the week and they would be making their decission the first of the week. As she walked me out to the front she I said so I should hear something the first of the week and she replied you will hear from me real soon.
So my question is does this sound like a good interview and a maybe a job offer? Or did I make some major mistakes? I have been out of the job market for so long I just don’t know. Thanks
Well, first of all, since the name of this post is How To Tell If a Job Interview Went Well…I have to tell you, Brad…it went really well! Congratulations!!
WUHOO!!!
You are in an enviable position, even if it doesn’t feel that way right this minute. Your current job seems to have a lot going for it. The main drawback you mention is that they haven’t been forthcoming with raises and promotions – at least until now when they fear they may lose you.
Note: I would NOT advise most people to go out and get another offer JUST to pressure their current bosses. Why? Because while sometimes that works, other times they simply say “buh bye!” So a person has to be prepared to really leave if they do that. Plus it can leave a bad taste in a future reference’s mouth.
BUT…you didn’t do that, Brad. You went looking for a better job, found it, and now have a decision to make.
While of course I can only offer suggestions – unfortunately you have to make the decision yourself 😉 – I will say that you have nothing to lose by asking your boss to sit down with you ASAP and have an honest talk about your future should you stay.
Let her know why you’re thinking of leaving and tell her you’re not sure how to guarantee that, if you do stay, this wouldn’t happen again. Tell her you really like the company and the people, but are looking to advance and would like a real career track – and up to now, that hasn’t been the case for you. Then just look her in the eyes and say “Do you have any ideas how we could make this work?” And stop talking. See what she says.
Are they willing to guarantee you anything? What kind of career track, if any, are they offering? Would they be willing to put something in writing? Or are they just paying you more to do exactly what you do now with no hope of promotion. What would make things different this time?
Then, with that added info, you’ll have to look inside yourself and see if you really believe they’ll be different from now on. (Corollary: Is it possible you also need to be a little different somehow?) If your gut tells you they will, it sure sounds like this is a place you feel good about in almost all other ways.
BUT…if all they offer you is the same money and no guarantees or encouragement…or if your gut tells you this may be a dead end no matter what they tell you now…well, then I think you have your answer.
As for the job offer…can you negotiate some better conditions (like at least occasional telecommuting) either up front or later on? And even more than that…are you more excited by the possibilities the new job offers and the things it can teach you – even if the environment is not as good? Is there a possibility it will grow to be friendly and just as good – or better – in other ways? Or is there something really special where you are that goes beyond familiarity and normal workplace friendliness?
Unfortunately, the decision is yours – and it’s a tough one. But the first thing you can do is make sure you’ve explored the possibilities where you are as openly and directly as possible. Show them your strength, your desire to advance, and your willingness to do what you have to to make that happen. And see how they respond.
Then, armed with that extra info, make a list of the pros and cons . After you’ve done that, notice which list you are trying to think of more items to add to. Or which list calls to you more no matter how long or short it is. Usually that’s the one you really want. 🙂
I know this is tough, but with all my heart I would wish this dilemma for all my readers! The good news is…I don’t think there’s really a bad choice for you, since there are more pros than cons for each. But I know there will be one that calls to you more than the other.
Good luck making the choice that feels right to you! And PLEASE let us know.
Ronnie Ann
Note: I made this into a post, so if you want to follow the comments there check out:
I Got the Job Offer and My Current Job Countered
Hi Ronnie,
I really need your advice.
So the offer finally came through Monday morning. I was boarding a plane on a business trip and they called, and sent the written offer which I recieved the next day. The offer is exactly what I asked for no more no less.
When I got back home on Thursday, I called my boss to give notice, shortly after I got off the phone with her and she had time to talk to the more senior management, she called me back and told me that they would like to make a counter offer. I also began getting calls from other management w/in the company telling me that to hold off because they would like the chance to counter. I told them what my new deal is, and I got a sence that they wanted to match my new deal.
I am confused and at a cross-road. I have allot of good benifits currently, for example tele-commuting, a freindly environment. There are also some down sides. For example there has not been much upward movement.
In my new job there are some up-sides, it is a career change with new pottential, but the work/life balance is not as good.
I want to celebrate, but I feel a huge decision weighting on my shoulders.
Any thoughts on what people do in situations like this?
Hi Derek!
Thanks so much for letting us know. And thanks for the kind words and whoooosh of karma. I felt it. 🙂
I have a HUGE smile on my face – about the boxes and about the fact that you got such GREAT feedback from the man. I think he really appreciates how real you were during the interviews and how genuinely enthusiastic you are about working with them.
I’m so proud of how well you’ve done! Now it’s out of your hands. So what are you going to do to keep your mind off boxes, background checks, etc.? 😉
You know I have my fingers, legs and eyes crossed for you! Good luck, Derek.
Ronnie Ann
Sorry for my grammar, I’m still suffering from the aftermath of thinking about boxes the entire weekend.
Ronnie Ann,
I had thought over the weekend how I would graciously thank the company for considering me and how I had nothing but good things to say about the manager and VP and the company in general. Got a call today and he told me that he had narrowed it down to two candidates and that I was one of them. I can tell you upon hearing this I believed I was having deja vu and then he told me I just needed to come in sign documents for a background check and that he was very impressed by every interview I had 🙂 I almost fainted and told him that I was thinking about boxes and formulas the entire weekend – OMG you were so right!
Thank you Ronnie Ann for your great advice to us random strangers 😉 If there is actually something called karma, I hope that you gets tons of it back for those you have helped. Woosh, I’ve sent some your way. I hope in return I to one day return I can help someone in need or in a stressful situation from the life lessons I have learned.
Derek
Aaah! Great wisdom, grasshopper. 😉 A perfect plan.
Enjoy the vacation. You earned it.
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie Ann! I hope that you are right in that they are looking at the whole picture and that dreaded spreadsheet is a small part of the equation. Thing is, I had written a similar test at home for them before, so it must hold some significance. In any case, if they do decide to hire me, I intend to do something amazing to show my appreciation.
It’s amazing the type of things companies will get you to do in attempt to accurately gauge a candidates personality/skills. If more people were honest and were truly dedicated to their jobs (not just the ability to demonstrate this in a convincing way at job interviews), maybe benefit of the doubt would occur more often. Unfortunately, the surface is what most see as it is the easy way to think you understand something that needs time to be understood.
I totally agree with focusing on another activity. Gives you time to filter out any unwanted thoughts 😉 For at least a week I’m going to stop the job hunt and pretend that I took a week off work to relax. It’s time to rest the mind, it’s time to recharge the batteries.
Derek
Oh…as for sending the thank you note…I think you can wait at this point. The note you sent reaffirmed your interest with a bit of humor. I think that serves as enough of a follow-up note. They know you respect them and they know you want the job. Plus you showed them the kind of thorough, determined, resourceful employee you would be.
So now…just go focus on something else. You can even search for another job to divert your attention while waiting. Yes…I know you want this one, but (knowing what we discussed) looking at what else is out there – letting your mind run wild with possibilities – is a good exercise for you now. And also do extra things that engage your mind like watching movies, reading books, playing sports, doing puzzles, hugging your girlfriend, etc. You really did a great job so please be easy on yourself. You’re looking at the one small error – I assure you, they’re looking at the whole picture. And it’s a good one.
Thinking positive thoughts with you. 😉
Ronnie Ann
Hi Derek!
Oh man…even I would have been nervous at a surprise test after all those other interviews.
I think you did great in the other parts and that will go far in making them think about all you can offer to the firm. You were very smart in following up with the revised spreadsheet and a short note. These are things that just don’t matter once you start a job because, as you say, these can be learned in a second – or kept on a sheet in front of you. the other stuff – who you are, how you respond under stress, what you’d be like to really work with day-in and day-out…this is what really matters.
No way to predict what they’ll decide, but please give yourself credit for handling the truly important parts – your interactions with the two people – really well. And I am still smiling at the way you used the “what do you want to be when you grow up” story so well – both in the interview and then in the note.
Oh…and the essay sounds fine. You were real and you talked about details. All good.
No matter what the outcome, I believe you really impressed them. And this means, if needed, you can try again should the answer be “no”.
But of course, we’re all hoping that its a big fat YES! Please keep us posted.
Good luck. I wish you all the best Derek. I think you’re terrific. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Got back from my interview and I messed up. They had me do two more tests one written and the other Excel. Although I had all the fundamental formulas correct I messed up big time on one of them. Instead of putting the formula for margin at =100/(1-.10) I put in =100/(1-1.10) which created a negative number. I knew it was wrong so I put in some other BS formula which I also knew was incorrect. I did this only because when he stopped by I told him I was having trouble with the formula creating negative numbers and he responded that that was not good. In retrospect, I should of left it as is so at least he would know that I was on the right track minus the 1 in front.
The thing that is bugging me is the fact that it was such a simple formula and when I got home I found out what I did wrong in a couple of minutes. I guess I just cracked under pressure there being a time limit and all.
I was also asked to write a full page explaining my experience on the way to the interview. I had absolutely no idea what to write and only filled up about 3 quarters of the page. If you read it you’d laugh because I wrote about the temperature in my car and deciding whether to turn on the A/C or not.
The manager would stop in from time to time to see how I was doing so that made it even more nerve racking. I didn’t want him to think I was stuck on such an easy formula. I didn’t know what I was doing wrong at that time, but I knew that the solution was easy.
In the end I was asked questions by the VP which I believe went well. There were a few times that I could tell he was impressed by me as I took your advice and was completely honest. Of course the entire time I could see the manager viewing the spreadsheet that I knew was wrong. Felt like crap obviously but I just tried to concentrate on answering the VP’s questions to the best of my ability with that dreaded spreadsheet in my mind the entire time. Of course he did not know that I messed up on the spreadsheet at that time.
In the end I came out thinking that the VP was sure of me and the manager was not. This is funny because it was the exact opposite in the prior interview.
Funny story, me and the manager were talking in the beginning about bad interviews and I told him about the “what do you want to be when you grow up” story. He laughed about it and without me knowing he told the VP. When I was about to leave the VP asked, “I got one more question, you can answer this standing up – what do you want to be when you grow up?” We all laughed, said our goodbyes and I left.
The drive home I kept thinking about how I messed up as I felt the tests were in no way an indicator of my “true” ability. I don’t use Excel all the time and I forget formulas, nor would it be difficult to refresh my memory if I actually needed to do so. I ended up resending the spreadsheet with the correct formula stating that I knew I was wrong and for what it’s worth that I had reattached a spreadsheet with the correct formula. As a joke I mentioned I wanted to work at ABC company when I grow up.
Boy, that rant felt good to get off my chest. Feel like crap but I guess what is done is done. I’m contemplating whether to send a thank you note to the manager tomorrow as it might be too soon after my “correction” email and I don’t want to come across as too aggressive. I just want this job so much!
What are your thoughts?
Hi Derek!
First…congratulations on being one of the final two candidates for the job. Pretty impressive there, dude. 🙂
And now, let’s talk about a few things you wrote.
First: “I’m trying so hard to think positive.” As opposed to actually thinking positive? 😉 Trying hard is beside the point now. They clearly have two candidates they like and are going to hire the person they most want to work with. I know I’ve said this before, but more than ever this is the time to let go and just be yourself. You don’t have to try to be that – you are that!
Stop working so hard to figure out what you can’t know. Just be yourself. It’s gotten you this far, hasn’t it?
An interview is like being put under a magnifying glass. So they see when you are trying too hard or thinking ahead (and therefore not fully present when they’re talking.) As you also wrote ” I don’t have a clue what to expect.” Exactly. And therefore, all you can do is shake it off for now and trust in yourself.
You’ll either get it or you won’t. If you don’t…it will be ok. And you may still talk them into something else in the future. But if you can just be in the moment, really listen and let them inside to see the real you – the you with passion, and commitment. The you they can trust because you aren’t hiding anything. The you with a desire to be the best employee they ever had – I think you might just be the one they choose. But if not…you gave it your best and no one can do more than that.
So maybe take a few minutes to remind yourself who you are and how much you have to offer, and then go do some fun things. And whatever you do…get a good night’s sleep – maybe telling yourself the night before right before you fall asleep that you are going to give a GREAT interview even though you have no idea what the specifics of that is!
Now go git ’em tiger! And of course…we’re all waiting to hear what happens.
Good luck, Derek!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
My mind is all over the place, so I’ll do my best to stay coherent.
I got a call from the company today and it looks like I will be going in for another interview. =) I was told that they had narrowed the search down to 2 candidates and that I was one of the two.
I don’t know what it is, but although I am extremely happy about being selected, I am really feeling the pressure to succeed. I have never felt the pressure to this degree before an interview but I guess after going through a few and not succeeding, and my relatively long (3months) unemployment, my preinterview confidence has really been shot. It’s this you’ve been here before and you didn’t succeed mindset you know?
Any tips you have to overcome this anxiety? I’m trying so hard to think positive but I’m trying to be realistic as well. Fact is, I know I can do this job well and will do some really great things if selected, but my interviewing skills are terrible because I over analyze the situation too much.
What do you think are the primary things that they will be gaging? I have never had a 3rd interview with a VP and hiring manager before and I don’t have a clue what to expect. I was told it would be shorter than the last. The interview lasted so long last time and I have no idea what else they could ask me.
I guess I just want to be prepared and am really caught off guard as I was expecting the last interview to be the last.
Derek
Awwww! I certainly am happy to see you. 😉
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
I am still here – have to admit I got a little hooked up… 🙂
Trish
Hi again Derek!
Ah. Sorry I misunderstood. I thought you were using “funny” in a kind of annoyed way. My bad. 🙂
Lovely note. I would hire you on the spot – and I know you’ve been here! While I doubt they would ever find this site, if they did…they might think smart guy to ask for advice and get it for free! 😉
Looking forward to some good news. I hope!!!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie. I actually thought the receptionist was really nice and was joking about being upset. I just wrote my thank you letter and it looks like this:
,
Just wanted to thank you both for taking the time to meet with me yesterday. The entire interviewing process has been handled with total class, which to me speaks volumes about your company and staff.
I left the interview more excited than ever, as the dynamics of this position and the core values within ______ strongly correspond with my own:
* A culture that promotes innovation, and truly makes the effort to continually grow
* An ethical mindset based on accountability, channeled both internally and externally
* A role with variety and challenge providing a platform to truly demonstrate my worth, while utilizing my unique skill set
As you can tell, I am eager to come in and contribute. From a revenue standpoint, I have experienced great success working within Sales and Marketing and hope to continue this momentum in an ideal environment.
If there is anything else that is needed or can help to assist in your decision, please do not hesitate to ask.
Kind Regards,
Derek
Now let’s hope that these gentlemen don’t stumble across this site and see all the support and encouragement I have been getting =)
I’ll keep you posted..
Hi GRM!
Congratulations on making it to the next step. I hope your interview today goes REALLY well. I know it’s not the job you dreamed of, but sometimes it’s good to have solid footing and then pursue your dreams in your spare time. No one can stop you from doing that!
Yes…it helps to have lots of stories that you can pull from to match as best as possible depending on the question – since there is are endless number of questions. As I always say…just be fully present, listen, bring energy with you into the room, and most of all, be yourself.
Good luck. PLEASE keep us posted,
Ronnie Ann
Hi Trish!
Just want to say hello. Glad you’re still peeking in now and then even after your exciting offer. 🙂
All the best!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Derek! Sorry for the delay in responding. I was off on a business trip yesterday.
First about that phone interview with the woman from an agency…recruiters want the whole package there already because that makes you easier to sell. But if they had THE person with the whole package, they wouldn’t even be talking to you. So don’t let this throw you.
When someone tells you what you don’t have (after calling you in the first place) just thank them for cluing you in and then, as you’ve done before, talk about what you do have, including successes in one area that is transferable to the other. She is not the decision-maker. She is trying to find out if you can sell yourself to help her make money. Get it?
As for the real live in-person interview…sounds like you did great Derek! The fit could very well be there. I have my fingers, etc. crossed for you on this one.
Thank you notes should ideally go to each person separately. Some version of the words you used would be good to include: “I really want this job and I am itching to prove to them that they made a excellent decision in hiring me.” It’s your wonderful enthusiasm that may trump direct experience for them.
As for your other question…you are asking a good one. Believe me…there are people with many more years of experience that don’t know the answer. Truthfully, depending on the organization of course…anyone along the way (even the receptionist) can influence hiring.
Never assume influence increases proportionately with corporate level. You would be surprised at how these things really work. So the best bet is to treat each one with respect and as if they hold your future in their hands – because they do.
And now, I must tell you something I hope you will remember if you get the job there. The receptionist was teasing you to put you at ease. Some people have a more subtle way of doing it and some are right out there…but there is a good chance you already had good buzz about you and she was just talking to you as if you were part of the team already. Very possible that’s the way she talks to the top guys too. And for all you know…she could be related. 🙂
Treat each person with full respect and give them the benefit of the doubt. I think you were just feeling put off by the other experience and the horrible trip getting there and so maybe weren’t able to smile at what was most likely a friendly gesture.
But all that is in the past. Right now…I can tell you it sounds like it went really well and I hope you get some good news soon. Please let us know!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Derek!I am crossing my fingers for you! 🙂
Just got back from the interview and I think it went good. The phone interview was OK.
The phone interview was with an agency and she started coaching me during the interview itself. She also had this way of talking for me (if that makes any sense) Kind of made me feel the same way I did when I first graduated from university. But as you said in an earlier post Ronnie Ann, she probably had good intentions. She ultimately told me that she liked my foundation and accomplishments but that I lacked hard Marketing experience even though I had touched on it in various points of my career. She told me that I lacked experience relative to the other candidates as well but would pitch my skills to the client.
Bleh. That’s how I felt after this interview.
My trek to the 2nd interview was horrible. Firstly, I lacked confidence due to how the first interview went. Secondly, the highway had a major accident (thank goodness I allocated 2 hrs to get there) and I had to take another exit which wasn’t on my Google maps. Ended up calling my dad for directions and I got there with 15mins to spare. Got there and the receptionist was picking on me. Can you believe this? She was such a nice lady but when I asked about the manager she told me that he was a big buff guy that would beat me up if I didn’t do the job well. Funny. The VP and hiring manager ended up being true gentlemen. Very easy to talk to and the interview lasted 1hr and 40mins! There were some points that I feel I did not articulate clearly enough but overall it went well. Without any BS, there perception on things seemed very similar to mine and I left thinking that they were great individuals. Didn’t get an offer but they said they would get back to me regardless of the outcome. Keeping my fingers crossed! I really want this job and I am itching to prove to them that they made a excellent decision in hiring me.
Hoping it went well in their minds.
I’m curious, if you have an interview with 2 people simultaneously, should I send a thank you email individually or one to them both?
When you have an interview with a VP and hiring manager, who has more influence in terms of the hiring decision.. is the VP just there for input?
Argh, I feel like such a newbie!
Thanks Ronnie Ann.
Later in the afternoon I did get a call from the hiring manager to interview in person tomorrow, so I guess I didn’t totally flub the phone interview!
This is for a job-job, one I’d like to have avoided, but given finances I might have to do it for now. I want to do well regardless. Every interview is practice and a potential future job.
Thanks for your thoughts above; they remind me that I often forget to talk about internal communication issues, which would probably be something a potential boss might want to hear about, so I’ll be thinking about those things today.
I have a large list of potential questions, but I was asked a few that were new to me as well as the standard ones. Some of those were:
You have to deliver bad news – how did you handle that?
Do you see yourself as a leader? (I wasn’t a supervisor so I talked about how I trained people, how the quality of my work led by example.)
Give an example of a time you had to negotiate (influence) with someone. How did you prepare for that?
Describe communication.
What did you do during down-time in the office?
What happened when you promised more than you could deliver – how did you handle that?
How did you exceed someone’s expectations?
I guess one just has to lots of examples ready to pull from tailored to the job.
Thanks again, Ronnie Ann!
Congrats Trish!!! I’m telling you, it’s Ronnie Ann, she has this positive vibe/motivational thing going on 😉 In any case, hope you enjoy your new job.
I have the interview with the VP and hiring manager tomorrow and a phone interview with some other company before this, I’ll let you know how it goes…
Derek
Hi again GRM!
I do think feeling “doomed” may be going just a BIT too much toward the dark side. 😉
You asked a LOT of questions here, but let me cut to the chase. You actually had a good interview. It lasted 40 minutes. If she weren’t interested, she’d have ended it at 5 or 10. She is passing your resume on to the next step. If you hadn’t done well, she wouldn’t even do that. A phone screener only passes on the more interesting resumes; that’s the purpose of the screen!
As for not having anyone to e-mail or send a note to…in this case, you don’t have to do anything. Just wait to see if you get called for an in-person interview where you can sell yourself. You’ve done all you can already.
It would take a personal coaching session to go over all that you ask, but here are some quick answers:
No. You don’t have to have a specific example for every situation they ask about. But you should think about the question and come up with your best answer. It’s good enough to say, as you did, we actually planned well for all our projects and didn’t have to worry about missed deadlines, or whatever. But, if you like (say for the in-person interview) you can also add something like “if that situation did arise, I’d probably meet with the other parties as quickly as possible and figure out a solution. Hopefully planning ahead of time will minimize these occurrences. But I know each company is different and think I am flexible enough to work with those differences. ” (Then I suggest you have an example of how flexible you can be just in case. 🙂 )
As for your statement that you don’t negotiate in your job now…I don’t think I’ve ever had a job where there wasn’t at least some negotiation, even if only in communication and meeting times and…well…a variety of things. Not the formal definition of negotiation, but more the organizational behavior definition. In life, we negotiate all the time. So think about this before your interview. BUT…if their question was specifically about the technical definition of negotiating, then once again, it is fine to just say you haven’t done that formally, and then maybe add that you have ___ (and think of an example where you managed to move something along or get something changed by communicating with another person who had a different ideas or goals than you .)
Often phone interview questions reflect what you may be asked in person, so it’s a good idea to think about all you were asked and practice some answers – in the event you get the call.
I’m going to leave it at that. Please let us know if you get to the next step. There’s a good chance you might because of your skills and what sounds like a basically good phone interview.
Good luck, GRM!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie, this is more about a phone interview I just had (my first ever). It was with the HR recruiter and went about 40 minutes. This is in the field I’ve been in for over 15 years. She asked very specific questions and wanted examples – several of the questions I did not anticipate. In some cases I really couldn’t think of examples, because, for e.g., we never promised more than we could deliver.
Is it OK not to have examples? With another question I asked her to re-define the term she used because I didn’t really “negotiate” in my position. I tried my best, but didn’t always come back with a quick answer – I had to pause and think a bit.
She also asked me twice about my leaving and what I did in the year while not working, and also how long I’ve been back in the state – a question I got in another interview. I was honest, but I feel like this a red flag to them when it’s just simply what I wanted to do and I moved back to my home state. I had left my job abruptly, though the next day stated in my resignation letter that I would be happy to work a month to help train since we had been so busy (they weren’t interested in that). Now I’m worried that my former job will say that I didn’t give two weeks notice – it was a weird situation. But given that I received a big bonus right before I left, it’s not as if I didn’t do my job.
I’m not sure now how to best handle what I think are red flags to them, or mentioning a past job that I had a conflict a supervisor. In this competitive market I feel like they would think “This sounds fishy, why bother?” even though my experience is excactly what they need.
She ended the interview with the generic, “It was a pleasure to talk with you and I’ll be forwarding your resume to [hiring person] and if she’s interested she’ll call you. We have some more candidates to interview.” She gave me only the first name of the hiring person. I said something like I hoped to hear from [hiring person] and she sort of chuckled. I don’t have her email address, though I’m sure I could call to find out in order to send her a thank you email.
Help! I’m starting to feel unemployable. I know I could do better in a face-to-face interview and I’m definitely presentable, but if I can’t get a job in a position I’ve done for years, I feel doomed.
):
Oh Trish! I am SOOO happy for you. It’s been a long road to this day for sure. Thanks for your words of wisdom.
Good luck in your new job. I wish you all the best. And please…let us know how you’re doing so I don’t miss you too much! 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie!
Well it seems like you WON the BET!!!!!!
I got a call today from the HR department and they made me the coveted job offer! I just couldn’t believe my ears. Anyways tomorrow I am getting the contract and I start on June 23. I am so very excited. Ít’s been long 4 months….
I want to thank you for your support and infinite wisdom and good luck to those who are still looking. You just have to believe in yourself and think positive – good things are happening to those who never give up! Just close your eyes and imagine that contract in front of you and you signing it….so when it happens for real you’ll be already prepared 🙂
Cheers,
Trish
Me too! 🙂
Thanks Ronnie!
I TRULLY hope you win this bet 🙂
Trish
Hi Trish!
There are two basic reasons an interview doesn’t go on beyond 30 minutes. One is because they know you’re wrong for them. The other is because they think you’re right for them and just want to make sure no one of importance objects.
Since you were brought back specifically because they met you, they like you and they actually feel you are a good fit for this job…there is a very good chance it is the second reason.
Now I don’t want to get your hopes up too high (anything can still happen), but to me this all sounds very promising. What you see as an indefinite ending, I see as a need not to tip their hand – yet.
I’m assuming you sent thank-you notes already (if not, snail mail notes add a nice touch). Other than that, it’s once again time to find something interesting to immerse yourself in (maybe you can find a 500 page book or a 2500 piece jig-saw puzzle 🙂 ) and…here it comes…just wait. Sigh. I know. I know.
OK. Let’s make this a little more fun. I’m looking at my calendar and betting you’ll hear some good news from them by June 20. Now I know I may be wrong, but I do so love to win a bet! Any takers?
Trish…I’ve been rooting for you for a while now and really hope this is the one. Please let us know as soon as you hear anything. I have everything crossed for you!
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Just a (not- so- short) update:
Naturally I’ve heard nothing from the last irritating interview I had….However, today I’ve a had another interview, a second one, with another company. I have mixed feelings about it – I think it was a very good one. I’ve met with the VP and the interview went smoothly, but it didn’t last very long and by the end she asked me if I had any questions about the role itself and of course I had a few, especially because the first interview was intended for a different role, but then those who interviewed me said that they were very impressed with me and they have another opening more suitable for me and so they decided to forward me for the 2 interview. Anyway, the VP made sure I’d meet today with the direct manager to discuss the job more closely and so I did. The manager elaborated on the job and we discussed it for another 20 -30 min but at the end there was no “will let you know in….” So I asked about the further proceedure. The manager said that they have to receive an agreement from a few other staff members, and perhaps there will be another interview, or maybe not and so that leaves me with an indefinite waiting time….but that if they are interested they’ll contact me soon enough.
I felt very good about the interview….but this indefinite ending did raise some red flags for me…
So, what do you think?
Trish
Hi Amber!
First…congratulations on your degree! Wuhoo!
Next…I have to say how wonderful it is to have readers like Tom (as well as the rest of you) share their perspective. Tom just went through a grueling…at times maddening…search, and he got the job. Yay! It’s lovely to see him coming back to offer tips to people going through what he just did. Thank you, Tom. 🙂
I support all that he wrote and just want to add a few more thoughts:
I love that you are determined and don’t give up easily, Amber. (Helped you get your Master’s I’m sure.) But I know what you mean about digging in so hard you might miss a perfectly good alternative. If that’s your concern, you can still continue to doggedly pursue what you want, and also start to think about other possibilities. Free flow writing is a good way to let your thoughts fly. Maybe something will pop up that offers a very attractive compromise. Ya never know!
But meanwhile…if there aren’t too many choices where you live, I would at least wait another week on this job (I assume you sent the thank-you note already) and send her a polite note saying you assume that you weren’t chosen, but are still very interested in the company and hope they keep you in mind for future openings. (Although I too am a bit creeped out by the kind of testing they use, more and more companies do it now and the best you can do is just answer honestly.)
As Tom says, continue applying everywhere you can think of. Also, look for ways to network. Local conferences and events. Groups to join. Be creative. You might also consider volunteering at some place that helps communities of people you’d like to work with. Not only might you get a chance at jobs that open up, but you make contacts who can offer you suggestions and references.
If money isn’t your number one concern, you might think about a private practice. I know it takes time to build, but are you in a rush? You’d have to of course build relationships with local organizations and institutions (volunteering is one good way to do that) and maybe even offer workshops of some sort. You can also think about coaching. 😉
And here’s one more thought I use ALL the time. The very frustration you’re feeling helps you become an even better, more empathetic counselor. You may at some time help people going through this very thing! And it really does make you better at what you do.
Oh…last point about those interviews. Many interviewers simply don’t give good interviews. They just use the resume, gut feel, and in this case it seems testing. So you really don’t need to push too hard in an interview. If they aren’t looking to listen to your story, don’t force it on them. Your best bet in the case of a non-listener, is to tap into their need to talk. Look them in the eyes and ask them good questions energetically – and listen with all the sincere interest you can muster. That will help you more than any snappy answer!
Hope that helps a little. Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Some thoughts:
don’t worry too much about the late job start…but I certainly wouldn’t tell an interviewer that you didn’t search because you were so dedicated to your clients. Do your best to stay away from negative statements (“didn’t search”) like that. If pressed say something like “I have been searching for a job that I felt was not only right for me but for a job that I could truly add value to. I really believe that this is that type of job.” I’d only say that if you really mean it though. Solid interviewers tend to be able to see through veiled untruths.
Here’s another tip: When you feel an interview is scattered, take initiative and say something like “I am really loving what I hear but I am still a bit unclear about the position. Can you tell me a bit about the day-to-day duties I’d be handling?” That will force them to be pointed and it will make you look interested. If being assertive in a stressful situation isn’t your cup of tea, you may need to step out of your comfort zone a bit. I promise it will pay off in most cases!
Keep searching and trying to get in touch with as many companies/schools as you can. Make it a daily chore. Get contacts, get your resume out. Maybe expand your search radius a little bit.
The final tip I can give is you need to really learn to let these things roll off of your back as best you can. Odds are you’ll not be offered a job after most interviews. It has little to do with you and a lot to do with a single opening for a (likely) large number of applicants. We’ve all been there. That one job we felt would have been perfect for us. Or that one college we would have loved to attend. Or that one guy or girl that we knew was the one. Rejection is hard, really hard. But dwelling on it will only keep you down and impede your search. Use boards like this to vent and get advice and I guarantee you’ll see success sooner rather than later!
Well, I’m new here so let me introduce myself. I am 29 years old and am trying to get my first real “professional” position after graduating this past May. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling.
I have been more seriously searching for about 6 weeks. I know I should have started while still in school, but I have to be honest…I put 100% of my self into my internship experience. I put my clients first…now I don’t know if this was a mistake or what.
I had an interview last Friday for a position that was just about perfect. Within 10 miles of home, 5 miles of my son’s school….in the right field. Pay was good. Just perfect. Unfortunately it didn’t go so well. The interview was scattered. I went on a similar interview about a month ago and vowed I would always leave an interview making sure I had said at least a little bit about myself before I left! (what is it with interviewers who go on and on and don’t ask pointed questions? or talk about their personal lives or go on and on about the person who had the position last?). So I did better on this interview by at least attempting to sell myself and show interest, without sounding desperate of course.
Another thing that didn’t sit well with me was a “personality” test they had me take at the end. I just felt weird about some of the questions. Most were T or F, and there was no inbetween. I found myself wanting to explain my answers but could not. Also, they asked personal questions about my past such as my home life as a child which was somewhat suspicious and uncomfortable for me….
Nonetheless, I thought this job would be ideal for my career goals and work-life balance. I haven’t received a call back yet and don’t expect to. She made it very clear that they wanted someone pretty quickly and that if they wanted me I would be called back mid-week….
Anyway, I’m still searching. It’s just very disheartening to find a job that seems to be such a good match and to have it not work out. Where do I go from here? I live in a rural area without many business that will not require a long commute….I know to keep searching, but it also seems like there are not many places to apply to in my field. My husband has a job that pays well, or otherwise we would consider getting out of MI.
I am a pretty determined individual though. I do not give up easily. Problem is, sometimes I don’t give up on things until way after I should have, if that makes any sense.
I know I’m rambling but I feel sheepish about getting my hopes up and my “heart set” on this job. I am having a hard time letting it go….
The best of luck to you, Derek! We’re rooting for you.
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie Anna,
Grrreat, the interview is with the hiring manager and VP so it’s pretty much do or die. They sent me a few assignments to complete as well.
Although it can be nerve racking, I actually like interviewing with VP’s. I find they are typically older so their ego’s are smaller, or rather, are better/more diplomatic at hiding it 😉 I don’t know what it is, but from my experiences I find men in their early 40’s extremely egotistical. It’s like they want to prove that they are not young anymore.
I’ll keep you posted when it’s all said and done. Again, I appreciate your advice and support, it really helped me to put things in perspective.
Derek
I have no doubt you would prove them right, Trish!
Long job hunts can be so draining – and demoralizing. Even if 20 people say no, you are no less talented. It really is about finding that match between you and the job. Please try your best not to think about the ones that got away. Just keep going until the right one comes along. And when it does, we’ll all pop those champagne corks!
May the next one be the one for you Trish! Or the next one after that if need be. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Dear Ronnie and Derek,
Thank you so much for your comments. I was feeling really crappy after the interview and am so glad that this is not within the NORM! Ye…I do need the job and I am so tired from these fruitless interviews I’ve been having, but still the hope is there. You are probably right that working for someone like this can turn into hell overnight. Hopefully, there is a company out there that will consider it worthwhile to hire me ….and I will sure try to prove them right.
sincerely,
Trish
Hi Derek!
Wuhoo! I’m so happy for you. Love these good news comments. Hope to get many more from all of you!
As for the guy making that remark “what do you want to be when you grow up?”…that was kind of a dumb thing for him to say. But think of it as envy and not put down. Almost everyone older than you wants to look young. Sometimes when people notice it, they blurt out something that sounds stupid, but no harm meant.
Now here’s an admission…I worked with a really young guy who looked even younger and he was a dynamo. But we all gave him a hard time about his baby face and huge ambition to help season him a bit. Now I feel a bit sheepish about that, but we never for one minute didn’t value this guy!
If you value yourself, looking young is a lot like like me being short. It never got in my way although I could have let it! In fact, on many occasions I’ve mentioned my exact height and people look at me saying “I thought you were taller.” A lot of it is about how you project yourself. But comments like that? Mostly good-natured. Let it slide right off your back. 😉
And thanks for adding your thoughts for Trish. I have the best readers, don’t I?
Good luck with the interview. Crossing everything. Please keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
Trish,
Based on your comments would you really want to work there anyways? From my experiences I have noticed that the managers that ask very detail oriented questions during the interview end up being supreme micro managers!!! Also, the fact they got so into your personal life could be an indicator of how they view work life balance. Just a thought..
Derek
Hi Ronnie Ann,
You were correct. The hiring manager called me today and he will be sending an email to schedule an appointment with himself and the Director next week! I’m so excited!!!
I guess that question I had about catering your responses based on their level is not as important anymore because if I have to interchange in the middle of the interview I think I would go nuts!
About being myself – it’s hard. I’ve always been kind of different in the way I think and often people misinterpret me as a result. I’m 29 years old and look young so I feel like I have to compensate for this. I had a 3rd interview with a Director not too long ago and the first thing that came out of his mouth was, “what do you want to be when you grow up?” Can you believe that? I’m also very entrepreneurial and have been told this on multiple occasions, by my bosses and friends, so I think I come off as too aggressive at times. It is this mindset that nothing is ever good enough, and if everything remains the same things will never get better, that gets me into trouble at times.
Anyways, I think I’m blabbering because I’m excited but keep it up. I love reading your supportive responses and you seem to be really informed in terms of what is going on in the recruiting industry these days.
Derek
Hi Trish!
Oh my lord! This sounds like a horrible interview process they put you through. I’m non-violent by nature, but I kind of want to go kick them in the shins.
Employers have no right to ask you such personal questions at such a detail level. I think it’s illegal to ask marital status and believe there’s something in the Constitution about privacy rights . To me this feels like coercion and invasion of privacy! I would have honestly left the room.
As for where you see yourself in five years, you have to adjust the answer to the type of job and company, but no one knows to the specific detail what they’ll be doing and the fact that they pressured you to go to that level shows me they have no understanding of people and management. Attention to detail has nothing to do with making up a bogus future vision.
But let me cool down and answer practically. I know you need a job. And I also understand that once you’re in a room in the middle of an interview, people try their best. Sounds like you sure did!
No Trish…this is far from the norm. It was awful! No wonder you felt creeped out. Now many interviews do try to get you to give detailed answers. Tech interviews for instance, can even ask for you to solve a code problem. And finance interviews may ask you to discuss various formulas used to analyze companies or give a detailed methodology for addressing a problem. Etc. But very few grill a person quite like this.
I applaud you for hanging in and thinking quickly on your feet. But, even though I know you need a job, I would think long and hard before working for this company. If they treated you like that in an interview, what would it be like to work for them? If they do call you back for a second interview, I would go to see if maybe these first characters were not the norm there. But I would be very cautious about working for them.
I hated saying that, but I just have to be honest and let you know how it seems to me. And in the future, you have a right not to answer questions like that – unless it’s the CIA I guess.
I am so sorry you went through this Trish. You know I’ve grown fond of you and this just seems so off the wall. I hope you never have to go through that again!
Good luck. Please let me know how you’re doing. And…if for some reason the company does turn out to be a good one…please let us know and explain what that was all about!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Well, I just got back from another 1st interview which I thought was not too successful. First of all the interview was very strange….I was asked very personal questiones that I was never asked in any of my previous interviews. In a nutshell, they wanted to know everything about me starting from my birth….including my parents and their occupations, my husbands occupations and the companies he worked in….which I thought was very peculiar….but that was all manageable till one of the interviewers (there were 2) asked me to specify exactly the months and dates of the beginning and ending of my jobs and exactly how long I have searched for each job specified in my resume….that was when I stumbled because I honestly couldn’t recall all the dates and exact months….I could specify in terms of the number of years or month, but not exact month. So anyways, he really insisted I’d be more specific in this regard, so I tried, but there appeared to be some overlaps ….and I found myself in a very awkward situation. They were writing every little thing down….I’ve never seen anything like that. Anways, after we were finally over with the dates….and they proceeded with other more job- related questions….I think I was doing good, but I didn”t feel that they were very impressed. They also asked me the all too known “”where do you see yourself in 5 years” and I basically answered very similarly to what you have suggested in this blog, but they thought my answer was not specific enough once again, and told me that since I applied for this position which required great attention to details I should be able to come up with something more specific. So I somehow tackled it, but again the feeling was that they were expecting something else.
The interview lasted 1 hour and they asked me about the salary expectations and told me that I’d probably get a response tomorrow…or this week for sure. Anyways, I felt a bit unpleasant after the interview….as if they were rummaging in my dirty laundry and still didn’t find what they were looking for.
I would appreciate your thought on this interview. Is this type of interview still within a “norm” and whether you think it’s definitely a “NO” to the next level.
thanks,
Trish
Hi Brad!
Good to hear from you. I’ve been wondering how you’re doing.
I LOVE stories like this. Not that it always works this well, but what you did was the perfect way to deal with a fading interview process. And there you were fresh in their minds when a new position came up. Very cool.
You are so lucky that he gave you some magic hints about what they want to see. Calm on the inside and energy on the outside is what many of us look for.
And presence is about being there 100% with the other person – listening and answering what they say – and not thinking ahead to what you might want to be saying. Just be yourself. As for the rest…you have a good answer so tell it to them with complete belief in yourself and they will get it!
If you can, practice a little tonight in the mirror, being both parties. Answer with honest energy and sincerity. And when you meet, let him see who you really are. Being professional is fine…but it doesn’t mean you have to contain yourself in a perfect, homogenized box. Let them see who you really are. You have nothing to lose.
Go get ’em , tiger! You have what it takes. I can tell. 🙂 And please let us know. I have my fingers, eyes, and legs crossed for you.
Good luck, Brad!
Ronnie Ann
Ok here is the update.
I let some time pass and I shot a quick e-mail to the hiring manager saying that I had assumed they had decided to go with another candidate. I had asked for some feed-back on my interview skills.
The manager wrote back, and stated that they had in-fact gone with another candidate that they felt more suited for the position. He gave me some feed-back both positive and negative, but stated that my references were good and told me to stay in touch if I liked, and to look him up on Linked-In. I thanked him for his candor and siad I would keep his feedback in mind through my search. I also added him into my network on Linked-In.
Here is where it gets a little crazy. I got an e-mail from the manager today, stateing that they have another opened position that may be available somtime in the near future, and he asked if I would be willing to meet him after work for Cofee to discuss….Absolutley!!!
Well….He changed the time to 8:45 A.M. but great just the same. I rather had gone out after work in a less formal environment, but I will take it just the same…
I hope I don’t blow it this time. His negative feed-back had to do with “presence and energy level” and they had concerns in putting me in charge of their highest revenue generating account and working with little supervision.
I am a younger looking guy, so I always have difficulty when a company is looking to put a guy who is 32 but looks 19 in-charge of there account. As far as energy, I think I showed some tenacity in the interview process….so I think I can overcome that one. Working with little supervision, well I currently work in different states as my manager so they may have mis-judged that one. I have a calm demeanor which I thought showed profesionalism, I think I have that objection covered as-well. Any suggestion on how I may address there concerns?
Hi Diana!
Thanks for sharing your story. I hope there’s nothing in your background or drug test that hurt your chances. Good to find out. Sometimes it can even be a mistake, so if you are willing, maybe it pays to make a call to the HR person just to check.
They may very well have hired someone else, but maybe it’s also just a delay in getting back results. That happens. No reason you can’t make a polite call. 🙂
Good luck. Maybe you’ll even get a nice surprise. I hope so! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
I went to an interview on Thursday. they pretty much wanted to hire me right then and there. saying when they get the results of the background check and drug test they’d call me Monday. They had me set for training today.. but there was no call on Monday like the interviewer said there would be one.this job would have been my second job.there’s nothing to prevent me from getting the job. so i figured that they chose someone more qualified.
Hi Lisa!
Sorry things are so bad for you at work. I can see why this company offered so much hope – and maybe it still does. If she didn’t tell you not to apply, then there’s no reason not to keep trying.
But I really hope there are some other sources too! That’s why networking. etc. is so important, especially at times like this. And don’t forget the job finder on this site – it pulls from a variety of major search engines. Who knows…it may be lucky for you!
Under the circumstances, I do agree it would feel great if you could quit and find some temp work until the right job comes along. But if that’s not possible, all you can do is try to make what you have now feel a little less horrible for you.
I’m not suggesting this article to get another dialog going. 🙂 Just offering it in case it helps – even a little.
I think there are things you can do to help; but right now, I know it’s hard to focus on anything but wanting to stop the pain. I’ve been there and do know how that feels.
Good luck, Lisa.
Ronnie Ann
Well I called them today to find out what the deal was. They said the one was entered as “you have not been chosen” because I had already applied for the position before they changed it from Supervisor to Manager (they are two different positions based on how many doctors are in the practice). The other one they changed to “you have not been chosen” because they said it is an internal positing only……..which they usually define by having that at the top in big read letters. This posting didn’t say anywhere that it was internal candidates only…….GRRR!! But hey, now I know!! The answer to your question about why they have so many positions open…….yes, they are expanding the practices. The current one I just interviewed for was small enough that the “regional manager” didn’t have a supervisor there. She just had a “team leader”. Now they are expanding and are in need of a supervisor as they are hiring more doctors and they are also building them a brand new building. They have a ton of construction projects right now because the offices are expanding so much and adding on doctors. Though the first position I interviewed for that person did leave. So I think it’s a mixture of both things happening, but I think a lot is the expansion. I just know I need to get out of my current job and quickly!! I’ve been pulling my hair out and I’m stressed out here everyday. I’ve been fighting with my boss because he’s so wishy washy and things are going on that I don’t like. If I don’t get something else soon I’m going to go INSANE!!!! Unfortunately I’m a single woman on my own, so I can’t just quit or I won’t be able to pay the bills!! If I was able to do so though I would literally walk out the door it’s that bad right now. GRR!!!
Lisa,
I guess you might as well call them and politely say something like you’d really like to work there and are wondering if there’s a limit to the number of jobs you may apply for. Although I’ve never heard of a limit per se, at this point, it looks like you have nothing to lose.
Please be prepared in case they suggest that you don’t need to keep applying. In the best scenario, once your resume is on file, some large companies make it available for all similar positions and so you don’t need to keep applying.
On the other hand…you’ve really given it your best shot here and done all you can, and at this point – especially with the response you got – to borrow a phrase from Sex and the City, it may simply be they just aren’t all that into you. 😉 Sometimes there isn’t a match with the company and they know it…and this is their way of letting you know.
If that’s the case, considering the way they’ve been throughout this process, this may be the best thing that ever happened to you. Oh…I know you really want to work there and it seems unfair since there have been so many openings lately. (BTW…are they expanding or are these people fleeing for safe ground?) But I’ve watched people really excited to get their “dream” job and then, once inside, they find it’s a nightmare for them. So maybe…just maybe…this has been a blessing.
Of course, if you call and something they tell you negates what I’m saying, I’ll be VERY happy for you. In fact, I’d love to find out I’m wrong about this! But if not, I think it’s time to kiss your lucky stars and find a job that you’ll really enjoy and that will welcome you.
I know this has been a grueling process and for that I’m sorry. But in my long career, I’ve had many unexpected turns that actually brought something better my way. I wish that for you.
Much luck finding a real dream job, Lisa.
Ronnie Ann
Ok, I have a question. The one company that I’ve been applying for…….they’ve had a bunch of management openings for their physician offices. Well I had applied for 3 of them and my application status was always changed to reflect that they sent them on to be reviewed by the person interviewing……and I’ve always gotten an interview. Well they just had two more openings, so I immediately applied……..these two have the exact same requirements as the others, they are just different offices. Well on both of these they immediately changed the status to “you have not been selected for this position”. When I had called them about that previous job I had interviewed for (and not gotten) they told me “you’ve applied for a lot of positions”. Which of course I have because they are what I’m looking for and there is no guarentee I’ll get one. So is it that they are just seeing it as a problem that I’m applying for the jobs??? I’m totally confused how I qualify for 3 that are exactly the same and now I don’t qualify to send my resume on all of a sudden. Do they usually only let you apply for so many or something? Is it ok if I call them and ask how I all of a sudden don’t qualify anymore? I’m totally confused!!!! :o(
Hi Derek!
Thanks for the kind words.
As or your phone interview…you’ve come to the right place. I used to do a lot of them and quite honestly, as nice as I am 😉 I would have handled it pretty much the same way, even if very interested in the person. (Well…maybe I’d have let you know you did well, but most phone interviewers don’t show their hands.) The mere fact that it lasted so long is a very good sign. If I don’t think there’s a chance, I politely end the call as soon as possible.
So while you can’t know for sure you’ll get the next interview, the way it was handled does not in any way show they aren’t interested. And your effort to try to get to the next step was a good sign of your determination, as long as you handle something like that politely and pull back immediately when, as in this case, they gave you a signal.
Honestly, most phone interviewers are not going to set up the next interview. They really do need to finish all of them and then discuss which candidates to bring in. So, from what you’ve told me, there’s a good chance you may get the call.
As for tailoring your answers depending on who is interviewing you, some people might advise you to do that, but truth is, it’s a dangerous game. Never assume that level means the person is any different in what they’re looking for. In fact, sometimes lower level employees are more stringent in what they’re looking for so that they send the right kind of people to the big cheese.
Is there a chance you act differently because of the level? It’s best to always be yourself – but of course the self that’s on your best behavior. 🙂
Talking about “solid numbers” and more concrete business-related things with a Director is a fine idea, but you also want to have some good stories about you – and how you turned things around or came up with a new way of doing something, etc. And those stories should not go on and on. You have to balance being bright and talented and amazing with being someone they’d actually want to work with on a daily basis.
I hope that helps a little. Good luck, Derek. Please let us know what happens!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Very interesting posts indeed and it’s nice to see that you’re helping individuals that are experiencing the crazy interview process.
I have a couple questions..
I just had a phone interview that lasted about 50 mins. For the most part the hiring manager did most of the talking. The only negative is that I feel it ended awkwardly. I came straight out and told him that it looked like the type of job that I was looking for and that I felt I could make a positive contribution, following a request to see when would be an appropriate time to set up a face-to-face interview so I could further demonstrate I was the best candidate. His response was that he was still interviewing candidates and would be having a meeting with his manager to further discuss the candidates. Think this is a bad sign? It just sounds so generic!
Secondly, would be interested to know how you feel you should change up your responses according to who is interviewing. I have had a few interviews where everything went well with the HR manager and Hiring Manager only to be rejected by the Director. The only thing that I can take from this is that you need to be more succinct the higher up you go and maybe focus more or the revenue side (solid numbers) when interviewing higher up in the chain. What are your thoughts?
Thanks,
Derek
Awww! That means a lot to me! 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Even if you don’t have a magic wand don’t ever doubt that at least in my case you are helping a LOT!!!!
Thanks, again
Trish
Hi again Trish!
I hear you and of course I never claim to know every answer for every situation. Oh how I wish I did! Well…then again, that would be waaay too much responsibility. 😉
I see no reason for you to feel stupid about something that was hidden from you. And then again, there are other things that could have happened. I’ve been on the inside and I know.
In sales, they talk about being able to close the deal. When you tell me that you’ve had free-lance work that never went anywhere and you tell me about all these interviews which you have no problem getting, I can’t help wonder if maybe there’s something else going on. Then again…it may be absolutely nothing you can control. Sometimes it’s just a matter of luck on top of all the things you’re doing.
But I have turned a lot of free-lance and even temp jobs into real jobs, and so I offer these suggestions from real experience, not platitudes. It can be done. Read 20 Tips to Help You Change Jobs from Within! to see how one thing can turn to another. (I offer these thoughts not as exact ideas, but to spark your own creativity.) Even once you have a job (temp or permanent), you can still work to close the next sale!
So now – and please forgive me if I sound a little harsh – it comes down to whether you want to believe there is a way for you to make this happen for yourself or not. All the rest is just stuff. If you are doing all you can (and I believe you may be), then you just have to view each one as a fresh chance – letting all the rest go.
But…since you can only control you and NOT the other guys, if there’s anything you can come up with to get you past the initial stages (networking is about that as much as getting the actual interview) then try your best to get that extra boost. This country may be different than what you’re used to, but that’s just how it is – and your job now is to walk through the differences and land the job anyway.
Think again about temp work and free-lance as well as looking for that perfect job. I heard what you said. I just want you to know that I built my whole consulting business from taking a risk on free-lancing – and it really paid off! Now I get that may not be for you, but since I have quite a few years on you, some of these morphing skills are learned as you go along. Really…I remember being…ahem…young, and since then I’ve learned a lot about how to finesse business situations that I never knew I didn’t know. 🙂 This could be one of the greatest career-changing obstacles you’ll ever overcome!
Again, sorry I can’t help more. I’m glad it’s at least helped you to have a place to air your feelings of frustration and to learn a little about “the other side”. And I’m sure you will keep looking despite how it feels. Being flexible and open to possibility can present some amazing opportunities.
Good luck finding them!
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie,
It’s really comforting to get a glimpse at the in-side processes, which would have otherwise been remained entirely in the dark for me. I do hear you on all the accounts you’ve mentioned regarding the “you never know it till you sit in the new desk” and that these things are beyond my control – that goes without saying. But I still cannot help feeling like an idiot….because only last Friday they gave an impression of still being interested in me, while I am now pretty sure they already knew they intend to hire someone else. ..they had to hide this information for reasons I still fail to understand (I wish they’d given a short course on how to properly decipher the hiring code).
Regarding your wise suggestion to stay in touch with the company – will sure do. Also, when I spoke to the manager I made sure to thank him and of course ask him to consider me once anything matching my skills would come up. He of course promised to do so.
I scanned the “creative job search category” and while it offered some invaluable guidance, I didn’t find anything I could apply for myself. First of all I am not looking for something just to make a living…as my husband makes enough for both of us to survive even without me ever working again. I know that doors can suddenly open in places I never expected but, I had some experience with freelancing and projects and that’s all it ever remained just temporary projects. I am 29 and I really wish to find a solid permanent position and my first fear when coming here was that I’d never be contacted by anyone and never get to the interview stage. Imagine my surprise when it wasn’t long till I was practically bombarded with emails and phone calls inviting me for interviews. So I said to myself waoo I have a real chance here and would never have imagined it would take me that long to land the job that I want. I never had problems passing interviews and getting the offer. That is not to say I wasn’t refused from time to time – because I WAS….but to be refused so MANY times…and every time from a different reason. ..that’s really new to me.
I’ve managed to encounter here some really bizarre (in my opinion) interviewing procedures. There was one company with which I’ve been in contact for about 2 months. I’ve passed three interviews, they asked me to prepare a certain task and then present it to them – which all worked fine and I received very positive feedback all along. Yet, on the last stage when they should have made up their minds…they informed me that it was only me and another candidate they are considering ….so I waited weeks over weeks and it was all quiet. So once I contacted them they told I am still running, and then the next day they said sorry we decided to go with another candidate. I was very disappointed, but moved on. The funny thing is that I see their ad appearing from time to time again…and a few days ago I was contacted by a recruitment agency saying they want to send my cv to a company….and it turned out it was the same company. So – they are still looking… would it be fair to assume there was no other candidate and they for some reason didn’t want me – but then why did it take so long. In any case the point is that I don’t seem to have problems with being invited to interviews and for the most part passing the first rounds but then something happens in the higher levels (btw references are not part of the hiring process here – so we can rule out those).
Anyways, thank you so much for listening to my blabbering …I am trying very hard not to lose hope here….it’s just so many interviews and still there is nothing.
Trish
Hi Trish!
I’m really sorry this is the way it turned out. While it speaks well for the company that it looks to promote from within, don’t assume they weren’t giving you serious consideration. I’ve been in a situation where we wound up hiring an internal candidate even though we were close to going with one from the outside. These are things you just can’t control.
But you can control how you handle the interview process, and the fact that they were even thinking of having you speak with the “big boss” shows you did quite well indeed!
The beginning of this article tells it like it is. You only know for sure that you’ve gotten the job when you actually have it. You are not alone in surprises like this. As much as we want to – and Trish, rest assured that we’ve all been there – no one can be sure until he or she is sitting in the new desk!
I read your words “I guess I just never learn, do I” and want to make sure you understand that the only thing you need to learn is that this is simply how the interview process is. Sometimes you hit the right job immediately; sometimes it takes months and months – even longer in a tighter economy. And for you, I assume even harder because you live in Holland.
But for the right job, it’s worth waiting. There’s no reason to assume the next one won’t be a “yes”. It can happen at any time. You just have to keep believing in yourself.
And don’t forget to stay in touch with this company. A new position could come up, and, since they’ve already been through the process with you, by sending an occasional e-mail (maybe even congratulating them on a business deal or something else you’ve read about) you might be someone they think of first.
Also, check some of my posts in the “creative job search” category. Think of other ways to get what you want – like free-lance projects, networking, proposals they can’t resist, places you might not have considered where your knowledge of other countries/languages is a plus, etc. There’s always a way! Please don’t ever lose hope, Trish. But again…especially because of your particular situation, it just takes longer and extra patience. You will get there.
Good luck. We’re here if you need to vent, but also we’re here WHEN you have good news to share! 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Here is my latest update….unfortunately not a good one. Just now I received a phone call from my would be manager, who told me that they had to fill the position with somebody who was already from the company….and as he said they couldn’t reveal this information sooner. That was quite a surprise to me….I quess I just never learn, do I. He said he was very impressed with me and pushed my CV forward but the decision was made, as he put, due to cost effectiveness. Anyways, I feel pretty down…this was really unexpected.
Trish
Hey Ronnie,
Well, it’s already past 1pm and I still haven’t heard anything….what should I do now….should I contact the HR girl again or…?
Oh, Trish…it will pay off eventually. Especially if you continue to look for jobs and interview! As I always say, no matter how many interviews you get a no from, you only need one YES. You’ll get there.
And if by any chance you think you could benefit from practicing your interview skills (other than on these interviews 🙂 ), do that too. (I have some posts on that.) Job hunting is a full time job; and we can always get a little better or strengthen our resumes/cover letters while waiting for the right job to come along. The tighter the resume and cover, the more likely you are to attract a job that matches you.
As always…I am hoping for good news soon for you. I think we all are.
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie….hope the waiting will pay off eventually…
Oh Trish…what feels like whining is a very legitimate voice just asking for more consideration. Feel free to use this blog to let it out. You are NOT alone!
You make me so aware of all the times I could have been more considerate. As someone who’s been on the other side and interviewed many people, there were many times when I was told by HR or the boss I was working for that I couldn’t say anything and that they would take care of it. Or it just got so hectic time flew. And I know people were waiting to find out what happened. And waiting. And waiting.
If I could, I’d go to each and every boss and HR department and let them read all of these heartfelt comments and e-mails I get from good people like you who deserve better. In fact, I wrote A Plea for Mercy to Human Resource Professionals (and Anyone Else Interviewing People for Jobs) almost 2 months ago wishing people would secretly send it to interviewers who mostly just don’t realize or remember what it feels like.
On the employer side, you do get so busy and you really don’t think about all the people waiting. Or things happen to delay it a day and then another day and so on. Or if you do think about keeping people informed, as I mentioned, you’re told to hold off. And then time passes and some people are NEVER told. It’s awful. And that’s one of the reasons I care so much about this blog and this particular thread of comments.
Now all that said…my philosophy is to understand the reality and do what we can for ourselves to make it as painless as possible. If that includes following up and checking on our status, so be it. While I wish with all my heart that the system would suddenly humanize – and I promise to preach that all I can – the truth is employers will continue to put a low priority on interview follow-up and etiquette. (Hmmmm… maybe that should be a required Business School course?) So it’s up to us to do what we can to help ourselves.
And with that in mind, I think you are doing a great job. If the chemistry is wrong, there’s nothing you can or should do. But when it’s right, just as you’ve been doing, you hang in and give it your all.
I wish you much luck Trish, and am hoping you get a real live YES soon! And thank you for sharing this. I’m hopeful too. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hey again Ronnie,
I have to share with you my other anxieties..if you don’t mind…:) I actually went to three other interviews while I was waiting for the replay from this company. I’ve been to two interviews in one company where the second interview I felt did not go well at all (unlike the first one) and I also wasn’t sure I was really interested in that position….but I thought to give it a try anyway, because the team seemed to consisit of really nice people . But I felt very odd in the second interview where the interviewer seemed to have that perplexity over why the hell I was invited to the interview in the first place (at least that’s the impression I got). He barely looked me in the eyes and went through my resume very briefly. On top of that he seemed quite baffled and had almost no questions for me and if I didn’t asked him anything at the end, the interview would have stopped after 20 min. There was absolutely nothing I could do to save it….as he looked completely unenthusiastic about me and this particular position – well, I am not sure why I was invited at all and after he presented it the way he did, why would anyone be interested in it. In any case, there was no chemistry whatsoever. Yet, the HR girl said that by the end of the week they want to fill the position and if not she’ll send me a note regarding my status TODAY. I know I didn’t get it…also because yesterday I saw that very ad running again….but what absolutely freaks me out is that no one seems to have time to do a perfectly human thing…TO INFORM …surely it takes only few minutes.
That’s that …and then I had another interview in another company which went in my opinion very well….it lasted almost hour and a half and I think I was on my best….they asked me all the right questions at the end whether I was interviewing for other companies and even asked me to provide some of the names…asked for my references…availability etc. I was my natural self and the conversation seemed to flow well…so at the end they promissed to give me a call on Monday)….also Monday(to possibly schedule another interview…they specifically said they’ll call and not write…but just the idea of having to wait for so many things on the coming Monday and maybe still not having any answers makes me sick…I just wonder why do they say they’d contact on specific dates…and that most of the time it doesn’t happen. Oh well, I just wish Í would be over with it…the process slowly but surely wares me down.
Sorry for whining so much…I know I am just one of many… but GOD why everyone are so into business….where did humanity and compassion go?!
slightly depressed but still hopeful,
Trish
I’ve heard of stranger things. 🙂 Thanks for clarifying.
Ronnie Ann
oops no I meant 1pm, of course …
Hi Megan!
Wow. Congratulations on having this dilemma…not that it’s an easy one.
I had something very similar happen years ago. After I got the offer of a job I wasn’t crazy about (but still didn’t want to give up for the same reason as you), I called the other job. I let the person I interviewed with (the head of a New York City agency I really wanted to work for), know. She was a little put off, almost coming out and telling me she thought I was trying to put pressure on her and they hadn’t made their decision yet.
I politely explained I only meant to let her know I really wanted to work for her and yet needed to give an answer to the people who’d already made me an offer. She asked me to give her a couple of days – which I did. And when I hadn’t heard from her, because the other people were so nice and I couldn’t keep them waiting any more, I said yes – and wound up making lifelong friends and meeting someone who eventually got me into the type of work I would have been doing for the Commissioner. Funny how life works.
Oh…one more piece of the story. Turns out the OTHER job (with the Commissioner) had left a message on an answering machine telling me they wanted me – only it wasn’t my machine. And so fate played a role in my future. And yet I never regretted it.
Hope you didn’t mind that slight tangent. Just a nice story about how things work out in ways we don’t expect some times.
As for your situation… I think it would be perfectly ok to call and let them know what’s going on. These things do happen. Remembering my story and how she reacted, just be as polite as possible and make sure they know you feel terrible about trying to rush their decision and that you’re only doing it because of how much you want this job. Nothing lost by trying!
If they ask for a few more days, see if you can get the other job to give you that time. No sense letting a good thing go. And if you do wind up having to take the job you don’t want as much, maybe it will wind up working out as well as mine did. You just never know!
Good luck, Megan. Please let us know what happens. Fingers crossed that you get the job you really want. But if not, congratulations on having a pretty good second choice!
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie,
I had a first interview with a prospective employer last week, May 14th. I met with the HR rep and she gave me some constructive criticism on my current resume; how to make it more concise for the actual managers I would be interviewing with on a second interview for their company. After a couple days I sent a thank you email and a copy of my update resume. The HR rep called 10 mins after I sent the email and scheduled a second interview for Wednesday, May 21st.
On the second interview I met with the HR rep and four other people on an interview that lasted approximately 2 hours. I felt I left a very good impression regarding my personality and skills. Yesterday morning I sent another follow-up email thanking every person for their time but I still have not heard back.
I have received an offer from another company only it is not as great as this one. I really want to wait and see what happens but on the other hand I really need to start working right now for financial reasons.
Would I come across as annoying or bothersome if I were to now call HR and ask if I am still being considered, even after I have already sent my follow-up email? Is it too soon?
Megan
Oh Trish! Happy to read this. Is the call really 1 am (in the morning) because of where you live? Wow.
While I join you in knowing it might not come to pass again because of some emergency meeting or whatever, this really does sound hopeful. In fact, I’m a little excited. Maybe you’ll have to calm ME down. 🙂
Good luck, Trish. And yes…please keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Just an update: I broke down today and decided to call the HR department with whom I’ve been in contact. She was very nice and said that it’s good of me to call because they’ve been VERY busy. She said she knows I’ve been waiting an abnormally long time but it’s because of their presentations and meetings and she is going to call right away to the manager with whom I had the first interview and update me on this regard. Then she got back to me apologizing again for the huge delay and said that I should expect a phone call on Monday at exactly 1 am to schecule a second interview with the ”BUSY BIG BOSS.” I of course thank her….I am though rather skeptical about the EXACTLY 1 am – but at least I am still running.
Thank you very much for listening and supporting. I will let you know about the DESTINY CALL 🙂
Trish
Hi again Lisa!
Oh! I’m so sorry. Well…at least you finally know. I can’t say I’m surprised, but just hate that you had to wait so long and try so hard and only found out because of your own initiative. I think I can safely say many of my readers feel your pain!
BUT…the good news is you actually had an interview with the organization where someone asked you questions! Wow. What a change! 😉
You might not be surprised that I feel a lot better about this one already. Although, of course, it’s only the beginning of the process. At least now you know whom to call to find out where you stand. Progress!
I wish you a much happier story with this one, Lisa. And hope you get the other interview too! Love your determination.
Good luck. Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Ok, I just called HR again about the job I previously interviewed for. The girl looked it up and again said I was showing as “active”. I asked her if it usually took this long because it seemed like the woman I interviewed with wanted to make her decision by May 5th and it was way past that. She said she was going to transfer me to another HR rep who was in charge of that area. When she sent me to her the HR rep said “Oh yeah, that position had been filled, didn’t she get back to you?”. I was like “no.”. So bottom line, it was filled, but they didn’t bother to let me know or put position filled on my file. GRRRRR!!! Not very professional in my opinion, but at least now I know!!! Unfortunately not good news, but it was the news I expected for this particular position since it took so long. I think I did well in my interview this morning, but I think I was the first person she interviewed, so it will be a little while. The interview was MUCH different and I was actually asked questions!! She said she’ll take the top candidates and have them meet with the doctor, so we’ll see if I get that second interview!!
Hi Lisa!
Wow! They really are keeping you hanging on that first one. Although, as I’ve said, I waited 3 months once to be told I was their top choice. This is why I never rule anything out until I have concrete evidence.
But GREAT news about the new interview. I agree…with your persistence and skills, good chance one of these jobs will come through for you. Soon I hope. I can’t take the suspense any more. 🙂
Good luck with this one, Lisa! We’re all rooting for you. As always, please keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
Just an update…….STILL haven’t heard anything back about that job……..GRRR!!!! However, I applied for two other management positions with the same company. Well today I got a call to interview for one of them…….so I have an interview Thursday morning!!! WOO HOO!!!! Hopefully one of these interviews will pan out!!!!
Oh how I wish we’ll be hearing good news from both of you soon, Brad and Trish.
Brad: I totally agree that they’d be letting a good catch get away if they don’t make you an offer. I think you’re wise to just let it go at this point and let any further contact from them be a (hopefully) nice surprise. Of course, a few weeks from now if you feel like it, you can always send an e-mail saying you assume they moved on but please consider you for future positions.
Oh…I know that’s not what you’re feeling. But there’s always the possibility something is going on beyond the control of those you’ve been in touch with. And it never hurts to at least make that added effort. But if you choose not to…I totally understand. 🙂 Just thought I’d throw the idea at you in case.
Oh…and as I think you know, I mentioned the references as a maybe. They may be fine. We just rarely know for sure…although if I could find out, I’d certainly let you know! 😉
Trish: Fingers, eyes, and legs crossed for you. In the meantime…have fun.
And of course…good luck to both of you!
Ronnie Ann
Thank you Ronnie!
Will do as you suggested – “back off and do something fun”…till I know more, sounds like a manageable task 🙂
Hope to hear something soon and will keep you updated.
Thanks Ronnie, I will just let it be for awhile.
I think I will just give it up, and let them persue me if they choose.
I can not imagine what any of my references siad that could of turned them off . I have never had any issues with references up until now (maybe?).
O well….They have lost a good candidate, and potential employee.
Hi Brad!
First…welcome back from the honeymoon. Glad it was fabulous. Congratulations!
As for this prolonged torture…I agree that something does seem a little strange. Once references have been contacted, a company pretty much knows whether it wants to hire the candidate. Companies usually don’t call references on one person and then keep interviewing others unless there is still some question in their mind…or unless there are multi-office internal processes related to the exact offer, etc. Sometimes that takes time.
As for references…maybe one of your references was a little soft. Or, even if they think they were being positive, they said something that made the checker unsure. But odds are you’ll never learn exactly what was said. And it may be something that would be perfectly fine with almost any other potential employer, so it may not be all that informative to even nose around too much. And again…references may not even be an issue.
But we really don’t know what’s going on. Maybe a new candidate was thrown into the mix. But maybe they’re just giving you the same language because that’s what HR tells them to say until they’re ready to make an offer.
I know it’s tough, but keep some hope in your heart until at least next week. 🙂 I wouldn’t send them that e-mail you mentioned regarding the references. If you haven’t heard anything by say next Tuesday, you might want to actually call them and ask if you can get an update on your status, letting them know again you’re still very interested. Then see what they say. If it’s the same old story, it’s ok to at least ask if you’re still in the running. If you are…just let it play out.
These things take on a life of their own. At least you’ve had some great news recently. And I’ll keep my fingers crossed that you’ll have more.
Please keep us posted. Good luck, Brad! My best to your new bride. 😉
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Well I am back from my Honeymoon. It was great. I definatley recomend Hawaii to anyone who is thinking about going.
I have some news to report on the job front as-well. While I was away I heard from my references that the company had called them. All of my references siad that they felt it went well. At that point I was thinking good news, and hopefully an offer, and I was getting my hopes up.
That was last Wednesday, and the rest of the week and I heard nothing. Finally on Monday I wrote an e-mail following-up to see where they are in the hiring process.
I figured they are calling my references, so they must have some type of feedback at this point.
I got a reply back today thanking me for my continued interest, that they are still interviewing candidates, and hope to make a decision soon. This is the same line I have been hearing for 3 months.
This is just getting strange to me. I can not figure why after 3 interviews, and reference checks, they are not giving the slightest amount of feedback. At least if I am out of the running, they could just let it out, so I could get an understanding as to why for future opportunies.
If they did not like somthing a reference said, I would like to know, so I do not use them in the future.
Not sure what to do at this point. I would like the job, but I am starting to feel a little strung along. I could write an e-mail letting them know that I am aware that they called my references and was hoping they could provide some feedback. Or I could just let it go and quit persueing this.
After all the time and energy invested in this, it would be nice to know what they are thinking, so if this does not work out I can learn and correct for the future.
I know they do not owe me anything, but I think that some consideration should be given in the preocess. This should be a 2 way conversation, so if the candidate does not work out we could at least get an understanding. Especially after going through as many rounds as I have.
Any advice?
Hi Suzanne!
Oh! I’m really bummed for you! I know how much you wanted this one and it sounded great. Interesting that neither candidate got it.
I’ve mentioned before the words a successful lawyer I went to school with told me years ago: No is the beginning of yes. If it’s at all possible and the idea interests you, keep this contact warm and let them know you would be open to another job or maybe even some consulting/contract work. Even if they have nothing now, send a friendly e-mail (maybe even snail mail to stand out) every few months. The fact that they took this long may mean you really made an impression. Can’t hurt to see if you can fan those embers of interest into a job offer one day!
Thanks much for letting us know. I wish you much luck. And please let us know when you find that dream job. I have a feeling you will. 😉
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
To give you an update (my posts are #s 153, 155, and 163), after waiting six whole weeks I finally got a response, and I guess closure on my situation. Unfortunately it’s not the best news, since I didn’t get the job, but the other finalist/candidate didn’t get it either! That’s not to say that it makes it easier or better because I actually feel bad for the both of us. Haha.
Your thoughts throughout this process has been invaluable to me. I’m sending you a personal note following this.
Thanks,
Suzanne
Hi Trish!
I can only imagine how frustrated you must feel. I’m so sorry it’s dragging on like this, especially considering your situation. “Ping pong ball” is a great description!
While I certainly don’t know what they’re thinking, what you are going through is NOT all that uncommon even for candidates who eventually get the offer. I’ve had something like this happen to me and I was their top candidate.
Sometimes the BIG BOSS just can’t clear her/his schedule (especially if s/he’s traveling and/or there are major projects going on). It often has nothing to do with the candidate. In fact, your poor contact may be bugging the big boss and feeling almost as frustrated as you.
At this point, I’d back off a little. At least until about Tuesday of next week, ok? 🙂 (Mondays are often hectic.) Give them a little more time to get back to you.
While nothing is for sure, think of it this way…if it’s this hard pinning the big boss down, how many other people would they even want to interview! There’s a good chance everyone is hoping you’re the one. And unless one of your references is a bad one, you may very well be.
Just breathe in and out and keep yourself occupied with something fun. Maybe by next week you’ll hear some good news. I sure hope so. 🙂
Good luck, Trish! Please let us know.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
This site has been so comforting!!!
Until I came across this website I thought I was the ONLY one who was dealing with the plight described by so many people here. Anyways, I have a bunch of lovely stories to tell about my job searching experience…but the recent one goes as follows:
I went to a first interview with a large corporation and it went much better than I expected (because my profile did not exactly match the requirements). The interviewer (my potential boss) was very impressed with my resume and the interview passed more as a friendly conversation rather than a standard /formal type of interview. By the end of our meeting he was very positive and told me he likes to be very transparent with his impression and not subject the candidates to an excruciating waiting. He further told me he sees great potential of working with me and in general was very enthusiastic. He also informed me of the process. He said there might also be an interview with a “big boss” but that he normally accepts his opinion on candidates and that he hopes the next interview will only be with the HR department.
Just before we parted, he said that because the “big boss” will be on vacation next week, I should expect a call exactly one week from the interview. A week passed and when I received no response, I sent a polite email to the HR department inquiring about my status. She said she’ll get back to me ….and she did within a few days, saying that they want to invite me for a second interview with the “big boss” but she still wasn’t sure about the exact date and time and said that a colleague of hers will confirm the interview on the following day (because she had a day off). The next day I received nothing and sent a polite reminder just letting her and her colleague know that my interview was not yet confirmed.
I waited through the weekend and when I received nothing again on the days that she said the prospected interview should take place, I sent another note verifying its status. She replied me saying that unfortunately the interview is postponed due to the unexpected engagements but that they want to invite me for the interview next week, which is THIS week, either on Tuesday or Wednesday and that she’ll confirm the interview ASAP. Needless to say that I heard nothing from her today…..and the interview should be either tomorrow or the day after that.
I feel very frustrated from the longish and tedious process and feel like a useless ping pong ball. I’ve been to quite a few interviews already and it has always been ‘’close by no cigar.’’ I currently live in Holland and have been for the past 6 months. I received my working permit about 3, 4 months ago and ever since have been trying to get a job.
I’d appreciate your thoughts on the scenario I described….is it a NO ? Have I been sending too many mails? And what should I do now? Send another mail, or wait?
Trish
UPDATE: CS wrote me privately to thank me and everyone and let us know that she will be back when she finds something.
We’re all rooting for you CS!
Ronnie Ann
Hi again CS!
There’s so much I want to say (sorry this is so lengthy), but I very much want to come up with something you might find useful. I think you sound great and if I were there, I swear I’d be making calls right along side you!
I’ve decided to mention some obvious things and also some wackier things. This is a full-frontal effort and I hope you pull out all the stops until you get a job you want and deserve. Although society doesn’t recognize this often enough, passion is one the greatest allies for being healthy; so let’s try to get you to a job you care about!
Note to my readers: This answer turned out to be so long I made it into a fairly comprehensive post. Since CS has already read it, if you’re curious what I told CS, please click here: (Sorry for any inconvenience)
12 Ways to Jump Start that “Impossible” Job Search
Good luck CS!
Lisa,
Thanks for your kind words and encouragement.
I worked at corporate headquarters for an HMO and in my opinion the insurance companies are the worst places for someone over 40 or 45 to work. Every time there was a layoff or re-organization, I’d check the list and it was almost exclusively groups of people that were over 40. I think they do this to save on employee health care costs.
The woman you work with should maybe get the gentle suggestion that she’s not too old to learn new things (she should order the PBS show on the brain–old dogs can learn new tricks!) And why is 55 suddenly retirement age? Don’t tell Larry King, John McCain, Hillary!
At 55, I feel I am just getting started. My mom died at the age of 92 and she’d been ill in her 50’s and then fully recovered. But there is definitely age bias. I wonder if there are any fields where age is a plus? I’ve also wondered what kind of business one could start with no loans/money?
Anyway, I hope you hear back about that job. I think it can take a while and it’s good you’re still looking at other management positions.
Thanks again for taking the time to lift my spirits and good luck, will keep my fingers crossed for you.
CS
Ronnie Ann,
Thank you so much for your time and your genuine concern. It really means a lot to me and
I appreciate that you’ve given my situation time and consideration. I kind of hate sharing my story since it can sound a little pathetic!
To answer your questions:
1) No, I’ve never mentioned my cancer or my daughter’s shooting.
a) In most interviews when asked why I took time off work I did say I had a special needs child as a way to explain my time out of work. I tell them I had no child care and then say my son is doing well and in college now.
b). I have in a few instances, mentioned I was a single parent–this has usually been in the context of doing writing work for the local TV station where my ex-husband was an executive (i.e., “I worked with projects for XXX-TV with my husband who was the creative director there.”) I have done this to let them know I have been closely connected on a social and professional level, thinking it sends the message that I know how to interact with company decision-makers.
Maybe I shouldn’t reveal I’ve been a single mom/divorced?
2. No
3. Very big metro area, in the Midwest
4. Very flexible
5. I emailed back the CEO as she seemed to prefer emails and then I never heard a peep.
6. One HR person said the job had been filled from within. Another said I should add some things that I did during my time at home. Kind of hard as I did “non-resume” things: advocating with school system, surgeries, chemo, I watched another single mom’s son who had Asperger’s , designed and planted a huge garden and wrote a book during that time (fiction, suspense).
Ironically, this is the first time since I was 30 that I can really devote 100% of my time and energy to a career.
I wish I could share my story with employers as a way to demonstrate my character, resiliency, ability to handle stress, endurance etc. but I guess it would overwhelm them and be wrong to do so.
I’ve gone to seminars at the Dept of Voc-Rehab, written Lance Armstrong, CancerCare, etc. etc. I have only been advised to never mention I was sick…and these places offer little if anything in employment services, generally only support/legal rights if you’re already working.
Sorry again for the length. Your sincere encouragement is very helpful to me.
CS
CS,
Wow, you are quite a survivor!!!!! That’s a lot to go through!!! I read through all the comments on here, I find it very interesting to hear everyone’s stories. When I read yours I had a possible suggestion. I’m sure Ronnie Ann can give you better insight on the “big picture” of the jobs you are qualified for and how to get them. However, in the mean time, have you applied at any doctor’s/dentist’s offices? I know you are qualified for a much higher job, but I know that I’ve worked in the medical field for 10 years and I’ve worked front office/back office jobs with people of all ages, backgrounds, and education. In smaller offices like that they don’t always care about certain life circumstances or what your age is. They tend to base things more on personality and the ability to learn the skills needed (which you are obviously very intelligent and would have no problem!!). Many times they go a lot on personality because a front office person can really make or break an office. If they are outgoing, upbeat, helpful, etc. then patients will keep coming back. If the office staff are rude or can’t do their jobs, even if they like the doctor patient’s will stop coming. Right now I work as office manager at a chiropractic clinic and our front desk person actually came to work for us at 55 years old right after she retired. She actually drives me insane because everything is “I don’t know. I can’t. I’m to old to learn.”. However, I don’t get the feeling you have that type of attitude!!! I know that’s not your field and probably not what you are looking for in the long run, however, it might be something to look into just for the short term. You would be able to find a full time job, have benefits (some offices have health ins, some don’t, but they have vacation and such). While it doesn’t pay a ton, it would still probably be more than the part time job you have now. It also depends on the office, some pay higher than others. But just an idea to possibly look into so you can at least be making enough money to live for now while you look for what you want. I work in a town that has a couple home offices for big insurance companies like Country Financial and State Farm. I’ve noticed that they pay their employees big packages to retire at 55. So I don’ know if age is a “problem” at some bigger companies…….I don’t know much about it, but that’s just what I’ve noticed. But anyway, just a suggestion/possibility for the meantime. I certainly wish you luck in finding the job that you want!!!!!! I’ll be sending positive thoughts your way!!!!!!!!! You are obviously a strong person and deserve great things!!! :o)
Lisa
Hello CS!
Congratulations on ALL you’ve survived. Your strength, ingenuity and perseverance are tremendous assets for any employer. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
I’m still working on an answer and very much want to come up with something useful, so please don’t think I’ve forgotten. Yours is a bit of a puzzle and not an easy answer. There are a lot of aspects to your situation I want to address – as well as some possible things for you to do.
While of course I can’t guarantee anything, I believe you are certainly employable. Don’t let the awful process make you start doubting yourself even for an instant! I can’t imagine why any good coach would tell you that’s all you have to look forward to when you still have so much going for you. By the way… I am 55 and I am fabulous and that is NOT old any more!! 🙂
A few questions if I may? (1) Have you told your personal history about the cancer, the divorce, what happened to your daughter, etc. during any phase of your interviews? (2) Did you actually sign permission slips for background checks? I think these are usually not done w/o your permission, but can’t vouch for that. (3) How large a town/city do you live in? And if you live in a small town, is there a large city nearby? (This goes to the types of options and resources I might suggest.) (4) How flexible are you about expanding where you might apply your writing or other skills? (5) Have you ever called the people you interviewed with (especially the CEO who was so interested in you) to ask what happened or explore other possibilities? and (6) Have you called the HR departments asking them nicely if they had been called?
Sorry for all the questions, but the more I know the more I can hopefully help. Please share whatever information feels comfortable to help me frame my answer. I’ll try my best to provide some useful suggestions and/or insight.
Thanks! And just so you know, CS…to me you sound great!
Ronnie Ann
Dear Ronnie Ann,
First, thank you for creating this wonderful place and the personal feedback.
I’m writing because I’ve had 9 interviews and 3 second interviews in 9 months. No job offers.
I was out of the workplace for seven years…was married to a TV executive and worked part-time and while I was awarded full child custody, I didn’t receive alimony as a result of an advanced degree (MS Education, 3.9 GPA).
A week after my divorce I was in a toy store with my children and my daughter was shot in the chest (she was 7) in a random act of violence. While she survived and is wonderful now, it took a while for her recovery.
As a single mom to my kids I managed to work as a writer/editor. My resume had a few starts and stops due to daycare problems with another one my children who has high-functioning autism. Still, I managed to buy a nice home a few years after the divorce and my oldest has graduated summa cum laude and makes 45K at a great job.
Seven years ago while working as an editor for a large HMO I became ill and was told it was stress. The last six months there I didn’t get a good review due to absences and my performance wasn’t really up to par. Turned out I had primary bone cancer as well as a brain tumor. I ended up selling my home a few years late and incurring credit problems due to my medical situation.
Last year I had my last surgery and received an excellent prognosis and look and feel healthy. So I found a job with a local school district where I work in special education part-time, no benefits, low pay. I wanted to keep busy and also have a regular schedule and believed I’d find a writing or editing job in several months. (The Secret has been no help here!)
I was very hopeful as the first job I interviewed for with an educational publishing company called me back for a second interview and I was told by the CEO they wanted to create a job for me because they liked my ideas and personality etc. She asked for references and said she was leaving town but would get back to me in four days. I never heard a word from her again, even though I sent an email to follow-up. She never contacted my references.
Then I had an interview to be a marketing manager. A stretch, but I did have two interviews and was told they would call me back either way. Never heard a word once again.
Then I had interviews with two hospitals to be their Communications Director. I was never called back for second interviews, don’t know why. I also had an interview recently for a free lance project where he told me on the spot he wanted to use me (it paid very well.) And 3 weeks ago, I had an interview with HR and the editorial director for a local company and was contacted by email to send more writing samples because she stated I was an “excellent writer.” Haven’t heard anything back.
As far as I know, none of my references have been contacted, unless the employers or HR departments were contacted without my knowledge. Or would they have done any background checks after the first interview and maybe found out about outstanding medical bills?
I have no idea what I can be doing better and wonder if if it’s because of my age (55), a credit check revealing problems –somehow they know I was sick–or???
I am generally very good at persevering but have hit rock bottom in the last few days. A job coach at a local church called and told me I should apply for a live-in housekeeper position for a wealthy family in the parish who needs ones. He said “in all honesty” that was all I could expect to get. I was flabbergasted.
I’m devastated and my money won’t hold out much longer. But even during cancer or when I lost my home I never felt depressed, I had hopes for the future. If this is the only future I can expect, it’s disheartening to say the least. This job coach told me the economy will only get worse, I’m getting older etc.
I have to work, and I have maybe 10 years before I’d be forced to retire. I look professional, have a personality that people generally like, appear confident (most of the time), have a good portfolio, years of experience, but am not sure what to do. Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
CS
Hi again Lisa!
I have to laugh. I actually breathed a sigh of relief as I read your words. Do you think maybe I get just a little too caught up in people’s stories? 🙂 It’s just I really get how tough this can be.
Thanks for filling us in. Smart move on your part to call HR – and nice of her to give you that info; not every HR department would. I can see you’re someone who prefers to take action if at all possible. They’d be lucky to get you!
I await the next part of your story with baited breath. Really hoping to hear some good news soon. Please let us know!
Ronnie Ann
Ok, I broke down and called their HR dept just to make sure that they DO at least send rejection letters or whatnot. The HR person was super nice and told me she’d check it out and give me a call back. She just called me and said that my status was still “active” which meant the position was not filled yet. She said it would read not hired if I hadn’t been chosen and it was filled. So I guess there is still hope!! Now it’s back to wait and see, but at least I know I’m still in the running at this point!! In the meantime though I’m still going to look and apply for other jobs because it’s obviously not a definate that I’m going to get this job. I’m just feeling pressured because I am super fed up at my current job and want to get the heck out of there…….but for the right job of course!! Thank you SO much for all your help and advice. It at least takes off a little of the stress being able to talk to someone about it!! Also, I had read Merle’s story…….I read all of the postings on here and all the frustrations, good news and bad news! Your site has been very helpful and I’m glad to know others are going through it to!!
Aw Lisa! Even I feel frustrated! I can only imagine how you feel. The most frustrating part of this whole process is simply not knowing. Hope it helps at least a little that I get back to you. 🙂
Not to give you false hope, but I have been involved in interviews where we actually liked the person, but stalled getting back to them until we could clear up some issues, like arranging follow-up interviews. Other than that possibility, the only things I can guess are: (1) they don’t want you and are waiting for the letter to arrive; (2) they are really bad about communication; (3) she’s on vacation or otherwise unavailable; or (4) her cell phone gets so many calls she only returns the urgent ones.
But unfortunately we won’t really know until she gets back to you. Sigh. At least as of this moment, as far as we know, you are still in the running! 🙂
At this point, I think you’ve done all you can. Now all you can do is be patient and wait – hard as I know that is. Maybe you’ll actually hear from her in the next day or two.
I REALLY do hope you get this – if it’s right for you, of course. But just in case you don’t…it may be a blessing in disguise. Did you read Merle’s story about the next job being a dream job for her? It’s worth a look.
Wishing you all the luck!
Ronnie Ann
Well I gave her a call yesterday around noon and so far…….no response. Nothing came in the mail today either. GRRRRR!!!!! I saw that there are a couple more management positions open, so I applied for them. However, I think one of them might also be under her region and it’s been up since April 9. Maybe the hold up is they’re trying to get that position taken care of to, but who knows. I know they were good about telling me when my application wasn’t chosen for another position, so I would think they would have the same courtesy about letting you know you didn’t get a position you actually interviewed for. So yeah, no news yet! BOOOO!!!! :o(
Hi again Lisa!
I think either of those is fine. Or maybe a short blending of both like “Hi! I just wanted to check in. I haven’t heard from the doctor yet and was wondering if there’s anything else I need to do?” Of course, in your own words.
But be prepared for good news, bad news, or no news. Any is possible, although naturallly I hope it’s good news. And I agree it’s smart to wait until after the mail arrives. 🙂
Good luck! Please let us know.
Ronnie Ann
What should I say though? Should I say something about if the doctor was going to call or that I’m just touching base to check on the status? I’m not sure exactly what I should tell her. I think tomorrow afternoon sounds good……I’ll wait till after the mail gets here just in case.
Hi Lisa!
I was thinking about that and glad you beat me to it.
Since she did you give you the number and tell you to use it if you have any questions and since you’ve already tried with no response, I think it would be ok to call her again at this point. My only suggestion is to wait until tomorrow afternoon. I know that’s a looong way away…but Mondays can be hell days – especially in places that are already hectic – so you have better chance of getting a response tomorrow. Just keep it short.
Good luck. I still have my fingers crossed for you!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann!! I have a question. I got home from lunch today, checked the mail and so far no rejection letter or anything. I still haven’t received any calls either. So I was wondering……..should I call the person I interviewed with and touch base with her? I only have her cell number, I don’t have an e-mail or anything. It’s been since May 1st that I interviewed and she had said she hoped to have everything done by May 5th, so she wasn’t interviewing anyone else. I’m just not sure if it’s appropriate to call and if so what should I say? Or should I call their HR dept? Just not sure if I should take a step and call or just be patient for now. Thank you for your help and advice!!!
Hi Lisa!
Thanks for clarifying so well. I was reacting to what I read and of course, in a small amount of space, you shared a lot of the concerns. I just wanted to make sure you were looking at the whole picture clearly – including what she’d be like to work with on a daily basis. Now that you’ve explained the situation more fully, I see you’ve considered all angles and have a good grasp on the human dynamics here!
It really does sound like they could use you and hopefully you’ll have a lot of autonomy. I have my fingers crossed that the delay is simply because things are so hectic and she’s caught up in training others. Maybe tomorrow you’ll get a nice surprise. I hope so. You’ve gotten me excited for you. 😉
Good luck! Please continue to keep us posted. We’re all rooting for you!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann!! Thanks for the reply!! I’ve had the same thoughts. As for the job becoming one…..she said that it had been one job in the past, they made it two, then after losing these two people they decided to make it one again. I’m certainly not afraid of a lot of work. At most of my jobs I end up being totally bored because I’m a fast worker and need tons to do to keep busy. Many times in jobs what would take some people an hour or two to do would take me maybe 15 minutes…….which I was also doing the job correct and accurately, I’m just fast. So I would welcome a job with a lot to do.
As for her, I felt comfortable with her. If the situation were different and I met her on the street I would feel an instant friend connection with her. I kind of felt that way in the interview like we had kind of a friend type of connection. I was getting my masters in counseling so I’m pretty good at reading people and when it came to her telling me about the previous person I got the impression that she was just so frustrated with the whole situation that she kind of needed to vent about it. I also think that she is pretty new in her job because she said she just hired someone next door to do the same position that I was interviewing for and that particular position used to be her position. I got the feeling she was pretty new to interviewing and it wasn’t exactly her favorite thing to do. She seemed to just want to get it all over with so she could get on with her job and to get on with training both new managers at the same time. I think she seemed also a bit afraid she was going to get the same type of person in the position which was why she was going on about the previous person (to gage my reaction about some of the things she did). I don’t think she’s been able to really learn and get into her position because she’s been having to do her position AND this one. I didn’t think it was necessarily professional, but I do know people tend to warm up to me quickly and feel comfortable venting to me and such. With the comment about what people wear I think there could be some kind of issue that she has, not sure what in the short time I talked to her. However, I don’t think it would present a problem with her and I…….in fact we talked about it for a little while about how comfortable scrubs were and such. Then she told me they had casual day on Fridays and jeans were allowed, but that she usually chose to still wear scrubs…….which I agreed with…….why wear jeans when you can wear scrubs which are like pajamas!!!! So basically we held the same view on that whole deal. It’s possible maybe she had some bad experience with someone talking down to her or something, who knows. I think her telling me those things in the interview probably wasn’t correct, but I have a feeling it came from frustration and inexperience with interviewing. We also all have parts of our job we don’t like and I think this might be one of hers. Other than that she came off very friendly and personable. She was very excited about her job and excited about all the changes being made. I actually got positive feelings from her as a person, she just doesn’t seem to hide her frustration…….which is fine, I don’t tend to hide my feelings either and from what she was telling me I’d probably be pretty frustrated also. I think she also might have wanted to convey the fact that the staff is now also frustrated because they pretty much haven’t had a boss on hand for months (and when she was there she didn’t do anything or listen to them), so I think they are a bit down in spirits…….so she probably wanted to convey I’d be walking into that. Again, which is fine with me. I’m confident and outgoing and I get my work done so I think that would help get them back on track.
As for if the salary, etc. wasn’t there. I would still want the job. However, it would still kind of depend on the salary only because I live out of town and would be commuting so with the gas prices as high as they are I would have to be able to afford that. With their current salary that wouldn’t be a problem since I would be getting almost a 50% increase in pay. If I lived in that area though and the pay was less I would still take the opportunity. I felt good about her and about the office and the opportunity. I’ve been working to get into management my whole life, so this would be great!! Right now I’m office manager at a very small doctor’s office. There is only the doctor, front office person and me, so I’m not really the other persons boss so to say. So I’m keeping my fingers crossed for this one!! I’ve also been applying for other things if this doesn’t pan out of course, but I’ve interviewed for a few and this one I really felt strongly about!
Hi Lisa! Sorry I made you wait. I’m just getting up. 😉 And I do understand how hard waiting is.
Well…I’m not sure what to tell you. Let me start with some of the easier stuff.
First…congratulations of doing as well as you did. She wouldn’t have tried to get you to meet with the lead doctor if she weren’t interested. As for the posting being removed…well, that just means they think they have a candidate out of their finalists – and you may still be the one they choose. Possibly she still wants the lead doctor to meet with her finalists and she hasn’t been able to get him to make the call. And when she mentioned “or letting you know the position has been filled”, that’s just good practice on her part so as not to imply an offer.
The fact that neither she nor the doctor hasn’t gotten back to you doesn’t mean you didn’t get it. But it could mean they are talking to the other person. Or it could mean this is her communication style and if you do get the job, get used to it.
I know the job itself sounds great and I like to encourage people where possible, but please forgive me…I have to mention a few things. I’m concerned about the way she trashes people who worked for and with her and that she seems to be a judging all the time: “‘tell what kind of people they were’ by the way they chose to dress.”
Plus they created this position out of what was once two positions. It could mean the workload is huge, explaining the high salary but also maybe pointing to why the person went on medical leave! (Now that last part may be totally unrelated, but worth thinking about.) And the fact that she wanted to talk at you and barely asked you anything, makes me wonder what kind of manager she’d be.
Would she ever listen? Did you feel comfortable asking her questions? How will she treat you when you don’t live up to her expectations?
I really want to tell you all signs are go for this job, but I have a question for you. If you could forget for a moment how cool the job sounds and how good the salary is, would you really want to work for this woman? Try reading what you wrote me as if you were not the person in the story. What would you tell yourself?
Now, if you can honestly say you realize how tough and nerve-wracking she and the job might be, but you feel good about it anyway since no situation is perfect, then that’s your answer.
But since that wasn’t really your question…I can assure you that from everything you told me you may very well still get the offer. Just be sure you really want it.
I wish you all the luck, Lisa, and hope that you do get the offer. Always best to be in a position to decide! Whether it’s this job or another one, I wish you a job that you really love.
Good luck! And please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Oh and I forgot to mention…….the interview lasted an hour, I sent a thank you note, and at the end of the interview she also said “You have my cell phone number right? Give me a call if you have any questions”. *SIGH* This sucks, I hate waiting. :o(
Hi! I had a job interview a little over a week ago (not this past Thurs, but the Thurs before). I was actually scheduled for the interview the week before, but she had to cancel a couple hours before my interview because the office got a call that the joint commission was on their way over. She called me the next day and rescheduled. I’m a bit confused though. I felt good about the interview, yet it was a little odd. So I thought I’d write and get a little advice. The interview was to be a manager at a medical office, I would be in charge of all the nursing staff and clerical staff (about 20 people) and there are 8 doctors in the office. It’s not a privately owned office, it is with a big medical company that has hospitals and doctor’s offices. Well when I went to the interview I met with one person……the person who would be my boss and is a regional manager. We seemed to hit it off, but it was odd to me because she barely asked me any questions. She only had my resume in front of her and said she saw where I worked and that I have been/am part of a community service group. She asked me if I would be able to make 7am meetings 3 or 4 times a month which I said was no problem. Then she asked the basic “what are your strong points. What are things you need to work on” questions, but then that was about it. She then told me the chain of command and what her position entailed. She told me about all the new construction they were doing next door and what doctors offices were moving in there (those will be part of her area). Then she told me why they were looking for someone for this position. She said there used to be two people, but they moved on to a special program that the company was doing with electronic patient files. So then they hired one person to do the job last November. This person ended up going on medical leave pretty quickly after getting the position and I guess has mostly been on medical leave ever since. When she was in the position she said she didn’t do a good job, never listened to the employees and they quickly lost respect for her. As soon as her FMLA ran out she decided to leave the company. I guess while on leave she was looking for a new job, but just couldn’t find one. So the person interviewing me was going on and on about her and how horrible she was…….she even told me the woman’s first name which I thought was odd. After telling me all that she told me she wanted to give me a tour of the building. She took me around the whole building explaining every part and how things worked. She discussed with me the new doctors that were hired, the plans for the future and the new people they were going to need to hire (they needed more nurses for the new doctors). We talked about their plans and how beautiful the building was. Then we went back in the interview room and she asked if I had any questions. I asked her what the salary range for the position was and she told me I’d have to contact their HR dept to find out because she didn’t know and it was just one more thing she didn’t need to know (it didn’t seem like she likes to do interviewing). Then she told me she was going to try and grab the lead doctor to do a second interview with me. She was gone a few minutes and came back and said he was way to busy with patients. She asked me if he could give me a call so I didn’t have to drive back over (I live 45 minutes away). I said that was fine. She told me she was going to try and get him to call me that night because she wanted to try get this all figured out and done by Monday. Then she told me that what she thought the job salary range was…….she said she wasn’t positive, but she was pretty sure that was the range. I was excited because it would be a HUGE pay increase for me!!!!! Then she told me that HR would call me with the job offer and salary offer……..then after a pause she said “or letting you know the position has been filled”. I said ok. Then she asked if I had any questions and I asked her about the dress code since everyone was wearing scrubs, I wasn’t sure if management could wear scrubs or had to dress up. She said the manager could do either. So then we talked awhile about wearing scrubs and how much more comfy they are. Then she was telling me that I would see at meetings how some people wear scrubs and some dress up and that I could “tell what kind of people they were” by the way they chose to dress. Then she went on to tell me more about the women who had the job previously and other things she did wrong. She told me she was looking for someone who would jump in and do whatever job was needed even pulling charts or whatnot. I told her I understood that she wanted someone that was a manager, but didn’t feel they were “above” anyone and she said exactly. So anyway, I left the interview feeling good and feeling like she was interested. Though I thought it was odd I wasn’t asked many questions and didn’t really get to talk or “sell” myself. I wasn’t sure if it was because maybe my resume “sold” me or what. So then I was waiting for the doctor to call for the second interview. By Tuesday I still hadn’t heard anything and she had said she wanted to try and decide by Monday. I called and left her a message asking her if the doctor was still going to call me. She never called me back. So now it’s Saturday and I’ve heard NOTHING!!! I never got a call from the doctor, never got a call from HR, no rejection letters or anything. I saw they took the posting down on Thursday. Does this mean I didn’t get the job or they weren’t interested? I’m super confused. I’ve never had an interview where I wasn’t asked many questions or that they went on and on about the previous person. I’m not sure if that’s all good or bad……..not to mention that I was told the doctor would call and he hasn’t!! Which by the way, he wouldn’t be my boss, she would, and he’s not the one deciding about the position, so I’m not sure if it matters. I’m just at a loss, I want this position SO bad……it would be a wonderful opportunity for me and one I’ve been looking for for a long time!! What are your thoughts?
Now for your question, Brad. Again, thanks for your patience. it’s a hectic time here for me. But I know how hard this waiting is for you!
This is a tough one. CIOs and others at that level can be hard to read. Having worked in technology myself, they are a tough breed. 🙂
My guess is that there is at least one other person who is being strongly considered. But it does sound as if you’ve done very well and they are still highly interested. Mentioning the competition to you is probably not so much a preparation for letdown (since your contact may not even know the end result yet) as sound business practice. They have to be very careful at this point so nothing they say is perceived as an “offer”. I myself have had to be cool to a top candidate for this very reason.
So the best I can tell you is that it sounds like you’re still very much in the running – but it’s not a done deal. I have my fingers and everything else crossed for you.
I think you’ve handled this great and if for any reason you don’t get it, it’s just about the fit. And remember…should there be a “no” – keep that door open!
Good luck! Please let us know.
Ronnie Ann
Hey Brad! This is it. I moved everything over so the posts and comments are all here. Sorry for any confusion. Will do my best to clear up any problems. Thanks for hanging in with me during the transition!
And please help me by letting me know if there are any other problems and what they are. You know how hard moving is! 🙂
Ronnie Ann
The instructions are not very clear on how to go to the New Work Coach. Could you provide a link?
Allright, I had what I hope to be my final interview today. The person I actually interviewed with was the CIO.
It was definatley the most difficult interview to date. The questions were a little more pointed. I kind-of exepected it to be more rough as I anticipated the personality of a high level executive.
Overall I felt positive afterwards, however I don’t feel I performed as well as my past meetings. He went a little more in-depth on what I knew about the operations of the company. I answered to the best of my ability, but since I have not started working for them of-course there is allott I don’t know.
I sent my customary thank you notes afterwards to both the CIO and the hiring manager. This time I included a list of references and said feel free to call them should they feel it would make thier decision easier.
I got a reply back from the hiring manager, thanking me for the references, and saying that they are going through evaluations, and that they will be in touch soon. He ended by saying that there has been allott of interest/competition for the position.
As usual I am not sure how to read the e-mail. On one hand, the fact that he took the time to write back is positive. On the other, the mention about interest/competition may be setting me up for an inevitable let down.
Any thoughts?
Wuhoo! Thanks for letting us know.
Believe me, Brad…there are more than a few times when I’m not right! 🙂 But sure glad this time I was. It just felt like they really like you and aren’t ready to let you go if they can help it.
Hoping for more good news soon. Please let us know! And again… congratulations on your upcoming/recent marriage.
Ronnie Ann
Just an update. I got an e-mail from the recruiter today wanting to synch schedules, so the VP could meet with me next week. Yeaa… Looks like I am through to the 3rd round!!
You were right on Ronnie, just when I thought I might be out, you told me things were still looking good.
I will keep you updated.
Hi Dreamer!
Thanks for filling us in. Since you wouldn’t have been happy with that offer, you made the right decision for you.
Good luck finding a job that better meets your needs. And meanwhile, maybe see what you can do about getting the money you deserve where you are.
Ronnie Ann
…and thanks Brad for your advice. That makes me even more sure I did the right thing by turning it down. There weren’t any commissions; bonuses were iffy, at best. So …this makes me feel even better. She only bumped my pay 6%, meaning only a $65 pay increase from my current salary, after taxes. That would have gotten me gas for my car…not worth what it would have taken to start over in a new company, learn a new environment/people/process, on top of doing twice as much as I’m doing now! 🙂 Thanks all!
The rest of the story…. ok, I called the person I interviewed with (her instructions) and told her I appreciated the offer and I was just calling to see who did I need to speak with regarding the details of the offer. She told me that she was the one and that she would pass it on. I then asked if the salary was negotiable. She said everything is negotiable, what was my concern? I told her the only concern I had was the offered salary. I explained to her about the extensive research I’d done …blah, blah…and how the amount offered was well below what was considered the market average. I went throught the whole script. She told me she’d taken my current pay and added 6%. She then said she’d offered me above what was slotted…blah, blah, …and how the person before me worked for $20,000 below the offer (maybe that’s why she left?)… After she’d hemmed and hawed, she said she would call her “folks” but she was sure they couldn’t extend the salary range. I told her thanks and she said she’ll call me back.
After a couple hours she called back to say, they couldn’t get even close to my requirements. I very politely thanked her and asked her to keep me in mind if another opportunity came up that I may be a match for. She said she would definitely want to keep my resume and that she was going to try to match me with another position somewhere else in the company.
Ronnie, I KNOW the salary range for the position I applied for was way off from the offer they made; I had a very reliable source so I know if I’d accepted anything less than what I knew the position was worth, I wouldn’t have been happy there. I would have felt they’d low-balled me and it would have made me one of those folks who works in a place only until the next offer came in. And that offer came in at $20,000 below the AVERAGE! And this company is a Fortune 500 company so I know my request was reasonable (and I didn’t let the “tee’d off” get the best of me) and I stayed 110% positive throughout the whole process.
So now I wait to see if any of my other resumes comes to fruition. Worse case scenario, I stay in the job that I’m in for now, which isn’t that bad at all. It sure helped I already had a job I didn’t mind staying with, it made the process a lot less stressful. I didn’t feel pressured to just take what they gave.
Until the next episode… Thanks so much for your advice! I truly appreciated it. 🙂
Oh man…congratulations Brad! Would be so great to come back from your honeymoon to a new job. Fingers, etc. crossed for you.
And thanks for the sound advice for Dreamer. Each industry and circumstance is different so I’m sure Dreamer appreciates your thoughts. I know I do. 🙂
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie, I will just wait and see. If I don’t hear back by next Wednesday I will either call or send another e-mail.
I am leaving for my Honeymoon next Friday, so if they want to schedule something for the next week they are just going to be out of luck.
Dreamer – I have heard as a general rule, if you are leaving your current position for a new position in another company the standard offer is a 10% increase. Not sure if this is true or not, but just what I have heard. Not sure if you are also taking into account potential commissions or bonus.
I had an offer not too long ago where they were offering the same base pay as I have now, but were trying to spin it by saying that the potential was higher due to a quarterly bonus. I turned it down, because I am not going to risk my guaranteed base for potential upside. I guess everyone has to outweigh the plus and minus and come to a personal decision, also taking into consideration future earnings as well.
Hi Dreamer!
First I want to congratulate you for getting the offer. Obviously, that’s the first step of any salary negotiation. 🙂
It sounds like you have a very good grasp of the whole salary and range and it would be presumptuous of me to even try to come up with a number or percentage without knowing ALL the details and industry.
The best thing I can tell you is what I do when I negotiate for salary. I tell them that I am very happy to have gotten the offer, but I do have some concerns. (Using their language back is a good thing.) You can then briefly explain that you had taken on a lot of extra responsibilities in your last job and your salary never caught up with that, so you were expecting a good bump up in this new job. Then (again briefly), mention the midpoint of the range and say you would like something closer to that. And then stop talking. See how she responds.
From there, if you think there is really good growth potential for you and you like the company and job a lot, do your best to get a few thousand more or whatever your true minimum would be, but make sure if they don’t match your new minimum and you are thinking of turning it down completely that you aren’t spiting yourself. Up-front negotiations are VERY important since they set the stage for the rest of your time at this company. But clearly balance the pluses and minutes for you before turning them down cold.
I really like how well prepared you are and that you are not willing to accept just anything like a hungry puppy dog. Just engage in the negotiation with an eye toward making it work for both of you, and I think you’ll be pleased.
Good luck! Please keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
…..and after extensive research, I’ve learned that the offer is just barely over the lowest end of the range for this position!!! There’s over a $35,000 increase of a range for this position!! And as mentioned before, I’m bringing extensive knowledge and experience to this organization, not to mention, saving them much money since I already have the “certification” that would cost the company over $30,000 to achieve on anyone without it, to work in this building! I know it’s all business and nothing personal but come on……!!!!
Now, with the additional factual information, please help me decide what amount I should negotiate for…the average (middle of the range) would be a $15000 increase from the amount offered, not to mention “I” feel I’m worth more than average…
Ok, I finally got the electronic copy of the offer (FEDEX hardcopy is on the way) but…. it’s lower than I expected. In fact, it’s lower than the low end of my pre-set acceptable range! I know this company can pay better (Fortune 100 or 500) and I feel they’re trying to see “how low can they go”. And it has me frustrated right now. I think they’re using my current salary as a basis but when I started working at the place I’m at now, I was just getting back into the workplace and somewhat “settled” just to get my foot in the doors. Since starting, I’ve been assigned to a position (with current company) doing 2 to 3 time more duties than when originally assigned. I’ve been promised the “promotion” but they are a little slow in coming along.
Ok, back to the story…this company, I feel, is offering me a lower amount because of what they assume I’m satisfied with with my current company. According to the salary research sites I’ve been to, the AVERAGE salary, in this area, for the title I’m applying for is $15,000 more! And I’m bringing many years of experience, plus some additional knowledge they know and have expressed would highly benefit them. So, why the low offer and what do I do now?
I know I won’t accept the position at the salary they’re offering now and I get the feeling the HR person knew I probably wouldn’t because she started our conversation with “I’m just calling with some good news, I hope, for you. ….once you’ve had a chance to go through everything, call me back and we can talk if you have any concerns.” Now, mind you, she’s the person I’ll be working beneath and she’s also the one who interviewed me, and has spoken with the clients and KNOW they want me…NOW.
My question is, how much of the $15000 should I attempt to negotiate for? The amount they’re offering now is not worth the time it would take me to pack my desk to move. And now that I’ve gotten tee’d off, my lowest acceptable salary has risen $3000! *smile
Please respond as soon as possible since I’m suppose to speak with her tomorrow. Thanks!
Hi Brad!
Thanks for the update. To be honest…this still sounds hopeful. Considering the huge deal of a few weeks ago and how busy everyone is, four days is not all that long. Really.
It’s like dog years vs. people years. 🙂 What feels like a looong time to those of us waiting to hear about the job, is only a blink of an eye in executive days. And a month is not a long time at all considering everything, even though I really get that it feels that way.
The poor HR manager may be having a devil of a time getting that VP to give her any time. He may be traveling and/or in constant meetings. I’ve been in situations where it took a couple of weeks just to get a top exec to squeeze in time for an interview that was very important to her staff.
If you haven’t heard anything by about Wednesday of next week, you might want to try calling. That would be perfectly ok. Just say you are checking in about the phone interview with the VP and also want to make sure there isn’t anything else they need from you in the meantime.
Unless there’s an important piece of the puzzle I’m missing, it still sounds pretty good to me. And, if for any reason they aren’t interested (hope not!!!) you’ll probably find out when you call and not have to be in limbo any more. Meanwhile, take a few deep breaths (in AND out) and have yourself the best weekend you can, letting all this go until next week. You’ve done your best. It’s pretty much out of your hands now.
Good luck with your phone interview. More updates please!!! (Hoping it’s good news soon.)
Ronnie Ann
OK…So here is the update. I had the second interview on Monday. It was Orrigionally scheduled for last Wednesday, but the VP wanted to participate and his schedule did not allow.
When I did show up on Wednesday, I was told that the VP was unable to attend, again do to scheduling issues, but I would meet with two other people in the organization.
No Problem….I felt my interview went well. I believe I represented my qualifications well. The interviwers and I seemed to get along well and spoke about some past expierences and personal stuff.
As I was getting ready to leave and on the phone was the HR manager, who apoligized for the schedule mix-up and explained she would get a phone interview with myself and the VP by the end of the week.
After getting home I sent an e-mail to the hiring manager who I had first met with, the two individuals who I inerviewed with, and the HR manager. I thanked them for thier time and re-affirmed my interest in the position.
I got a responce back from the hiring manager thanking me for my continued interest in the position and saying that they are looking to make a quick decision, but they all need to get togeather and compare notes.
He also encouraged me to work with the HR manager to set up a phone interview with the VO.
The responce I got back from the HR manager was basically “I will get back to you”. Well anyway,I know it has only been 4 days, but it would be nice to hear back either way if they are interested or not. It has been a month since I first got contacted by the company and met with the hiring manager. They keep on saying that they want to make a quick decision, but they have been pretty slow up until now. Hopefully I will get either a conversation or an offer or a third interview with the VP.
Hi Doug!
First, let me say how sorry I am that you didn’t get the job. I hope a better one comes along soon!
As for the quick response…you’re right. It’s not all that common to hear back that soon. But decisions about whether there is a good match or not can often be made immediately.
Having done quite a few one-on-one and group interviews myself, I can tell you that sometimes we see people we genuinely like, but for whatever reason we know it just won’t work. So your instincts about it going well might be right on – after all they kept you for two hours and you got to meet the department head. Trust me, if they weren’t interested, you never would have gotten that far!
It’s like a great date with someone who you know you never want to get serious about. There’s no easy explanation…you just know. But the exact same mannerisms, responses, attitude, etc. could be just what they are looking for next time. So keep being yourself.
I’m amazed at how considerate they were in letting you know within a few days. MANY people reading this are envious – even though it wasn’t a “yes”. Might be a good person to send a lovely thank you note to anyway, letting him or her know you appreciate their letting you know so quickly and that you hope s/he keeps you in mind if another position opens up that might be a better match. Sometimes something as simple as that may pay off in the long run.
In the meantime, good luck finding the right job for you! 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi…
I had an interview at 11 am Friday morning that ended about 1 pm. I met with 2 different people, initially with the Director of Human Resources and then the head of the department. I thought the interview process went well. I wouldn’t have changed anything. I was told they hoped to hire someone within 2-3 weeks. However, on the following Monday morning, I received an email saying they were pursuing other candidates. I wasn’t shocked about not being chosen but I was shocked at how quick a response came. I guess the interview was not nearly as positive as I guess. Any thoughts on how they could have made such a fast conclusion?
Hi CinnCity78!
Thanks for clarifying. So sorry I misunderstood. Hard to get all the facts from one comment and answer intelligibly. 🙂
I still think the first thing is to make sure you feel fine about the whole thing. So let me try to help with that. As I’ve said, I had many jobs I left voluntarily, and while it was a red flag to a lot of places, all you need is one right employer to say “yes”.
And you are right…it is not that uncommon, although in a tight economy it’s an easy way to screen. So hone that cover letter, Cinn, and make sure it sells you. You might even want to try a resume that has a section on top that highlights your strengths or things you’ve done you want them to see up front. Also, if you can, come up with something to put in that 6-month gap. Did you help out anywhere? Volunteer? Travel? Take a class? Try to write a book? Star in a movie. 🙂 If not for the resume, at least have a good explanation for an interview.
And now that you’ve explained that you aren’t interested in advertising any more…GREAT! That is a good reason. So have a GOOD explanation for why the new field is something you very much want. (This should be in your cover letter along with some statement about wanting to find a company to grow with.) The past is the past; a potential employer wants to know that you aren’t going to try them on for size too and then split.
Would temping work for you? It’s a good way to let a company see you and try you out without all that resume stuff getting in the way. And if you’re already temping but not at a company you have any interest in, ask for another assignment. Totally ok to do that when temping. And of course, keep looking on the outside too.
Good luck! Please keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
Thanks so much for getting back to me-really appreciate it. I used the word “shifty” to describe my resume because I feel that this is how employers view it. They instantly hone in on the fact that I voluntarily left most of the jobs on my resume before finding a new one. There is even a six month gap in between one of the jobs. I think this raises a red flag for them, and they may feel that I’m a “risk”.
I usually don’t focus on the negative aspects of my job-honestly, the reason for my decision to leave the last position @ the ad agency was because of new management on the client’s side. I got along great w. my superiors and their staff, but once client changes were made, everyone was under a tremendous amount of pressure, therefore it made my job very difficult. That’s when my boss felt the need to go talk to HR about my performance. I felt I was underpaid, and I felt that it would be best if I moved on, seeing as advertising wasn’t what I was really looking for, anyway.
I try my best not to convey any negativity about the companies I’ve worked for, even when prompted about things I may have “disliked”. What I don’t understand is why they feel it is so unusual for me to have had 4 jobs in the past 7 years. I’ll be 30 this year, so I don’t think it’s THAT uncommon for someone my age to move around. But as I’ve stated before, I am looking to invest and would really love to find a way to convey this to future employers, so they won’t focus so heavily on my prior reasons for leaving.
Wow…this is GREAT news Dreamer. I’ve had the nicest feedback today from my readers. Thank you SO MUCH for sharing this with us. WUHOOOO!
So happy for you. Looking forward to the rest of the story. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hey Ronnie,
I sent the email like you requested. I basically said I appreciated the time she spent with me re: the position and that I was still interested in the position. I also asked (as you suggested!) if anything else was required from me to help with the decision making process..etc. And guess what? She responded back immediately! Turns out, the company was on a short hiring freeze, just a couple days in order to brief the new director on the process. She said she’d literally just gotten the “go ahead” for my hire! She’s suppose to get back with me soon to let me know when the offer should be to me. Although I know an offer, isn’t an offer, until I actually get the letter in writing, I feel so much better knowing what the hold up was.
So, now I’m just waiting for the offer to come through! Hopefully it’ll be here sometime this week. I’m so excited but I’m trying to stay calm until I actually get the letter in hand.
Thanks so much on your suggestion to send the email today; I feel so much better knowing what’s going on.
Will keep ya’ll posted on the “rest of the story”!! 🙂
🙂
Thank you!! Best of luck with your blogging. This is a great site!!!
Theresa
Hi Theresa!
WUHOOOO! This is great news. Not that I’m surprised. Ahem. 🙂 Thanks much for the kind words.
All the best of luck to you Theresa! I wish you much happiness in your new job.
Ronnie Ann
Just an update for you Ronnie!! I got the position. You should keep at the betting thing because you were right. I was her first pick (they were hiring two people one full time and one part time)!! So I got the position I wanted and will start in two weeks. Thank you so much for your wisdom and reassurance! And good luck to those other folks that are still waiting!!
Theresa
Hmmm…I think I’ll have to double my fee. 😉
Thanks Ronnie Ann,
I’ll wait until Tuesday and if I don’t hear anything by then, I’ll send the email. I will keep you posted on how this turns out…hopefully with good news! I’m just praying something positive comes through tomorrow (Monday). That would be a perfect way to start the week!
PS. If an offer does come through, I will be asking questions about negotiations so get ready! 🙂 Thanks again.
Awww…thanks Mike.
You know, I’ve been on both sides of the table and although I’ve always been aware of how nervous people get, this blog has helped me understand it even more than I ever did!
It’s one of the reasons I put the Magic 8 Ball in my sidebar – to give people something to do while waiting. (The trick, by the way, is to keep trying the 8 Ball until you get the answer YOU want. Of course it’s not really magic. But it sure feels good to see the words “Yes definitely!”)
Hope you hear some good news soon. You sound like someone anyone would be lucky to get as an employee.
Ronnie Ann
thank you so much!! Everyone tells me it sounds good…I just can’t think of anything else. your the best Ronnie Ann
Hi Mike!
Yes. Good sign. 🙂
Although I’m only guessing, I wouldn’t worry. This sounds like it’s more about the internal process than your chances. Both may be correct. He may really want this thing decided before he leaves. And the HR person may have been giving you a later date to allow for things they have to do on their side.
Nothing you told me makes me think there’s a problem – although of course anything is possible. Even if they are REALLY interested, it may take a week or more to make you an offer.
Hope you hear those magic words you want to hear soon. Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
also before me and the supervisor left each other he wanted to make sure that he has the right number for salary correct. Good sign right?
Hi, I wanted to see your opinion. I went on an HR interview with a company that I want to work for real bad. I interviewed with her and it went well. As we spoke she wanted to make sure before we go any further that the money that they would offer would still be something that I’m interested in. It was so we went on. We finished up and she said I would hear back from her to set up a second interview within about a week or so and everything was great so from there I left. I sent a thank you email. About 2 hours later I got an email saying great news the supervisor wants to see you Friday which this was a Wednesday! I spoke to her on the phone and she said after I left she called over to the supervisor and told him about my experience and that I was a great guy so on so on. So he said great when can you get him in asap. So, I went in 2 days later and had my interview. I asked at the end how fast are you expecting to fill the position. He said this is Friday and I want to fill it by Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.
So I said great. I called the hr lady told her it went well. she called back and said that she knows he goes away at the end of the following week so she should call me in a week or so. I was confused because he said by tuesday or wednesday. What should I think of this?
This is a short version…..Please help with advice. thank you
Hi Dreamer!
Sounds like you did really well. Congratulations on how you’ve handled things so far.
I think her words about the size of this company is a big clue for why it’s taking so long. Of course there can be other explanations, but there’s a good chance that it’s simply the bureaucracy. That’s totally normal. One big company I worked for had 4 or 5 SEPARATE offices and people who had to approve an offer.
I think it would be fine if you e-mailed her letting her know you are still very interested in this job and asking if there is anything else she needs from you at this point to help things along. Short and sweet. Maybe wait until Tuesday – if you can 😉 – just to give her a day to get through her Monday to-do list.
Things sound good, although of course there’s no absolute until you are made an offer and accept. Meanwhile, prepare your range and any supporting arguments in case you need to negotiate.
Good luck, Dreamer! Please let us know what happens. I’m hoping you’ll hear good news soon.
Ronnie Ann
Hello! I’ve read through the posts here and am glad to know I’m not the only one in this situation! *you know, misery loves company! 🙂 But I’m also so very happy to hear when others have gotten the positions they wanted.
My scenario…
I was asked to come in for an initial interview just about two weeks ago; everything went well, the HR person was very casual and friendly and we ended up talking a little while about personal interests as well as her giving information about the positions she was hiring for. After giving all of the answers to her questions, and asking a couple of my own, she told me she was very impressed with my interview and resume, that she enjoyed talking with me, and she wanted to go ahead a forward me the necessary paperwork to complete. After returning home, I immediately sent an email to her letting her know I’d really enjoyed speaking with her and how excited I was about the potential position. I completed the paperwork and sent that to her also. She immediately emailed me back saying she’d spoken with the client, showed them my resume, and she wanted me to come in and do a “meet and greet” with them. This was scheduled to take place within a week’s time and was to last about 15 minutes. So, six days after the first interview, I went in to meet the clients. They all seemed excited about me coming to work there, the Director even asked me when would I be starting and even invited me to attend a meeting that was happening the next day. He then said, I know you’ll have to complete whatever paperwork you need so I’ll understand if you can’t make it, but once you start, you’re more than welcome to attend the meetings, etc…
After the “meet and greet”, I was taken back to the HR person’s office and the individual who took me to her office asked her when will I be starting and that everyone was impressed with me. She explained that there was paperwork to be done and she’ll let them know as soon as possible. After he’d left, she (the HR person) told me this, “I knew they would love you; I’m expecting you to have an offer by the end of the week. She then said, “…but I keep forgetting I’m working for a much larger company now, even though I’m almost sure it should be to you by the end of the week.” On Monday, after returing home from the “meet and greet”, I sent another email to her telling her how much I appreciated her taking the time out of her day to meet with me again and how I enjoyed meeting the clients. That was on this past Monday, it’s now Sunday and I haven’t heard anything! I guess my question is, when should I send another “follow-up” email? Or should I try to call her? I know she was trying to get the position filled quickly and the clients wanted me there as soon as possible. We never spoke about salary so I’m also a little nervous about what the potential offer may be. I don’t want to jump the gun too much but I do want to have a fair salary range prepared, just in case.
It’s so hard waiting and wondering! I’m not even sure if she’s the one who would be drawing up the offer! The last time I went on an interview, I was hired on the spot and didn’t have to go through this so I don’t even know what to expect, how long I’m suppose to wait to hear back, or when/how/if I should contact her again! Please help!
Hi tee! Yes, these are all good signs. Always helpful when you’ve talked about things the interviewer can remember. And I like that he didn’t rush you, despite how packed his schedule was.
Of course, since he is interviewing others, there’s always a possibility someone else might come along who he likes better for whatever reason. But from what you told me, it sounds like you have a very good chance.
Good luck! Please let us know.
Ronnie Ann
Oh… if it helps… I applied via email, for the job too.. and he called me the next day for the interview.
so i just had an interview a few hours ago. it was short, because he had unexpected interviews lined up that were made for him without him finding out till a few hours before i got there… hopefully im telling me that is a sign…and it didnt feel like i was being rushed out.
he seemed quite interested in the work i’ve done that related to the position. i had about 3 yrs school experience in the feild. (line cook)
he even talked tome a bit about being an artist, and what i was an Extra for.
he said he’ll call me on monday.. he said he’d call tomorrow but their quite busy on sundays… and ive been to the place before, and they really ARE busy at the end of the week…
so.. good sign?
I actually found it quite humorous too! Just kind of took me a bit aback. If she is anything like that previous supervisor that she talked to I would love to work for her. I will let you know the result when I know it. Thanks for getting back so quickly!!! Have a great weekend. Theresa
Hi Theresa!
Laughing because early on in my own interviewing career I used to be like that woman! Luckily I learned that it really was important to hear the other person talk. 🙂
But usually I only did it when I was either very interested or not interested at all. In this case, the fact that she already has a good reference for you from someone she knows well (and made a point of mentioning it), leads me to think she’s quite interested in you. No way for me to know for sure of course, but it certainly isn’t a bad sign in your case – quite the opposite.
Please let us know what happens. If I were a betting person, I’d bet you get another interview and/or an offer soon.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hello! I have a curious question for you. I had a job interview the other day for a nursing position that I am very interested in. Well,the interview was the weirdest interview I have ever had! LOL I maybe got to have 20 words in. The interviewer talked the most. She discussed the position, the benefits, the wage, and the retirement plan. All she asked me was why I wanted to change jobs. I told her I am looking for a position with a little less administrative and more patient contact. But I have never had an interview that felt more like them trying to sell me the position. LOL She also mentioned that she had talked with one of my old supervisors (whom happened to be a good friend of hers). What is your take on an interview like this??? Thanks in advance for your thoughts. Theresa
Awww! I’m so sorry Ray. I know it was a long shot, but I’m glad you gave it another shot anyway. Nothing lost by trying. I’m hoping you find an employer who will appreciate the skills you have and also your willingness to learn.
Good luck finding the right job for you!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thanks for all the advice on the interview. I didn’t get the job, but am trying for others!
Hi again Suzanne!
I remember my own time in the entertainment industry. Just a year out of grad school, I was offered a chance to go to Paris to be a product manager for CBS Records. And then a mean old VP jumped in and said I couldn’t go. I was so livid I quit and went to Club Med for two weeks. With what I know now, I would have acted differently. But you can only be who you are now. And I REALLY do get how it feels when you have a dream job almost in your grasp.
Under the circumstances, although maybe your mother or I might wait longer, I see no reason you can’t put yourself out of your misery and call. Just put yourself in a calm, positive frame of mind before calling and then be prepared for good news as well as bad, ok?
Again, the decision is yours. This is just my take on it.
Good luck. I hope to hear some happy news. But please know…what felt like a dream job for me then was replaced by many many others. There is no limit, since dreams come in many shapes and sizes – even if it doesn’t feel that way now. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thank you for your wise words. I do really value your perspective. My own mother is telling me to let it go as well, and I sure am trying my darndest, the way I have with so many other jobs I’ve interviewed for in the past, but since this is one of those once-in-a-lifetime dream job opportunites, it’s been such a battle to get it out of my head!
Most of my entire job history has been situated in the entertainment industry, where results come as quick as a New York minute, which is why I guess the silence/no news/no communication is quite scary to me, it being a new experience.
It’s now been 2 weeks since my second interview, and 1 week since I was told I’d be hearing again from my interviewer. I sent a follow-up e-mail the day I was told I’d hear back. Do you think making a phone call at this point is ok?
Hi Sarah!
Please don’t worry. This is totally ok. It sometimes takes a day or two – or more – even for a job like this where they need to hire quickly. She may be seeing a few other people first and/or the owners may not have been available yet. Even a few days more would not be out of the norm. I’ll bet you hear from her one way or the other before close of business on Monday.
Hoping you hear good news soon! Please let us know.
Ronnie Ann
Hi. I Just Had a Question hopefully some of you can help me out. I Went and applied at a nice restaurant down town on Tuesday they called me that night and a man asked me to come in for an interview the following day.(Yesterday) So I went yesterday and Interviewed with a woman She said her family owned the restaurant. The interview went well I Think. I told her how i had just moved here from Michigan and She told me that her Former Administrative Assistant was from michigan but she moved back. And said how great she was. She then told me that they were also hiring for that position ” Maybe we can look into that if you want” she said. I applied to be a hostess, she asked if i would also be interested in serving I said Yes. She asked “When would you be able to start *pause* if we did hire you’ I said Asap.At the end of interview she “Ok im going to talk to the owners and see if they want to do a second interview”. That was yestarday around 2. its now 11:30 the following day. And I still haven,t heard anything back. What Do You Guys think. Is that Bad? Id really appreciatte any opinions.
Hi Larry!
Well, congratulations on how well you’ve done so far! Those sound like great signs for sure. But just as we’ve seen in our Presidential primary season, anything might happen. There is no lock until you get the nomination…uh…offer.
Just keep being yourself, since they seem to like that guy a lot. While it does seem VERY hopeful, you still have to seal the deal.
Good luck! And please let us know what happens. I love stories like this. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
I live in Ohio and interviewed twice for a job in Alabama. Next week, they are bringing me down to Alabama for an interview and they’re picking up everything, including airfare, hotel, and car rental. Also, in talking to the people that I listed as references, they said that they had talked to the interviewer and said that everything went well and that they believe I am a lock for the job (2 are my professors in school right now). Are these really good signs that I more than likely have a job?
Dear CinnCity78,
Sorry it took me a little while to get back to you. I wasn’t quite sure how to answer.
You wrote “I just haven’t really found a company that I LIKE-the pay usually stinks, and I tend to move on after awhile. I think this has something to do with why I’m not getting any call backs. Anyone have any advice on how to explain my shifty resume to potential employers moving forward? I really would like to find a company with whom I can eventually invest.”
In my earlier years, I had a history of leaving jobs after a year or two. But although not every employer would look at me, I got interviews and jobs. I think there is something else going on, but I can’t be sure what it is from such a distance. But when I read words like “shifty resume” I can’t help wondering if there is something you need to do to feel better about the product you are selling: YOU!
My best advice under your circumstances is to make sure your resume AND cover letter sell you. Since you were/are in advertising, I will assume you know a little about this. 🙂 Make sure it focuses on the positive aspects and shows some sort of growth so you can use this as your logic for leaving. No one wants to hire a person they think is going to be unhappy no matter what they do. So your best bet is to start to market yourself as a positive person who can make the best of things and doesn’t just cut and run. Your cover letter is where you have the best chance of presenting this side of yourself.
Have good answers for why you left. Hint: making it about how awful your last employer was will not get you the next job. Make it about being offered a better opportunity or more salary or something else positive. And also make it clear (maybe even in the cover letter) that you are now looking to find a place where you can stay and grow – and that you think this might be that sort of place. (Have good reasons why for the interview.)
Corny as it sounds, potential employers can sense when you are angry at former employers or blame them in some way. If this is the case, please try to let as much of that go as possible. You are building your future. The past is gone already. Why give it any power or let it get in your way? 🙂
I wish you luck in finding a job that really feels right for you and where you feel right for the employer. (For resume and cover letter help, you might want to try Susan Ireland’s resume website.)
Please let us know when you find the right job. I am betting it will come your way once you brush up your marketing tools and shift full-gear into a more positive “marketing yourself” mode!
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi there,
It’s been almost three months since I VOLUNTARILY left my job. Foolish, I know, but there’d been a lot of changes going on per the client’s side, and it was putting a lot of strain on my boss, which in turn came down on me. I was working as an admin for an ad agency, and was waaay under paid for what I was doing. I actually had been looking for a job the previous fall, but called off my job search because it was too harrowing to try to schedule interviews. Plus, I was promised a raise come January, once I hit a year. January came, and I got a call to HR. Suddenly, my boss has a SLEW of complaints that he never even bothered to address with me. I took it very personally and decided to resign. I offered my two weeks, but he told HR that particular day would be my last day. Basically told me to shove my two weeks were the sun don’t shine. I guess for the sake of not having to comply with unemployment pay, they agreed to still pay me for the two weeks. Anyway, I figured I could easily land another admin job with my experience, unfortunately, it hasn’t been that easy. I have a history of leaving jobs every two years. I just haven’t really found a company that I LIKE-the pay usually stinks, and I tend to move on after awhile. I think this has something to do with why I’m not getting any call backs. Anyone have any advice on how to explain my shifty resume to potential employers moving forward? I really would like to find a company with whom I can eventually invest.
Many thanks!
Oh Suzanne! I wish I could tell you more than you already know, but since you are the person feeding me my information, I can only reflect back on what I read. Relative to what most people tell me, you have had good feedback – even if only in the fact that they made such an effort to keep you interested and on top of things. Even the joking is feedback. There is something to be read into all that. It’s not always words.
But that said, all you know is you are one of the finalists. I can see why, having come in close but no offer a few times, you feel so nervous at what feels like silence. But it’s only a few days since he promised you an e-mail. You can also see this as good news, since you have not been told “no”. Maybe it’s a tough choice or maybe they found one other last-minute candidate they are considering. These things happen. References will be asked for if and when you are their final choice. (Some places do it early; others wait or simply forget.)
Oh…and as far as my use of the word “slim”, I worried my implied smile might not translate. I was just letting you know I’m on YOUR side. I apologize for not choosing a better word or being more clear. 🙂
I wish there was more I could offer, but all I have left is to hope strongly you get the job. I don’t know if these words will speak to you, but I read a nice reminder today on my pal Liz’s blog, A Rendezvous of Musings:
-> Turn Up
-> Be Present
-> Tell the Truth
-> Let go of the Outcome
That’s the best interview advice I know. Breathe. Let go. It’s out of your hands now. And that’s really ok. Really. 🙂
Much luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I actually did just read the entire thread of responses and because I’m going through such a similar process as everyone else posting here, I found myself rather weepy-eyed to those who got their jobs, and for those who didn’t, I felt the sting as if it were my own, because so many of these stories are so familiar to my own experiences in this ongoing pursuit of finding a (good) job. (I was so eager to post after only reading up to the end of Jason’s story, and after I posted, I went back to read the rest! I’m so glad I did.)
I really, really appreciate your speedy reply just because as you’ve been reitirating over and again, waiting can be such torture, so your timeliness means the world to a nail-biting, anxiety filled worrier like myself. That’s only how I am while waiting to hear back, not how I am as an employee! 🙂
If you don’t mind indulging my neurotic paranoia, I have a few questions:
My contact/interviewer/prospective boss has been more than great with communicating with me in regards to his whole process, i.e. when he’ll have his final list of candidates for that face to face interview, when he’ll contact me to let me know of that list, when he’ll be back in his office (he too had to fly across the country to meet me at the office I’d be relocating to if I got the job), when he’ll contact me with his final decision, etc. This past Friday was when he said he’ll have his decision, and it’s now Tuesday morning his time, and I still haven’t heard from him. I understand circumstances happen, but I thought maybe he’d at least let me know if the process has been delayed a few days or whatever, since he’s previously been so available to me. Am I over reacting on that?
It’s nice that you said I’ve had such wonderful feedback all along, but I actually haven’t. I’ve been aware this entire time, that although my contact is great at communicating, he is also good at remaining impartial, so I actually don’t know how I’ve fared with my competition (with the exception of telling me he was impressed when I got the e-mail asking if I’d come out for the 2nd interview, and at the end of the 2nd interview when I asked how many other candidates there were and he told me the entire situation of how many resumes there were, how many he interviewed over the phone, and how many he brought out to meet. He quipped something along the lines implying that choosing to bring me out was a good idea). This is why I was so nervous when I didn’t receive any type of communication from him on Friday. Again, am I just paranoid? On Friday, I sent him a “still interested” e-mail, which I now think was done hastily because I should’ve waited longer to do that.
Also, just curious as to why you used the word “slim” when noted that there’s a chance it could go to the other person? 🙂
I consider myself a very confident, go-getter, driven type of person, but my spirit has been broken a bit with the current job hunt. This is the third position in the past few months where I’ve been a top 2 candidate out of dozens of applicants, and even hundreds in one of the instances. Those other 2 positions turned out I remained #2 choice and was edged out by someone else, after feeling that I did extremely well in all the interviews, so I just don’t know anymore! In this dream job interview, I again felt like I did extremely well, especially since the interviewer was so bold as to make jokes about irrelevant things giving me an edge. I even felt in that instant, “this job is mine!”
One commonality I’ve noticed in this entire thread is references. I haven’t been asked for references! Is that a red flag?
Again, thanks for your input. Hopefully soon I’ll be able to sleep well again!
Hi Suzanne!
Wow! You’ve really been lucky to have had such wonderful feedback all along. Sounds like you did all the right things – and so did they. If only all potential employers were that good at keeping you informed. But all that feels like nothing now, I’m sure…you just want to hear the words “We’d like to make you an offer!”
Glad you enjoyed the Jason thread. There are a few others with equally happy endings you might find inspiring. Nice to know they help give comfort. 🙂
As you well know, all you can do now is try to be patient just a bit longer. The contact person may be sick or may be handling an emergency. And, even on the very slim chance they did make an offer to another person, that person can still turn them down. All things are possible and, as a close friend always reminds me, no news is no news.
I have my fingers crossed for you. Please let us know what happens. I love dream jobs and happy endings. And…if for any reason this job doesn’t come through, remember that “no” can also be the beginning of “yes”. If it’s your dream job, you can use the opportunity to stay in touch and let them know you’d be interested if another job opens up – or even some consulting work. You never know when something even better might arise. But of course, I’m hoping you get this one.
Good luck, Suzanne!
Ronnie Ann
I just read the timeline of responses with Jason from the beginning of this thread back in January and was very happy that he got his happy ending!
In the past month I endured a phone interview and then was flown across the country for the 2nd/face-to-face interview. I am one out of two candidates up for this position, which is my DREAM JOB and suffice to say I’ve been a nervous wreck playing the waiting game.
The person I’ve been on the ongoing e-mail exchange with in regards to the position has always been very good at communicating to me the timeline of how everything will happen, including when I’ll hear from him next. This past Friday was the first time I anticipated an e-mail from him and didn’t get one. That was the day I thought I’d know if it was the first day of the rest of my life, or not. I am unwillingly letting my doubt creep in now, but I hope I’m just being impatient!
I felt really good after my face to face interview, and my prospective employer was even joking around with me because we had such a good repoire. He also responded to my thank you letter, which I didn’t expect, and he attached a list of the company benefits, but I’m also under the assumption that the other candidate got this list as well.
I hope I get my happy ending too. Thanks for writing this article. It’s helping me stay positive and hopeful!
I so agree grandteton! That’s why I wrote this a while back: A Plea for Mercy to Human Resource Professionals (and Anyone Else Interviewing People for Jobs). Although I know my writing about it is just a drop in the sand, this is definitely a process that needs an overhaul.
I still hope you get a nice surprise. Ya never know. So many things can happen that might delay responses. You certainly seem to have done all you could. Then again, you also never know when a better job might come along. 🙂
Good luck! And thanks for adding so well to the discussion.
Ronnie Ann
I had a recent 1 1/2 hour interview that I thought went extremely well. A partner at the firm told me that I would be hearing back from the firm the following week. I followed up with a thank you letter and a telephone call several days later and left a message reitterating my interest in the position. I haven’t received a call back after several weeks. I have given up trying to read people and their expectations. I can live with not landing a job; but it is frustrating when you don’t ever hear back from someone.
Hello again Corina,
I’m not an expert as I said, so I’m hoping someone else will add what they know.
The way I see it, if it was a problem before for you, then you might want to let them know yourself. If they consider it a problem when you tell them, then it would have been a problem later. But if you tell them yourself and explain what you just told us, then you have a better chance of making sure they know the whole thing will be easy. It also makes you seem on top of things which is a plus for a potential employee. If you don’t tell them, they may assume it’s more of a problem than it is.
But please…this is only my opinion. Do what you think is right. Or wait and see if someone else offers some first-hand experience. I have to go out now, but when I come back I may post this as a question and see if we can get some help!
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I actually checked with an attorney this week and he assured me there should not be any problems transferring my current visa to the new employer. And I have all the information needed give to the prospective employer about the transfer.
Do you think I could e-mail the HR person and let her know about the visa or should I call her? And how can I bring this issue up? Or should I wait until I get the job offer?
Please let me know what you think!! Thanks so much for your opinion.
Corina
Hi Corina!
First let me congratulate you on making it to the second interview. Sounds like it went well.
Unfortunately, I am not an expert when it comes to this issue. I do know that when I used to work for a University and we hired people with Visas, sometimes there were issues about transferability.
Equal opportunity employer is a policy that applies to how open they are to hiring, but it doesn’t apply to the specifics of immigration rules. If I were you, I would arm myself with the knowledge of what the rules are in your case. If you can, find out whether or not you can transfer the visa to this new job. Since you’ve had a problem with this before, it would be a good idea to make sure you know what the regulations are so neither you nor your prospective employer are surprised.
Also, now that you’ve made it through the second interview, I would suggest calling your contact person and letting him or her know your situation. If you can assure them truthfully that there is no problem, than that shouldn’t affect your chances in most cases – especially if they really want you. It’s not a good idea to keep this hidden. And it’s important that you know the rules yourself.
And if anyone else out there has some advice for Corina, please let us know!
I wish you much luck in making this work out for yourself. Buena suerte!
Ronnie Ann
I had my second interview with a great company yesterday. I think it went well I met the staff I would be working with and they asked me a few specific questions on my skills and certain things that might come up on a day to day basis. It seemed like they wanted to know if I would be a good fit for the department. They were all really nice and they cracked jokes during the meeting, which made me feel very comfortable.
I was very relaxed and smile or laughed when they made jokes and I really think I could get along with the team just great. I hand delivered handwritten thank you notes to each person I met.
I am quite stressed out because I would love to work at this company and the job seemed like just what I am looking for right now.
My first interview lasted two and a half hours and then got called back to come in for a second one. I’m a little nervous because I currently have an H1B work visa (I’m originally from Venezuela) and I did not mention this issue to the HR manager on the first interview because I was unsure if they would eliminate me as a candidate. They are an Equal Opportunity Employer, so I figured it should be fine to transfer my visa from my current employer to the new company, but it happened to me before that I got a job offer and they took it back because they didn’t want to deal with the visa transfer. Do you have thoughts on this particular issue?
Thanks!
Corina
Hi Brad!
Congratulations on how you’ve handled this so far. I love the way you used the huge deal as a reason to both remind them about you and let them know you are one sharp dude. The fact that the interviewer kept you around after the first interview so that you could meet his boss is a very good sign.
Qualifying other candidates is about process. Most companies want to have some choice even if they meet a great candidate on the first interview. It neither reflects badly nor in your favor; it’s just process. And the fact that you are employed is usually a plus. Although it’s not fair, companies often feel more comfortable taking what others want. It’s kind of like when you run into someone you thought you might want to date and they are out with someone else – they suddenly seem just a bit more attractive even though they are the same person!
Although there is no way for me to know any more than you do about what they are going to do, from what you tell me, there is a very good chance you will get to round two. Please let us know if you do! I love to root for the people who visit here.
Good luck Brad! So far, I think you’re doing great. Would love to hear what happens. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Last week I had an interview with company that really like and a job that I really like. I am actually employed currently and was not actively looking, but a recruiter contacted me, and the position was so excellent that I went on the interview.
The interview seemed to go great. After meeting with the hiring manager for about 45 minutes, he asked me to stick around for a half hour to meet his boss. I felt we all hit it off well. After the interview I was told that they would be making decisions on a second round w/ in 2 weeks.
The next day I sent off a thank you note. Today I read in the news that the company just struck a huge deal. After reading the news I sent a note of congratulations to the hiring manager. I got a reply thanking me for paying attention to the news, and that they will keep in touch regarding next steps and they are qualifying several candidates…I guess I wanted to hear that I am the best candidate and you are hired. He was not tipping his hand either way.
I am not sure what to make of it. Is they are qualifying several candidate a hint that they are looking at other people more seriously, or should I take the reply alone to be positive?
Also I am not sure if the fact that I am already employed hurts or helps me?
I made it clear to them that I was not activley looking, but my interest in the position was great enough for me to leave my current company and come work for them… Any Thoughts?
Hey Lisa!
Congratulations. I was hoping to hear the good news from you.
Obviously I can’t tell you what to do since I don’t know all the details of your personal situation and, of course, as you know, my crystal ball is in the shop. 🙂 But, with that caveat in mind, this is how I look at it:
For the same amount of money (net) plus maybe a bit extra, you have a chance to start a job you really like NOW. Who knows how long it will be before another good opportunity comes along? Plus, this one has growth potential.
So let’s say you are investing a couple of years now for greater growth potential later. You could look at that as an investment in yourself, rather than focusing on the cost-of-commute details. If you were offered an extra degree right now that promised you all this, wouldn’t you spend the money on yourself? In essence, that’s what you would be doing. Since you aren’t netting less, than what have you got to lose versus all you have to gain?
Now…if all these details are coming up because a part of you doesn’t really want the job or think it’s the best for you apart from money issues, then please look at that. But, if you can for a moment just look at the job itself and really want it, then please don’t let not getting a lot more in salary stop you. Universities in general pay less, but they open up so many future possibilities. Plus they offer other benefits like free courses for you and any kids you may have, good retirement and health benefits, etc. And there is lots of potential for upward mobility.
So ask yourself whether turning it down now is really the best investment in your future career. Maybe it is. Only you can decide that.
I am excited for you that you made it this far and wish you luck in making a decision that’s the right one for YOU. My opinion is just that…my opinion. Only you know what’s best for you.
Oh…and if this helps…your commutation expenses are most likely deductible. 😉
Please let us know, ok? Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Hi, Ronnie Ann-
Well, guess what? I GOT OFFERED THE JOB! I should be excited but the salary offered wasn’t exactly what I was hoping. Although it’s a nice increase, since I will now be commuting via car, I will have to factor in gas cost and tolls.
I mentioned this to the University but they were unable to increase the salary because the salary that they originally wanted to offer me wasn’t an increase from what I already make, so they had to “go to bat” to get the increase that they currently offered, so asking AGAIN, wouldn’t be in the budget.
So I am stuck now. With the extra expenses, I would have to incur, my “net pay” would not be much more than what I am seeing right now.
I really like this place and they seem to really like me but I am torn. It’s a higher position AND have great growth potential but I have to be honest, I need a BIGGER paycheck too!
Is it worth it? Should I pass up this opportunity and HOPE something like it with a higher salary comes along again or take the job and just deal with the small ‘net pay’ increase?
PLEASE HELP!
Lisa
Wow What now??! (Sounds funny, huh?) I am sooooo happy to read this. That sounds perfect!
I’ve found you to be a wonderful addition to this blog and hope you come back now and then to offer encouragement to others the way you did to Lexi25. You sure turned what for some would have been a handful of lemons (being fired) into a tall drink of lemonade. Most of us find ourselves at one time or another in a workplace that doesn’t work for us, but that in no way means we are any less talented and desired by the right employer. I hope others look at your story and find inspiration for themselves in it!
Thanks for letting us know. All the best in your new job. I’m really excited. Go git ’em grrrl!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann
Just wanted to let you know that I got a job today! Very close to home..nice environment! !! I am SUPER excited!!!
Thanks for for the good vibes sent my way, your encouraging words, and for this wonderful website…
Stefanie! I remember you and your situation well. This is GREAT news. It seemed to me like they’d be lucky to have you and knew it. Glad they are as smart as we thought they might be. 😉
Thanks for the kind words by the way. That made me smile.
Good luck negotiating this exciting new adventure! I love start-up situations. And this one sounds like it could be plenty cool. Thanks for sharing the news. I love happy endings…or shall I say beginnings.
Ronnie Ann
Good afternoon Ronnie Ann! This is Stefanie just reporting back as promised. As soon as the company closed on their building purchase (Friday of last week) they called me Saturday morning to negotiate a job offer. They will be sending my job offer in the mail anyday now. Of course I have to look over their offer, make sure it is all there as discussed and possibly go through the negotiations stage. The waiting game is definitely frustrating but it helped me so much to be able to talk with you in the process. Plis, I read a lot of your other posts and gained a lot of other good advice. Your advice and sense of humor was priceless. Thanks SO much!!!
Great news, Lisa! Congratulations.
As for the worrying…I’m a big believer in saving that for when you know the facts. Easier said than done, I know. 😉
But it is good that you’re thinking about this ahead of time. You can always do some quick research now and see if you can come up with an average salary for that position. There are charts online I believe, although I’m not sure if the charts tell you how to judge an offer from a university in your area. Also, sometimes the benefits are so good they make up for a slightly lower salary. Also think about the growth potential of the position. Good to consider that when you respond.
As I mentioned, universities usually have approved ranges for each position with little or no wiggle room outside of that. So if the offer is less than you would even consider, make sure you let the person know how happy you are to get the offer but that you need to discuss the salary. Having prepared your arguments ahead of time, be prepared to counter with an offer that you “could feel comfortable with” and calmly and firmly explain your reasons for that. If you need time to think, it’s ok to take a day to get back to them. Don’t leave them hanging, but don’t feel pressured if you need a little more time. They may still come back to you with the same amount and then it’s up to you whether the other factors outweigh the difference between what you want and what they will pay.
I really hope this works out. Thanks for letting us know. Good luck! (And if you do take the job and it’s not too much trouble, please tell us.)
Ronnie Ann
Hi, Ronnie Ann-
I just wanted to give you an update. I received an email today from the university apologizes for taking so long and that they would be contacting me this week with an offer!
I am excited and nervous at the same time! Salary was never discussed during the interviewing process, so I am at a loss as to what they would offer. Since I would be driving, the cost of tolls and gas worries me that if if the salary offered is just going to go toward commuting!
I am wondering (and maybe have no cause to worry) on how to negotiate salary (if it turns out that the salary offered will not be beneficial for me?
Thanks
Lisa
Sounds like a great interview Austin! No reason to think her eagerness to get going at the end was anything other than the lateness of the hour. Otherwise she would have been rushing you out earlier. Who knows…she may even have been rushing to a birthday party!
Of course there’s no way to ever know for sure and there may be others she is still meeting with, but to me it sounds like you did very well. The interview was only a few days ago, so your only job now is to relax and wait to hear from her. It takes time.
References are rarely checked until it’s close to a possible offer, although in this case you said she would do it BEFORE the second interview; that’s rare, but each company has their own ways of doing things. You’ve done all you can. (The birthday card was a nice touch. Just know in the future in some cases that may be a bit too personal after a first interview. But I like your ingenuity and I bet she did too.)
Time now to take a deep breath and think of other things. Hopefully you’ll hear some good news in the next week or two.
Good luck, Austin!
Ronnie Ann
I had a interview on Monday, March 31st, I arrived there about ten minutes before my scheduled time, the interviewer came to the lobby area about 5 minutes late, she called my name and I stood up and shook her hand with a smile with direct eye contact. We then walked to this unoccupied office, and she asked how was my day so far and etc. We got to the office and we started talking about the position, she started talking about the position descriptions, responsibilities, and the history of the company. Then she asked me, what did I know about the company, so I told her indepth with great detail about the founder and the latest news regarding charity events, she then smiled. She then asked me what am I’m looking for in the next opportunity, and then I mentioned in detail about career growth as well as personal knowledge growth. Then she started talking about my resume and details about each job obtain; my duties, and why I left, in which one job the contract expired and the other was outsourced to India.
Then she started talking about her government contract jobs she held, then she asked would I be interest in this job, and what kind of notice can I give to my present employer, then I told her, with respect to any employer, it would be a two week notice but my present employer is aware of my job searching. Then she asked, did I have any references and that she would get her secretary to contact them later in the week in regards to the second interview, then we briefly started talking about family, about her two children(5, and 3) and her noisy neighbors and about her living in a apartment and then I started elaborating about the same thing, then she stated that we better wrap things up now, then she asked is there anything that I wanted to say, then I told her that I’m excited about the job opportunity, etc, etc. So, we started walking out and while walking out she was pointing at different departments and explaining which department worked where.
As I’m about to get to the elevators, I shook her hand and told her that it was a pleasure meeting with her today and she said, “same here” at the same appearing to be rushing to get away. That’s the only thing that scared me, the way she departed, but it was 5:15pm. I sent her a hallmark thank-you card and a hallmark birthday card since there was a billboard in the entrance regarding her birthday. I’m very anxious on how the interview went but I have my worries especially the way she departed, is there anything that I should be concerned about, my references hasn’t been contacted yet, any suggestions?
Wow! Great news, Tbrown. I really appreciate that you took the time to let us know. It was my pleasure to help even a tiny bit. 🙂
I wish you all the best in your new job!
Hello Ronnie Ann,
I just want to let you know I got the job. Thank you for your comment.
Tbrown
Hope so too. You’re very welcome. 🙂
Thank you soooooo much!
I have been pondering for so long! I have interviewed at quite a few places and this place is the FIRST place that felt like a PERFECT fit!
I “fell” upon your site and I am so happy I did. The emails and responses have been VERY helpful!
I will be “patient” and hopefully, I will be emailing you shortly with good news!
Thanks again for all of your help.
Hi again Lisa.
Yes, having worked for a major University for over 7 years I kind of guessed that was the case when you used the word “break”. That’s why I feel so comfortable in telling you this is the standard process. I once waited three months to hear back from a major University about a second interview even though I was their top candidate and we had exchanged some infrequent communications. So please have faith.
As for salaries…Universities have their own ranges. As part of a number of required HR processes, they need to get formal approval at some number and then you may or may not have negotiating room. References will be contacted before any formal offer can be made. First they would contact you and reach an agreement at a TENTATIVE offer.
An e-mail at the end of the week – or maybe even Monday – would be better than calling since you can control the tone and how stalkerish you sound. 😉 But if your instincts tell you to call, trust yourself. Just be light and friendly.
If I mentioned these circumstances to ANYONE I’ve worked with in academia or who has been around the work world in general for many years, they would be smiling that you even think this is strange. It is soooo normal. Just give them a chance. Academia proceeds on its own schedule. And if you are going to work there, this is good practice for you! 🙂
Meanwhile take a breath. Go do something fun. Watched pots almost never boil.
Good luck.
Ronnie Ann
Thanks, Ronnie-
I want to add that this is also a position at a major university. Although it’s only been 6 days since they came back from break, it has been over 2 weeks since I came in for an interview.
I sent Thank you notes immediately, but they have not asked for references yet (I don’t recall the application asking for them). Before an offer can be made, wouldn’t they have to check references first? I actually don’t recall telling them my salary requirements? I liked the position so much as the university, that I was willing to just negotiate. (I secretly was hoping the salary was higher than what I currently make!)
I am so confused. Since it’s only been 6 days since they returned from break but almost 3 weeks since the initial interview, would calling them by Friday, be a little too “stalker-ish”?
Hi again Lisa. I know how you feel and really hate the way the interview process leaves people just hanging. Please see what I just posted on that topic. (Link right above this comment.)
That said, let me give you their side. They actually sent you an e-mail keeping you informed and you let them know you’re still interested. They may feel everything is just fine and know that as soon as they can they will be back in touch. While you would feel more comfortable getting some reassurance more regularly, they may think all is ok. It’s not arrogance. I’ve been there. You just get caught up in a zillion things and in the back of your mind you just remember you wrote the person they said cool and all is fine.
Of course, if you were ready to accept another offer, as a professional courtesy it would be your responsibility to let them know and then see what they do. That’s probably why they aren’t worrying about that aspect of it. Also, not all that much time has passed yet really. Time feels so much slower when you’re the one waiting. I know.
But all that said…I know none of that probably helps too much right now. Did you read Anne’s story up above? I think it might help a little.
At this point because of what they wrote you, if you want, you might send a short sweet e-mail saying you know how hectic things must be after coming back from break, but just wanted them to let them know you are still very interested in the position and look forward to hearing from them after the salary is approved. That might remind them to bug Human Resources who could be the ones really backed up for whatever reason. (Could also be people on vacation or sick.) And today is only the 6th work day since they got back from break.
Please know that this wait is not at all abnormal or outrageous, Lisa. Things really do happen. And the week when you come back from break is often a catch-up one. Since they were so good about letting you know where you stood (many places wouldn’t even have done that) please try to cut them some slack. They sound pretty good.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie Ann!
I have to say that I am getting VERY frustrated. I can’t imagine why it would be taking so long! However, I also wondering why at least an email has not been sent to me to let me know what’s going on?
How do they know that I have not turned down an offer because I thought THIS one is in the bag?!
How do they know I am not getting other offers and putting THEM on hold because I am waiting for them?
Sounds like a big gamble and sounds somewhat arrogant, if you ask me.
I understand that sometimes it can take awhile but my gosh, to not even send a quick email to let me know the status is just crazy!
I am still very much interested, but I am wondering how long should I wait before calling them?
Lisa
Hi Lisa!
Ah…where is that mind-reading hat when I need it? 🙂
While of course there is no way for me to know what they’re thinking for sure and anything is still possible, it certainly sounds likely that a formal offer will be coming soon. I can tell you that I’ve worked for places where it sometimes takes an annoyingly long time to get salary approval from Human Resources. The delay usually had nothing to do with whether the approval would be given…it was just part of the mysterious process.
I will hold off on the congratulations until you tell us it’s a sure thing, but I am very hopeful that you’ll be getting some good news in the very near future. Meanwhile, go do some fun things and relax as much as possible. You’ve done all you can.
Fingers crossed! Good luck.
Ronnie Ann
I got an email stating that I was their “Top Candidate” and that they were awaiting salary approval and they would get back to me when they returned from break on 3/25/08. I sent a nice email informing them that I was still interested and couldn’t wait to hear back from them. It has been over a week and I have heard nothing!
Do you think they changed their minds?
Lisa
Hello TBrown!
Welcome to Work Coach. First, let me congratulate you for how well you are doing in the interview process so far. As you see, sometimes it takes a while for employers to get back to you even if they are interested. Glad you made it to the next step.
With the information you gave me, sounds like they like you and you are one of the final four candidates for the two positions. I wish you much luck on Wednesday and hope you get one of the jobs!
Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
hello everyone,
I went on two interviews for the same company. The first one I went on went well I was called for the second 1 1/2 weeks later. When I went on the second one I was told that they narrow down their choices to 4 people. {they have 2 position to fill} I waited about 3 weeks and I sent them an email asking if they narrowed their choices down and if and when a decision would be made. I got a response from them saying no decision has been made yet and that they will get in touch with me when one was made. I got an email today asking can i meet with them on Wednesday. My question is what does that mean? Thank you
Oh Merle! Congratulations. I remember you well. This is a FABULOUS story. (I’ll have to make it into a post.) Thanks for sharing it with us and giving others encouragement.
I wish you all the best of luck in your new job. How wonderfully this all worked out. A testament to patience and hope – and to other forces we know nothing about and have absolutely no control over! 🙂
Hi Ronnie,
I wrote to you almost 2 months ago about a job interview I had with a large university in my area. It was a very interesting experience as you may recall. I didn’t get the job but received several phone calls from the chair of the search committee indicating her desire to hire me for a second position but could not make it happen because of budget cuts.
It is amazing to me how God is always working behind the scenes. While I was going through the interviewing situation with one college, the director from a smaller college called me about a position she had open. I had talked to this director almost a year ago about another position she had at the time but I was over qualified for it. the position she had open at this time was a much better position then the one I interviewed for at the large university. To make a long story short, I just accepted an offer from this school on last Friday!
I just wanted to send an update and encourage your readers that anything is possible in the world of job hunting and interviewing. Dont’ be discouraged by what is not happening, just keep doing what you know to do, have faith and it will all come to pass!
Thanks for all your encouragement Ronnie.
Hi again nyyanks1972!
I always wish I could do something more to help. At least know we are all rooting for you to get this one! As I said, it sounds very hopeful. And even if they do come back with a “no” there are still ways to leave the door open for next time. Just the fact that you impressed them so much tells me that you have much to offer any employer.
Please let us know what happens. Hope to hear some very good news soon!
Ronnie Ann
Thank you for your encouraging words.
I did send both the HR director and the director a thank you note via email the afternoon I got home for the interview so I will take your advice and just be patient/positive for now.
Thanks Again!
Yes nyyanks1972! There is still a good chance. Just give them the time they asked for. The fact that they came back to you and were so interested is a very good sign. And you are lucky that they gave you a general time-frame. Not everyone does.
I consulted to a major university for 7 years and part of my very busy job was to help them hire. Believe me…many things get in the way of the process. As important as the hiring process is to the person being interviewed, it is just one of many things we have to handle. And sometimes it takes a little while to get all the people involved in a room together. Reference checking is usually kept right to the end before the offer is made. Just make sure you send your thank-you note and stay positive. This sounds very hopeful. But as I just wrote to Anne, I once had to wait months to get a second interview even though I was their top candidate – and that was with a university. These things just take time. I can’t explain all the reasons…they just do. And I really do know how hard it is to wait and how awful it feels to be kept in the dark for so long.
Maybe one day we’ll open up the whole process and make it more human-centered! I hope. But for now…your new best friends should be patience and thinking positive thoughts.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
I had an interview with a college for one position several weeks ago that I did not get the position. The director of HR however called me and said she had a different position opening that she thought I would be a perfect fit for and scheduled an interview with her. I interviewed with her (went very well and she asked several reference questions) for over 40 minutes and then she got the director and assistant director that I would be reporting to interview me. This interview with them lasted about another 40-45 minutes and at the end of the conversation the director asked me to please be patient with him that he was not ready to fill the position for 2-3 weeks. He also said he was going to talk with the 1st lady I interview with from HR and let her know it went well. I know he said it would be a few weeks before he could hire but that was 4 days ago and my references have not received any calls yet. Do you think there is still a possibility that they want to hire me and just haven’t checked my references yet?
Fingers crossed for you!
Sent an email earlier tonight. Will keep you updated.
LOL! Thanks Ray. Sending positive vibes your way. Good luck.
Thanks Ronnie Ann! I feel a little better. I will send them an email. And yes you still rock.
Hi Ray!
First of all, you are not an idiot. I myself have gotten confused by that same section of Manhattan – especially hard to focus when you are already nervous about an interview! As for the resume…yes, from now on you need to make yourself a checklist before going to an interview so you don’t forget anything. (Part of that checklist should probably say “take 10 minutes to breathe in and out slowly and gently before you leave.”) Luckily you left yourself enough time to get to Kinko’s. Not everyone would have been that smart. And you also called and confirmed rather than getting any more lost…a very good thing. But ok…enough of that. Now to the interview itself.
I can’t tell what really went on in their minds. But just from what I read in your comment, I wonder if you presented a strong image of yourself once you entered – or even on the phone. Being late isn’t good…but the trick is how you handle things. The fact that they focused on what you didn’t have – despite having your resume – doesn’t sound too hopeful. BUT…I sure would try to recover a little. Even if not for this job, if you can win them over maybe they will keep you in mind for another job.
So…write to them. I assume you have their e-mail? Let them know you enjoyed meeting with them. You might mention you were a little nervous and wish you had another chance to show them who you really are and what you can do for them. Let them know you are a fast learner and could even get a crash course from your brother who is a photographer. (That’s a useful fact just to show you understand and have a connection to the field.) Since the job is at the computer lab, not having all the skills yet should not be a deal breaker. They are interested in you and how you present yourself. Keep the note short and positive – let them know you are more interested than ever after having met them (since it’s true). And, if you think its ok, add a short sentence saying you’d be willing to work for them for a 2-week trial and let them decide if you have what it takes.
Not sure any of that will help, but it is worth a shot. Good luck! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Boy oh boy. I think I really messed up an interview for a job I really wanted yesterday and was wondering what I could do to try and salvage my chances of getting that job.
This would have been a full time position with benefits and good pay. I got the interview through a friend, which in my experience is the best way to go.
Here’s what went wrong:
I forgot my resume on the way there. I got off the subway 30 minutes before my interview so I figured I had time to find a Kinkos to print one off. I finally found a Kinkos 5 minutes before my interview.
With about 2 minutes before my interview, I discovered to my horror that 21st St all of a sudden turned into Grammercy Park. The place I was interviewing for is located on 21st St, so I was confused. Rather than wander around being lost, I called and confirmed that yes, I was going in the right direction. I finally arrived, but six minutes late.
Once in the interview, they asked me if I had experience with still photography (the job is at a computer lab where most of the students study photography) and I said no, but I do have a lot of video experience.
Then they asked me if I ever used the command line on macs, and I had to answer honestly, no.
The interview was short, about 20 minutes.
The people were nice and we seemed to get along, but I just don’t know if I made a good impression, and if I meet the requirements for the job.
Although I feel like they could see from my resume clearly that I had no still photography experience, so maybe that’s okay? I mean, why bring me in for an interview if that’s a requirement?
Anyway, my brother is a photographer and he said he could give me a crash course. I told him it was probably too late because I already told them I had no experience.
The interview ended with them walking me to the elevator. No mention of when I would hear back (I was too ashamed to ask) or anything like that.
What do you think? Should I just forget about it?
Thanks for your advice, anything would be helpful. I really want this job! The hours, benefits, work environment, and pay all seem great. If only I wasn’t such an idiot!
Hi S!
Wuhoo! You got that nice surprise we all hoped for. A good reminder for everyone that sometimes, even if you are the best candidate, interviewers don’t always signal a “YES”…just in case. Clearly, they think highly of you there and are willing to provide any experience you don’t yet have. Smart employers! 😉
I wish you all the best. Will feature your story in a post soon since it’s a good one. So proud of you! Uh oh…I feel another one coming on…WUHOO!! 🙂
Ronnie Ann
hey, i got the job 🙂
LOL. Thanks for making me smile, Stefanie. Your Magic 8 Ball was a lot more encouraging than mine was! I had to ask the same question 5 times before I got an answer I liked. 😉
Thanks much for filling in some of the details. Very glad you took what I said in the spirit it was offered. Hard to shoot from the hip over this vast distance. Sounds like you are looking at this realistically and that you handled things totally within the bounds of professionalism. Nice. Without giving you false hope, now that I know what I do I must say I’m excited for you.
Yes…please do let us know what happens. Fingers, eyes, and legs crossed for you!
Ronnie Ann
P.S. Fear not. I don’t blame you at all for the high prices – but I limit that to you, Stefanie. I leave open the right to blame every other person connected to the industry! 🙂
BTW – Your magic 8 ball said I will get this job and they will double the original range…YEAH!! Thanks for the humor too – I loved it.
Stefanie
Ronnie Ann – Your email was exactly what I was hoping for a lot of honesty and content. So I am very appreciative (of your compliments, yes, but mostly) for your honesty. I think I needed a good dose of constructive criticism.
I work in the “good ol” Texas Oil & Gas Industry. [yeah even I am too embarrassed to admit to that one due to gas prices]. In my last position as Facility Administrator for a larger plant I performed these same functions plus several others. I agree with you that it can get overwhelming on most days. As a manager, I do know the importance of delegating to a good assistant. In my new role once I get the systems in place and after the first year, I would definitely hire someone for that position. Luckily, with the accounting (AP/AR), HR (payroll) and purchasing, there are many softwares that offer a lot of assistance. I plan to really depend on one of those.
I did consider the impression I could have made referring the other two people. I did state that they were close friends who had impressive resumes and that would be the only reason I would mention it because although I had many contacts at the company, I would not want to cross any professional lines. They actually had a complete list of employees with our company including myself and the other two that was provided by another employee that had left earlier. That made me feel relieved that I was not being used as an “informant” (LOL).
I definitely respect your suggestions and I will put them into action when you recommended me to do so. BTW – thanks for getting right back to me – I think I can be one of those dreadful cats curiosity kills.
I will let you know how it goes (biting nails)!
Stefanie
Hi Stefanie!
Wow. Wish I had a Magic 8 Ball sometimes!
First, I have to congratulate you on your ingenuity and resourcefulness. You did something many people would be too shy to even consider and it shows tremendous initiative. I’m impressed. 🙂
But since you ask for my perspective in addition to whether I think you actually have the job, here are my thoughts:
From what you’ve told me, there sounds like a fairly good chance you will get an offer, but it’s not in the bag yet or you would have it. That’s not to discourage you…just stating the obvious which I know you already know. The fact that you connected so well and they spent that much time with you is very encouraging. But as you say, they are in the very early stages of setting things up and anything is still possible.
Most likely, it’s simply that the son is handling operations and doesn’t want to promise anything yet until the building closes for sure. Problems can arise at closings that delay openings or even change plans. So he is smart to offer nothing until things are more concrete.
What I can’t tell from just reading your words is the dynamic between the father and the son. Now I am really just playing with possibilities here and odds are none of this next thought is what’s going on, but I want to share it anyway just in case. Sounds like in the meeting the father was showing he really liked you and could go higher in salary than the son had planned (asserting control ever so gently) and depending on their real relationship that could be just fine – or the son may decide to assert his own control in his own way. We can never tell no matter how things seem in public. So…if the son really liked you too and he may simply want to assert a little of his own stamp on things, that may just be evidenced in the amount of the offer. But he may also find his own way of doing things. Please know these are just possibilities and so I’m sharing the thoughts…it may all be exactly as it seemed. No smart business person can make an offer until his or her ducks are in a row.
I do have one concern that is a lot more likely to be relevant. While I admire how creative you were in building a larger role for yourself and making sure you let it be known that role would deserve a lot more money, I am concerned that you may be offering to take on too much without leaving yourself enough managerial maneuvering room. If negotiations begin for real (although of course you already began them), make sure you don’t offer to take on the responsibilities of several people. Nothing wrong with adding to the scope of your job, but you will need help if you want to look good. Sure…you might be able to do all their jobs, but you’ll have no planning time or ability to cover when emergencies happen and fires have to be fought. So assuming they come back to you, please consider backing off just a bit on how much you bite off. I can’t say more than that since I don’t have all the details in front of me, but I will just say a big red flag went off when I read that. That is not to undermine the fact that I think you have great instincts. But if you are good, you don’t have to do it all. In fact, the best managers don’t. Otherwise you will carve out a niche for yourself as that wonderful Stefanie who handles all those things no one else can – so we can’t promote her! It’s happened many times before, especially to women.
OK…I know I’ve probably told you more than you ever wanted to hear back, but I have one more thought for future reference. Maybe…and I say maybe because I don’t know which industry you are in or the common practices…next time just send your resume and promote yourself. By offering up these other people (even though you wisely didn’t mention their feelings toward your current employer), you might seem like someone who could do the same to them one day. Now this particular boss may have loved what you did, but you do run the risk of turning people off by being so “helpful” up front. Also, you won’t be able to tell if they really met with you so long because they liked you or were simply pumping you for info. So next time, start with yourself and later you can add this very useful info as negotiations proceed.
Hope nothing I said takes away from how impressed I am with the way you made this happen for yourself. I hope it is all just as it seems (most likely it is) and that within a month or so they call you for some serious negotiations. In the meantime, you’ve done all you can and it’s time to just think positive thoughts. A short, polite e-mail after the closing (when they can breathe a sigh of relief) would make sense. You can simply congratulate them, since they know full well just how interested you are. I think not selling hard at that point would work well for you.
I wish you the best of luck. Please let us know what happens. In the meantime, here’s something I hope helps pass the time: Magic 8 Ball
Ronnie Ann
Hello Ronnie Ann! I was hoping that you can give me a little perspective on a recent interview. At a job fair I over heard about a new competitive company coming to town. I took the initiative, made a few phone calls and was able to get the new owners cell phone number. I contacted him first and asked him if I could send my resume along with a few other managers who I knew was equally unhappy with our currrent employer (did not tell new owner that though). I emailed my resume on a Thursday and he contacted me at my home on a Sunday and set up an interview with me the following Tuesday over supper at a local restaurant. I felt the interview went very well. The three of us had good chemistry. Both the owner and his son were present and I answered “yes” to all of your potential cues for a success interview.
A few other things was that when the owner first called me he stated that he was very impressed with my resume and that I was definitely qualified. During the interview he stated that I would be the Office Administrator handling accounting and human resources. We were discussing other positions and trying to match some of my co-workers with what his company would need. When I mentioned another manager who did purchasing the owner said “you can do that”. He also stated that he wanted to add to my job description to include other qualifications I had listed on my resume. When his son asked about my salary requirements, I mentioned that it was open for negotiation because I was very interested in a position with them but asked back at him what range they had in mind. The son responded with a range and the father said “but you are more qualified than our original ideal candidate so we would be willing to pay more. I gave a presentation of myself, what I would bring to the plate and most other basic interview questions that may be asked. At the end of the presentation (which I only brought out after the son’s question of salary) I provided a research page of what they would pay if they hired multiple people to do human resources, accounting and some of my other areas of expertise from Salary.com for this area. I took an average of those ranges and provided a range slightly below the middle amount and slightly higher but not the highest and this provided them with a high range for a salary. As I explained it I stated that this was just an example to make a point on hiring me as opposed to hiring several people and concluded by showing them how much they would save annually by hiring one person who had all of my qualifications. I closed by asking them to do their own research and if a job offer is made during the negotiations would like for them to provide the first numbers based upon what they feel the fair market value would be for someone of my qualifications. My interview lasted three and a half hours and they asked me to stay and eat with them. I did and the conversation was more relaxed as the father and I went to the same college in Beaumont, TX. I have never clicked with two managers more. I really liked them both and have a great deal of respect for them already. They are in the very early stages of setting the business up and are working on securing the building on April 7th, 2008. I sent a thank you and gave a follow up call just last week. The son replied by email letting me know that everything was in order, said thanks for staying in touch with him and restated the building close date. They only expect to hire ten people this year and will open shop for production in August of this year. Do you think I have this position and they are waiting to get all that wrapped up before making an offer to me?
I appreciate your time and any perspective you may have.
Respectfully,
Stefanie
I have the smartest and nicest readers…my Work Coach family. 🙂
Hi What Now And Ronnie Ann
Thanks for encouragement and support. I just wanted to say that doing a Voluteer position is a great way to get started in an organization it gives you a sense of purpose and also you can get really good references and you can apply internally for full time and part time positions as they come up. I wish you good luck What Now on your interviews and i’m positive that you will land one of them!
Awwe thank you Ronnie Ann! That truely means alot to me. Just to give you an update on me. I never heard anything back regarding the position I really wanted. Even after submitting a short email of interest. It’s ok though because I have since moved on. Currently I am enrolled in school seeking a degree in hopes to make a career change. In the mean time, I am still actively searching for employment in a related field. I have a few prospects and an interview scheduled on Monday and Tuesday for positions that are applicable to my field of study. I am really excited and am remaining optimistic regarding future endeavors. I just want you to know that I really enjoy your site and find the advise you give and stories written very supportive in my job search. Thank You Ronnie Ann! 🙂
What a wonderful update What Now??! I have a huge smile on my face. Love the way you’ve handled all this and love the dreams you are pursuing. Good luck with the interviews and all the luck with your new career! The best part about this blog is the wonderful people I meet. You’ve made my day.
Go git ’em grrrl!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks for the update Lexi25! I am sooo glad you were able to root out the mystery of your references. It’s something that haunts a lot of people and not always because of anything they really did that was so bad as to keep the next employer from giving them a chance. The good news is that you have shown others that a person can simply move on and find other good references and willing employers if you just keep at it. I join What Now?? in applauding your efforts and quick bounce back.
All the best of luck in your new job!!
Ronnie Ann
wow! How did you find out about the bad reference? I wonder if that is the case for me. Well at least you seem to be on track and have bounced back tremendously. I wish you much luck wih your prospective employer. Congrats! 🙂
Hi What now?? This is Ronnie Ann. I just wanted to let you know that I think you are a very special person and I am sending vibes out into the universe wishing you lots of good things. 🙂
Hi What now and Ronnie Ann,
Thanks again for your encouraging and kind words. I said that I would keep you posted on the job searching. I still have not heard from the agency that I really wanted to work at but I kept on pounding the pavement and I have found out what went wrong. I got a bad reference from one of my previous employers. I am in the Social Work field and my previous employer told my prospective employer that I will need more experience in counselling, I was shocked and appauled! counselling experience is vital to the field of Social Work so I could not understand why my previous employee would say such a thing. Anyways, I just got a interview yesterday which went well and they just need to wait until they have the proper reference checks, so I should be starting there in about two weeks.
Hey Ronnie,
Thanks for the article.
I just interviewed for a position that I could tell I was on the edge of being a little too inexperienced for but there’s a chance.
They mentioned the process to me and the possibility of a 2nd round of interviews.
If I do not get the job, and I really like the company, do you think there’s a way to convey that I am willing to do an internship or anything to prove I have the drive to be offered a position eventually? I do not want to give up if I get a no. Thanks!
Hi Sean!
First…good luck with the job. You never know how these things turn out. Sometimes, when a company sees potential (if it is able to do so), it will bring someone in with a little less experience and help develop them to match the needs of the job. But in most cases, as you suspect, they will go with a person who already has the skills they need. If that’s the case and you really like the company, you most definitely should try to find another way in. Without knowing all the details, I can’t come up with an exact plan 🙂 but here are some thoughts.
If you get an actual call telling you that you didn’t get the job, ask the person if you may ask them a few questions. Then let them know how much you like the company and the people you’ve met and ask if there is any other way to go about working there, letting them know you’d happily do an internship or take on a special project or even come on as a part-time worker/consultant. If you get the word by mail or e-mail, think about whom you connected with most during the interview process and send them a polite e-mail (maybe even snail mail) asking if they could give you fifteen minutes of their time to ask for some advice. If they agree, mention all the above and anything else your creative mind can come up with.
If you feel more comfortable doing all this in writing, then come up with a snail mail letter to make your pitch. Be polite and totally flexible. I once got into a company by saying “yes” to a one day receptionist gig. They were desperate and I was willing. And soon I was working for the president.
I like that you latched on to the idea that being turned down is not necessarily the end of it. (This is not quite the same for sexual relationships, but I’ll leave that for another time and blog.) Persistence often pays off, especially if you have the basic personality match and the potential they are looking for. And remember that even if you do have to go elsewhere for a while, there is nothing to prevent you from trying again when the time is right!
Good luck, Sean. I like your attitude! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Oh Vanessa! You made my day! Wuhoo! Congratulations and big hugs. I knew you could do it. 🙂
Best of luck in your new job!
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie Ann,
Well I got the call yesterday and was offered the job I wanted(the first one)! I guess it was worth the waiting! I guess they just needed a little extra time…
Thank you for your advice!
-Vanessa
Hi S!
Hmmm…to me, his comments sound as if he wants you to know it’s NOT a done deal even though they know you and like you. There is still some hope though, since he did jot down positive comments and you never know who might come to bat for you – or how the other candidates do. But of course, he might also know of another candidate who is better matched to this specific job or maybe even has an inside edge. No way for you to tell at this point. And no way to tell if the first choice will take it; that also happens sometimes.
I agree with 40plusdc that it sounds like you’ve done all the right things. And I admire that you know what you want and are willing to turn down jobs you don’t want. I just want to mention that sometimes jobs that don’t seem ideal at first can become wonderful stepping stones to what we really want or add to our skills/experience tool set – so at least examine them carefully for potential before rejecting them. But if they feel wrong and you can hold out, you are right to wait for a job that feels right.
I really hope you get a nice surprise and get the offer, but if this particular job doesn’t come through, that doesn’t mean the door is closed to the company. I have a friend who owns a successful law firm with offices in two cities. His motto is “NO can lead to YES.” Since you know folks there, it would be fine to ask if someone (even the boss/interviewer) would be willing to meet with you and offer some advice on how you might still get a permanent job there one day. Mentors are great to have. Maybe there is another job the person might suggest you pursue for now with a certain set of experience that will make you more attractive to them later on. I’ve seen people go that route to get where they want to go. On the other hand, sometimes while pursuing that route, a new exciting opportunity opens up they never imagined!
Further along in your career, I might suggest you do a little more lobbying for yourself, especially considering your relationship with the company. But I think at this point, it might not help and may even bug them.
So for now, just keep your thoughts positive, continue interviewing, and wait to hear from them. Of course a follow up e-mail in 10-14 days if you haven’t heard anything is fine. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you!
Good luck.
Ronnie Ann
Like so many of the posters on this blog, it sounds like you’ve done everything possible to make your best case to the employer. Job seekers instinctively view the process as an objective decision based on qualifications, experience, and personal chemistry. My guess is that a lot of hirings are subjective decisions, based on things outside our ability to fully understand or control (including, sadly, unspoken biases related to gender, race, and age). Regardless of what happens, stay positive, keep on searching, and believe you will land the right job. Good luck.
I went for an interview today. It is a job I really want. I have interned at the company for 3 work terms and my references said great things, so my interview was very informal (talked alot about non-technical soft skills stuff, sports, interests, etc.). Actually, it was more like me asking him alot of questions and even though he had a script, I don’t think he followed it at all. He wrote down some notes, I caught a glimpse by accident. Alot of positive things written down. It was scheduled for an hour, but went for an hour and a half. I thought things were going great, body language, wording etc. made it seem like he was going to hire me.
However, at the end of the interview he said I was well-spoken, and had a great interview and should be proud. He said “What’s next is I ahve a tough choice to make” and went on to say he has 3 more candidates left and gave me some details about them. I suddenly got this very bad gut feeling that he was just being very polite to me and did not want to hurt my feelings. Am I thinking too much? He went on to say how life is a big competition and that often times people wonder how a company who needs people so badly still have candidates compete with one another, etc. He also went on to say that he has a good idea as to my character (hopefully positive.)
Most of my interview answers went well. I stumbled a bit but nothing major. I showed alot of iniative prior to the interview (getting in touch with people from the same team, etc. etc.) and sent a thank you letter post-interview. Everything went as well as possible, but the things he said at the end of the interview really threw me off. Usually after an interview I can tell right away if i got the job or not. But this time, i am getting mixed messages. Unfortunately, this is the job I really want the most. I got offers from less than ideal jobs and will probably reject them regardless.
Any advice?
I had an interview with a company on Thursday, it went very well-I thought! It lasted an hour and a half-until 5:30 in the afternoon, well after everyone else had gone home. There was joking and back and forth banter. He asked what my desirable salary would be so I told him what I was making currently and that I would accept less because my commute would be considerably shorter. I emailed a thank you on Friday and he said he would let me know how the process went and I could call or email any time!! I want to know if I should call or email again-I want him to know I am VERY interested but I don’t want him to think I am a stalker…. what do I do?
Smiling. Yes…you certainly do want to stay short of that stalker line. Sounds like you had a really good interview and I have a feeling they know you are very interested. Since you just e-mailed him Friday, you might want to wait a few more days before sending another e-mail. These things do take time for many reasons and the fact that days pass without you hearing from them does not mean you didn’t get the job. If you can hold out until Monday (I know…I know. It’s hard) that would be a fine time to send another e-mail since he was so forthcoming about being available. Usually though, people should wait about 2 weeks. But I can tell that would be excruciating, so a short note on Monday would be fine. 🙂 Fear not…I’ll bet they remember you!
I wish you much luck, Heather. Sounds like you’ve done everything you can. It’s in their hands now. Please let us know what happens. Hope to hear good news soon!
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie Ann,
Thanks, Yeah I am going to send an e-mail tomorrow if I still do not hear anything. All of our emails have been pretty laid back so I feel comfortable e-mailing her.
So for now I continue to wait and wish the phone would just ring already. Haha I am not good at patience! Gotta go get ready for my interview and continue the job search, Ill let you know if I hear anything thanks!
-Vanessa
Looking forward to hearing what happens. Good luck!
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thank you for your quick response.
I did send out thank you notes right after my interview to the people that were on the panel and I also sent an email to my contact in HR thanking her for all of her help and she answered a couple questions for me. So I guess I did the right things now I just have to wait… I’m not good at all at waiting! I hope it is a good outcome though and am thinking as positive as possible! I will let you know if I do hear back or if I have to make a follow up call at the end of the week. (I’m sure ill have a question or 2 on what to say in the follow up call)
I have another interview tomorrow with another company so at least that will get my mind off of the waiting game. Thanks for your help!
-Vanessa
I like the way you’re handling things, Vanessa. Very nice. Also good you have something to help (a little) keep your mind off the waiting. Believe me…I know how it feels to want that phone to ring NOW! But who knows…this interview tomorrow may even be better! Clearly, you are someone who has a lot to offer.
One more thought…if you still really want the first job after tomorrow, I think it would be ok to send your HR contact a quick e-mail maybe Tuesday. Something like “Hello XXX. Since you asked me about this last week, just want you to know I had another interview yesterday but I am still very interested in your company. Please let me know when you hear anything. Thanks!” Or something like that. I think that would be ok, but please use your instincts. Hard to know anything for sure from a distance!
Good luck getting the right job for you! I look forward to hearing all the juicy details. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Vanessa! Congratulations on a good interview. Sounds to me like you handled things just right. If you haven’t sent a short thank you note yet, you might want to do that, although it is not mandatory. That also would be a fine reason to send an e-mail to the HR person, thanking her again for all her help and letting her know you are still interested. That’s all. The rest is in their hands for now. Rest assured. This situation is not out of the ordinary at all!
While it’s always possible that they may have found someone they like more, they may also simply have had work emergencies that took attention away from this. That happens often. Or a critical person to the decision was sick or unavailable for whatever reason. While I know this feels like a long time when you are waiting to hear, there is nothing abnormal about a few extra days – sometimes even weeks! (Although in your case, I kind of bet not.) If you haven’t heard anything by the end of this week, a call to the HR person is perfectly acceptable since she’s established an interest.
There is nothing else for you to do right now other than take a deep breath (in and out) and think very positive thoughts. Good luck! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I was looking online for post interview info to answer my questions and I came across this site! I found it to be very informative!
My situation is that I had an interview on Monday March 10th for a position that I would really enjoy doing. It was a panel interview with 3 people on the panel. This interview was after I had a phone interview with a woman in HR. Anyways I thought the interview went great then on Wednesday I got a call from my contact in HR telling me that they really liked me, thought that I would be a great fit and asked if I had any other offers on the table at this time. I said yes I do have some other stuff going on in that I am actively looking for a job but I am very interested in this company and position. So she said that she would try to hurry along the process and get me an answer as soon as possible and asked if the end of the week would be okay. I said yes the sooner the better of course. I also asked if there would be a second interview and she said no we would just make you an offer. So then Thursday and Friday came and went and I heard nothing so my question is on Monday if I still do not hear anything should I call my HR contact and ask if a decision has been made or give it some more time? I know the interviews are over and she said that they want to fill the position as soon as possible. It is also a new position in a large company. I just didnt know if this is common for a company to call and ask if you have any other offers on the table and then say they will get back to you by the end of the week and then you hear nothing? Any input would be great!
Thank you,
Vanessa
Marg Mary! So happy to read that you got the job. Guess that answers your question for sure…it certainly was a good sign!
All the best in your new job!
Ronnie Ann
Hey Ronnie ann I got the job. Look at 3-9-08 note.thanx
Hola TeriG!
Thank you for this thorough explanation of your situation – one that is sadly shared by so many women there (and other places, of course). I was really upset as I read how unfairly women who as you say would be welcomed elsewhere are treated there. I know ageism and sexism are not uncommon throughout the world, but the very fact that Spain has protective laws and yet those laws have no teeth must be so discouraging for the women there. And those salaries…ugh! Makes it hard for a woman on her own to afford those climbing prices even if she does have a job. No wonder you are willing to overlook a few things that you wouldn’t have tolerated if you were back in London.
I am hoping that you do get the job so you can stay near your family. Or, thinking wishfully, if you do have to return to London, ideally you could find a job with a British company with an office in Barcelona. Or even start your own company that does business in Barcelona! (Hey…I can dream for you, can’t I?)
Now that I know the details, I think you did the right thing contacting him. He really is pulling the strings, so why not remind him that you are available and great. 🙂
I wish you much luck, TeriG. And thanks again for helping educate us about what it’s like there. I really feel for you and will keep my fingers crossed that something good happens. Of course, in the scheme of life, sometimes things that look bad actually bring wonderful things. Please, if you remember, let us know how this all comes out. I’m sure everyone who reads this will be rooting for you. I know I am!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks again Ronnie Ann. Just to let you know that I went ahead and sent the email direct to the guy who interviewed. I think that he should take the responsibility for keeping me in the dark, even if it´s being driven by HR, especially given is inappropriate enthusiasm for me in the interview – I do feel they have been underhand.
Just so you know, I live in Spain (Barcelona) having moved from my native England (London) 5 years ago. It has been a real learning curve, even though my father is Spanish. Although we are all supposedly part of the European Union, things operate very differently, I suppose a bit like the States. However, on the issue of ageism, I checked into things and in fact Spain has the same anti-age laws as the UK. In the UK you cannot give a job description with an age listed and if the interviewee has any indication whatsoever that the job was not given due to age they can go to a tribunal – employers are very wary of this issue. Here in Spain they do what they like. Not only is it ageism but also sexism, men don´t have the same problem at all. Salaries for women are about 50% less and women over 40 make up over 60% of the unemployed population.
The job I´ve just been interviewed for is one of those jobs that comes along every 10 years, I don´t have the time to wait around. If I were in my native London I would not be too bothered as I´d have a row of job interviews lined up and something would come up within a shortish period. Here salaries are very very low, even for PA jobs speaking 2 or 3 languages (average salary about 1,200 euros a month), Spain used to be cheap but here in Barcelona prices are now nearing London for many things with salaries 50% less.
This job would be have given me the chance to stay here and be near my family but now it is looking very likely that I will have to return to London to work, I know that women of my age are actually welcomed in many companies, it is such a pity that it´s not that way in Spain.
Thanks Ronnie Anne for your speedy reply, much appreciated. I know what you mean but to be honest I really do need this job, it really is not a case of choosing where I will be happy. I am in my 40s and live in a country where they place age limits in their job specs, for my kind of field it is usually 25 – 33 years old! I have tried for several months to go for jobs well within my capabilities and never even get to interview stage due to being rejected on the basis of my age. Therefore, this job would make me happy simply by the fact that I get it – I would worry about the other bits later on. Like you, I´ve worked for very difficult people and always handled myself very well, I am not phased by that.
Another thing I didn´t mention is that I took the opportunity to ask the CEO if he currently had a PA, as I wanted to know why it was so urgent. He said he did but then he proceeded to tell me that although she is a lovely person who he gets on very well with, that she is unrealiable,sloppy and her mistakes were “driving him mad”. He gave me an example that on that day she had turned up to work an hour late with no good reason (something I could never dream of doing), this shocked me. I then asked how long she´d been working for him and when he told me “a year”, I was amazed, if she had been that bad at her job why was she still with him? He said he didn´t want to get rid of her but intended to move her to another department (not necessarily and easy thing to do) so it appeared that she is unaware of her impending departure, which considering his urgency is very strange.
He gave me his business card and I now wonder if I should by pass contacting the HR woman and send him a message. I have read that it doesn´t hurt to follow up an interview – especially given his enthusiasm – with a thank you for taking the time to see me type reply. At the same time I could re-iterate my interest and let him know that I am still keen and waiting for his decision. I don´t know if I should mention that I have seen the job re-advertised or that I know my references have been contact – what´s your opinion.
I know that what´s meant to be is meant to be, but I have been incredibly unlucky finding a good job since losing my last one (they closed due to financial problems) and the older I get the harder it will be, so this job means everything to me!
Oh my god, TeriG! I got nervous just reading this.
I make it a point to be as positive and supportive as I know how here on Work Coach, and so please take what am about to say as simply some thoughts that may or may not be relevant.
Is there any part of you that gets a funny feeling about all this? Especially since you would be working directly for this guy? Do you know why the need to hire is so urgent? What happened to the last person? Someone who acts this way and throws out an offer of sorts so quickly and insists on an “immediate” meeting while the company continues to post the job even with some changes to the text – well, how do you think this person would be to work for on a daily basis? Might he not fire just as quickly?
Now I’ve worked for some “special” bosses and found that I could get along with them them even when they got a bit nuts. But that doesn’t mean I enjoyed the job. Just think carefully about whether this really is a person/company you want to work with. The high salary might mean nothing if you are treated this way every day.
Then again…he could just be a bit eccentric. And they could simply be playing it safe by continuing to post the job because it’s so urgent. But really ask yourself if you’d want to work there. If so, you’ve done all you can under the circumstances. Especially under these circumstances. If you get the offer and accept, I wish you much luck. But if you don’t get it…maybe that is the real miracle?
And again…please forgive me for answering this way. It’s just from what I read, every instinct inside me went off. There’s always so much more to the story than I could possibly know and all this could have perfectly understandable explanations, but I felt like I should at least give you another perspective based on what you’ve told us.
Good luck finding a job you love, whether it’s this one or another.
Ronnie Ann
Thanks for explaining! Clearly that adds to the picture – both on his side and yours. As long as you know he may be a bit of a character, considering how few and far between these kinds of jobs are for you under the circumstances, I can understand why you want to pursue this with full force.
I don’t know the customs of your country, so I cannot say if it’s wrong to send a note directly to him. What do you think? Can the HR person advise if it would be ok or would that feel awkward to ask? The fact that he gave you his card makes it seem ok, but I just don’t know what is right where you live. In the United States where I live, I always believe in sending a thank you note. Short, sweet and positive is best. In fact, if it turns out it is ok to send, the timing may be good since they are still looking and it would refresh his memory. Thank him for the interview and let him know you’re still interested. Don’t mention anything about seeing it re-posted.
Good luck, TeriG!
Ronnie Ann
Hi, just stumbled across this website whilst searching for post interview info and thought there was some interesting stuff being said. My situation is that I went for an interview 4 days ago, a large corporate company for PA to the CEO. I had to complete a telephone interview first and after that was told that they would call me the following week to get me to come in (it took place on a Friday morning). Anyway, I was amazed when I got a call a few hours later asking me if I could come in for the interview before the end of the day, bearing in mind it was Friday I thought this was quite an urgent request. Obviously I was delighted and rushed off to see them. I was interviewed directly by the CEO, which I had not expected and I felt the interview began very well. Half way through he began to give me very strong indications that he wanted me for the job, he even came out and said “I want you to work for me, do you want to?”, at which point I was taken aback. Of course I showed enthusiasm and pleasure at his response to me. He then asked me what I was looking for salary wise – this had already been told to me by the agency. I told him I would accept a figure that was around the salary I expected. He looked at me and said “no, that is too low, I want to pay you more!”, I must say I thought I was dreaming but at the same time thought it seemed inappropriate to react in this way. He then proceeded to write down on a piece of paper what he thought I should earn – which was nearly 10,000 more plus he said he´d pay me all my overtime and give me bonuses, non of which were on the job spec. I did feel unsettled by his manner. He kept looking through my CV commenting on how excellent it was and when he saw I had a degree he said that showed I had determination and followed things through (it hadn´t been requested by the agency). He said he had one more person to see the following Monday morning – this was 7pm on Friday evening, but that it was a formality as he really wanted me to get the job. I told him I would be very happy to work for him but to distance myself slightly from his over enthusasium I said he should think it through and that it was of course his decision. When I got home I had already been sent an email from the HR dept asking me to provide two references and giving me instructions to do an online personality test – I had never done or need to do one before. They required this by end of the Monday morning so I sent it off on time. I was a bit nervous about the personality test and a little annoyed that the CEO hadn´t even mentioned I would need to do this. I then found out on the Monday afternoon – a couple of hours after sending my email, that one of my references had been contacted (I am on good terms with all my ex-bosses and in regular contact so getting good references was not a problem). However, on looking through an online job search website I noticed that this company had placed their job vacancy again – the very same job I was being considered for (which incidentally I had been told was very urgent). This made me feel very confused and negative and I wondered why they´d bothered to put me through all this. Yesterday my other reference called me and said the company had contacted him at around lunch time and he´d sent my reference in the afternoon. This made me feel a bit better about things, especially as they´d followed up my reference after placing the advert again.
However, this morning I received an email from a recruitment agency who send me bulletins of new job offers and it was the same job that had just come on their books, strangely with a slightly higher salary and a couple of other specifications that were not previously listed. Needless to say I have not heard anything from the company and I do not know how to proceed. I feel like letting them know that I have seen their new job adverts and the fact that i know they´ve contacted my references but I also don´t want to make them feel awkward just in case a miracle happens and I get the job. I really don´t understand why they have followed up my references and are advertising again and have not had the courtesy to let me know their decision. After all, I rushed off to the interview last thing on Friday at their request so surely they should have the decency to put me out of my misery. Is there anything I can do to move things forward and do you think I am still in with a chance?????
Hi Marg Mary!
Welcome. Although one can never know for sure, the fact that she wanted to talk a little more with you privately about the company and her own experience being hired is certainly positive. Yes, she could still have been trying to learn more about you, but that only means she was interested.
I had to smile at your words “unfortunately” and “done with them”. Until you step out the front door into the fresh air, it’s good to remember you are still in the interview process. Even the way you talk to a receptionist is noted.
Of course, I know how nerve-wracking interviews can be, so I think I get what you mean. But for future reference…you WANT these opportunities to continue to connect and show how pleasant you’d be to work with! And you especially want them to be initiated by someone in the company as it was in your case.
While none of this is a guarantee, it sounds like things went very well. I wish you much luck! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
I had an interview that I felt went great & felt like I connected with them. We closed the interview & the office manager was showing me where the door was to go outside the waiting room which I thought I was done with them. But, unfortunately the office manager followed me inthe waiting to continue talking to me about the work place & how she got her job & how wonderful the place was & standing for about 3 minutes to chit chat. I s this a good sign she followed me to chit chat or to just feel me out? help
Hi Reea!
First, I love that you found a job you are this excited about. Why settle for less if you can get it?? I wish you much luck.
Now to answer your question about whether the length of time it took for them to contact you reflects on how long the interview process may take: yes and no. It may simply be they posted the position in a number of places and wanted to make sure they got enough resumes to review. Or they may have been overwhelmed by lots of resumes and taken a while to go through all of them. (This is not as easy as you might think.) But it could also be that they are slow in handling their internal business processes. There’s no way to know. The only thing you can be pretty sure about is that if you don’t hear from them soon, it doesn’t mean you are out of the running.
If you’ve checked out this company and feel good about their business practices and how they handle their employees in general (always good to do some search engine investigations including the Better Business Bureau), then something like waiting a month to first contact you means nothing. This is not unusual.
And you are right to note what the woman told you about her people skills in your interview. The fact that she mentioned this could be a red flag…but it also is hopeful that she knows this is one of the things she has to work on. Just keep it in mind if you do get the job so you aren’t surprised.
As for sending a follow-up e-mail…that’s a good idea. You might want to wait another week or so before doing that. Then you could let them know you are still interested and include what you want to say about their training program. Short and sweet is best.
Good luck! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Hello! Glad I found this site (through a search engine). I went for a job interview a little over a week ago that is in an industry that fits in wth my passions. The position is part-time. I would be traveling to different venues on this job, so it is not an office job. I have a college degree, however, the position does not require a college degree. It took the company about a month to contact me after I apllied for the position for an interview. During the interview, the interviewer showed me the routes that I would be on, told me that for training, they would probably fly me to another state, discussed the rate of pay, even gave suggestions for how I should handle the routes while working. She mentioned sometime during the interview that she is not a people person but has learned to be for the job, so this may mean that it will be hard to figure her out. My question is, does the fact that the company took a month to contact me for an interview also reflect the possibility of the hiring process taking longer as well? The things that were talked about during the interview, such as pay rate and actually showing me the routes and how I could go about hitting them, does that show good signs that she was interested in me? I am so interested in this position and it truly falls in line with what some of my passions are. We discussed some of the company’s ways of training compared with competitors that I truly agreed with and understood. I thought about sending something by email in regards to this. I sent a thank you letter the same day.
Hello Merle!
Glad you wrote back to let us know what happened. While I’m very sorry you didn’t get the original job, it’s nice to know they really liked you and wanted to hire you for a different job, even if there may not be budget for it.
Having worked with a major university for about 7 years, this is all too familiar. Budgets can be there and then they can disappear, but they can also reappear. So thank them, let them know you will start looking elsewhere, but ask if you may stay in touch since you’d really love to work there one day. Also (if this is at all feasible for you) let them know you are available on a consultant basis if the need arises. (It gets you in the door.)
(Personal note: I consulted almost all those years for the same area. I was actually offered a full-time job which I declined, preferring to stay a consultant.)
Good luck finding the right job, Merle. It’s been my pleasure to play even a small part in this story…which I know will have a happy ending. Please let me know when it does. 🙂
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie,
I wanted to give you an update to the email I sent on February 19th. I finally received a call back from the Chair (a month later) about the position that I interviewed for. To make a long story short, she called to let me know that they submitted another candidate for the position but that they were impressed with me enough to request hiring me for an additional position. While this is great news, she also informed that it didn’t look promising due to budget cuts. The phone call left me with mixed emotions because while I was excited that they are interested in me, I don’t have a job offer. I don’t know what will happen from here but I plan to keep looking for the position that I want. I appreciate the response you gave to my email because you mentioned that this could be one of the possibilities. It helped prepare me for what happened. Thanks for all the advice.
Hi Lexi25 and What Now??!
I’m just getting to my computer (feeling a little under the weather), and I have to say that this exchange brightened my day. Oh, please know that I really hope you still get these jobs, but I love that you let me know this helps even if only a little and I also love the way What Now?? stepped in to offer advice and encouragement. It would be great to have a central resource like this where people could form a support group for each other. We “experts” only know so much. It’s all of you who are going through this on a daily basis who know how it feels better than anyone.
And on a slight tangent…I’ve found that times like these are great motivators to think about what else we might like for ourselves, say 5 years from now – how to put more control into our own hands. Maybe one of you would even enjoy coaching! (-;
Now back to the topic at hand…the interview process is indeed something that drives the strongest people nuts. And YES, employers do not keep interviewees informed as well as they could. This is a good reminder for all of us. In some places, it’s that everyone gets so busy. In others, for legal reasons, Human Resources actually tells them not to communicate other than what HR does officially. And so, while they are sorting out what they want to do, the people for whom this means so much are left in the dark.
It is an awful awful process. Until you hear those magic words, of course. I hope both of you hear them soon. But if not…keep going. The right job IS out there. I’ve gone through dry spells where, despite all the things I’ve done in my life, I questioned whether I even had any skills anyone would ever again want. They did. They will!
All the best to you both.
Ronnie Ann
chin up lexi25! Im right there with you…
and you know what? what’s ment to be will. and I just keep telling myself that…you should too
I haven’t recieved a call yet or a letter regarding my interview that was 2 weeks ago today and lasted 3hrs long. I believe these employers march to the beat of their own drums, especially large companies. This doesn’t mean you are out of the running yet. No news, is good news! Thats the way i look at it. If you haven’t recieved a rejection letter in the mail, then there is a good chance that you are still in the running.
I absolutly know how you feel though. And the only thing we CAN do is wait for now. I’m not sure if you read my previous message or not, i am soo hoping that i get this job that i interviewed for. I think that after a week I will write a letter if i do not here anything and let them know that i am still interested.
I really do wish you much luck lexi25 and am keeping my fingers crossed for you and me!!!! =)
Hi Ronnie Ann,
I still have not heard from the interview that I had 2 weeks ago. I called them on Friday to ask if a decision has been made and they told me that they were still in the process, however I felt like they knew who they were going to hire but they did not want to say and its basically thurs and they have not called. So, I know that I did not get it. I think I am more upset about them not calling rather than me not getting the job. I just think that they could have at least done that. Oh well, I guess I have to move on now. Thanks for all the support I really needed that last week.
Thanks for explaining, What Now??
It sounds like you have a great attitude and perspective on all this. The answer you’ve been using “my old position wasn’t a good fit for my experience” is a perfect response. You might also finish up that response with something about how valued you were in your prior job for 5 years and how you are looking for a position where you can once again be an essential part of the team. This leaves the question about being fired with a positive – and truthful – spin.
Yes, we really do grow from this stuff if we learn what we can and let ourselves move on. What’s in the past is in the past. You have a lot to offer your next employer! Good luck.
Ronnie Ann
Thanks for your response! I will continue to look actively. Also, your suggestion for “try and buy” sounds great and if needed I will offer.
I am not working with a recruiter (agency), but yet with an internal recruiter for this potentail employer. He has been very informative on what it takes to wow the executives at this company from the beginning. In the interview, he even mentioned that i seemed “not comfortable” on delivery of “why i was fired” and that he could help. That made me feel great!
Anyway, my old employer was a very unprofessional work enviornment. Also, my manager/ trainer didn’t like me from the very beginning. She continuously made up false tales about me, and made me appear incompitent by not showing me a lot of things relavent to my job. This had happened to many others she trainer before me and resulted in all of them getting fired. And because she has been with the company a while, (and was a professional smoozer) they really took everything she said as being true. 🙁
My problem is, I really can’t convey to my potential employer any negative things about my old employer and the REAL reason I was fired. So, I basically say that my old position wasn’t a good fit for my experience. Is that ok?
In a since, I am happy that things panned out the way it did because i was absoulutly miserable there enduring her negative antics, lies, and condicending remarks daily. Furthermore, by my former employer choose to take-in one side of the stories told (and never ask me my side) then this wasn’t the company for me. This was a learning experience ( a hard one), as i had never been fired before. However, i truely think i could grow from it.
My employer before the last on was GREAT and I had been with the company 5yrs, and they absoulutly loved me there! I was awarded their for my efforts and was looked upon as the residental expert! 🙂 I guess the saying “the grass is greener on the other side” isn’t always true.
Well, I will keep you informed on what happens next! For now, I will keep my fingers crossed!
UPDATE
Hi What Now?? Since you’ve read all the other comments and my responses, I won’t repeat what’s already there. The fact that the job was reposted could mean they are still looking – although as you mention, it could also be a different but similar job.
If it is the same job reposted, they could have decided not to go with you, but they could also feel they simply haven’t seen enough people and want to interview more before making a decision. There are many reasons for this, and it does not mean you absolutely don’t have the job….but it does rightly make you wonder.
Of course, as you also suggest, you may have a reference problem. You say that prior references are good. Did something happen in your last job that makes you think there might be a problem? What does your recruiter tell you about this? Hopefully, it’s not as bad as you fear. But there are still ways around that in most cases.
There is one thing some people try, although with a recruiter I’m not sure how it would work. You could let them know you would be happy to do a “try and buy”. Basically, you’d offer to work for them as a temp in that position for a set number of weeks/months and see how it goes. If it works great. If not, you’ve both given it a shot. Not sure you or the company would go for this, but I figured it was worth mentioning.
Meanwhile…don’t give up hope. 40plusdc is right…you’ve done all you could so far. And please please please don’t see all these interview non-connections as failures. I’ve known really talented people that took a while to get past a poor reference or a string of bad luck, but when the right one comes, you will get it! I hope it’s this one, but in the meantime…just keep that momentum going! Keep applying even as you wait to hear from this one.
I wish I could do more to help, but you seem to be nicely on top of things. So all I can really do is let you know that the right job will come. Keep believing in yourself and in what you have to offer a new employer, ok?
I wish you all the best! Please let me know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Jumping in here to say that I think What Now??? has done about everything possible with the current prospect. The most important thing, which is pointed out in previous posts, is to keep up your active job search. Good luck.
Hi Ronnie Ann:
I’ve just came across your site after researching “How to tell is a job interview went well”. I find your responses to be very informative regarding the interview process.
After being let go from last employer, (for reasons beyond my control and a very long story) I have found it very difficult to get another job. I have no problem getting interviews. However, I get rejected by mail/ email if lucky. Most of the time I get no response at all. I have been on a total of 9 interviews since being fired in January and still nothing. I am aware of the bad economy, but somthing tells me that my last employer isn’t giving me a good reference. I have very long work history with 2nd to last employer and they thought of me in very high remarks.
I’m writing you because i recently had a interview with a HUGE company that I wish wish wish to join sooo badly.! After a phone screening interview, I was called in for an in person interview 2 weeks later. I was soo excited as i prepped and studied half the night prior. The interview lasted 3hrs and I met with 5 people. I had a good feeling about this interview after I left, that it would result in good things. But cant help but feel like I wont get the job because other interviews had not gone in my favor (which breaks my spirt, and makes me utterly depressed). I sent a thank you letter to each individual that I had met with .. At the end of interview I was told by corporate reruiter that they were still in the interviewing process and I should expect to here somthing back( good or bad) with in two weeks. It will be two weeks tomorrow. I am wondering whether I should call or write back if I do not hear anything by then ?.. And if soo, how long should i wait? This is the hardest part by far! ugggh!
Also, I have noticed a reposting of the job on the companys website (but with a different id # than the first one I interviewed for). Is it possible that they have counted me out? or maybe they have 2 similar positions available?
any advise would be appreciated and helpful!
Hi Iris!
First, congratulations on having two second interviews. Sounds like you have some good energy going there for you. I hope one of the jobs comes through soon.
As for how long this stuff takes…it can be really frustrating. I know. I’ve been on both sides. There are so many reasons these things can take a long time – even longer than the interviewers expect. Sometimes there are others being interviewed over a few weeks because of people’s schedules. Sometimes unexpected things come up that divert attention away from the interview process. Sometimes people get sick. It feels long to those of us being interviewed, but in a busy workplace, the weeks pass quickly.
Considering what you were told, I wouldn’t write either job off yet. If you already sent your thank you notes, then all you can do now is wait. And if you want, it’s ok to send another short polite note after a few weeks just to let them know you’re still interested.
Since you never completed an application, I doubt you are going through the background check yet – although anything is possible. Usually a government agency wouldn’t spend time and money to do one of these until an offer is made. And then, because of this and other internal processes, just know it takes more time before you can actually start. When I worked for government, the interview-to-hire process was quite lengthy.
Hope you hear something positive from one of them soon. In the meantime, I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you. Please let us know what happens.
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
Ronnie,
I have had two interviews, and I was called back for second interviews with both. One is a county job and the other with state of California. The state interview team told me that they would let me know in a ‘few’ weeks. The county job interviewer did not make any comment.
It has now been one month since the county interview and only two weeks since the state………….what takes so so long??
I never completed an application for either, are they doing background checks??
Thank you so much, your advice really helps! Will keep you posted.
Aw Lexi25. I hate the way the interview process leaves candidates feeling so helpless – and so in the dark. I wish I could give you a big hug.
First..it’s not too late for them to call you. The week isn’t over, with 30% of the week still left! There are many cases where something comes up and it takes their focus off a job they are filling. You may still hear from them with good news. On the other hand, they may have offered the job to someone else and the person is still deciding. Once that happens, they will probably send a letter, which is the official way to handle such things. On the other hand (that makes me three-handed), they may just be very bad at communication.
But in general, when you are one of the finalists and they’ve gone as far as checking your references, you should hear something back from them. And if you are being offered the job, even next week wouldn’t be unreasonable for the time-line they gave you. It’s just a best guess.
If you don’t hear anything by the middle of next week, a polite e-mail would be fine. Don’t give up hope yet. I’m still rooting for you to get a “yes!”
Good luck, lexi25! Please let me know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Work Coach,
This is Lexi25 again, I thought I would have some good news by now but today is thursday and I still have not heard anything from my interviewers. So, now I think that the chance of me getting that job is very low. Do you think its too late for them to call me? They told me sometime this week and its almost the end of the week and still nothing. Do you know of any cases where interviewers check a candidates references and never even called to say that they went with someone else for the job?
I’m in a total mess I really thought I would have got this job at least this time around.
Hello again Netta!
Clearly no one who just reads a few of your comments can tell you what to do – nor should they. In an ideal world, you would have a coach working closely with you during this all-important transition time. But I totally understand this may not be possible financially. So here goes…
First, as you yourself say you haven’t been at this temp job all that long. It takes a good while to make connections and get people on your side who can help you get hired. So of course, internal networking and building up a good reputation is one goal. But you say you’re told they prefer to hire internally. That raises three thoughts…(1) although they’d RATHER hire internally, that doesn’t mean they won’t hire from the outside; (2) after you’ve been there long enough, you may start to feel like an internal person to them; and (3) words like that are sometimes a smoke screen, used to keep things as they are. Or they can even be a signal letting you know you don’t have much chance there.
We have no way of assessing what they are really thinking. Maybe there could be a real opportunity after you’ve been there a while, made yourself indispensable, and found connections with people high enough to help you. But maybe not. I’ve temped places where, despite all I had to offer, it just wasn’t the right fit…and so I moved on until I found that aaaaah! You pretty much know it when you feel it. And, of course, you can always just stay where you are and put your efforts toward eventually finding the job – or consulting work – you really want.
But, if I may be so bold as to be corny, from the little I know about you, you seem like someone who is sharp and able to assess a situation – and then figure out what to do about it. Read you’ve written me (and the responses) and see what your gut is telling you. I would not be so foolish as to offer advice from this distance, but I think you can figure it out yourself. Sometimes, just presenting it as you have helps you see what your next move should be.
Please let us know what you decide to do. It might help others. And remember…these things take time – unfortunately sometimes up to a year or more – but I am hopeful the right situation will eventually present itself. I look forward to the day when will start calling yourself “Netta-Victorious!” (-;
Good luck!
Ronnie Ann
I am still a temp, now what! I have been temping at a certain company since November of last year with the hopes of getting a permanent position. However, they have expressed to others and not me directly (very unprofessional) that they would rather hire internally. My feedback from my staffing service from the employer has been excellent. They also made me train the new girl. Which I wasn’t too happy about but I kept my cool. I smile and train the lady the best way I can, I’ve haven’t been here that long and I am still learning. I’ve been applying for numerous jobs, but nothing yet but empty interviews. Should I tell the temp service to reassign me, or stay and bear it with unsure hope?
Thanks for the reply Ronnie Ann. I’ll let you know as soon as I hear from them.
Hi Lexi25!
Sorry I can’t be more definite, but each employer has their own way of doing interviews. So the best I can tell you is that they are seriously interested in you. Some check all their finalists and some only the one they are most interested in. Of course, it also depends on what the references said. Assuming it was all good, you have a very good chance of hearing from them soon. But because there could be another candidate or two, you still need to keep your fingers crossed. I’ll do the same. (-;
Good luck. I hope you hear some good news this coming week! Please let us know if you do.
Fingers and eyes crossed,
Ronnie Ann
Hello Work Coach,
I have a question, I went on my second interview for a job this week. Right after the interview my references were checked. I think it was like a day after the second interview they were checked. I followed up with my references and they told me that they had called. Can I assume that I got the job or will they call the references of other candidates as well?
Hello again 40plusdc!
So sorry about your own recent frustrating experience. Sounds like you handled it perfectly – first by allowing yourself to acknowledge your feelings and vent (and get some much-deserved love and support), and then by thinking about how to leave the company with a nice reminder of who you are. Perhaps an actual snail-mail letter with your card attached? I have a card with a few of the consulting services I specialize in listed right on it for such purposes.
Thanks for your kind words. Since you yourself offer such good advice, that means a lot to me. I wish you much luck in your search for the right open door – or at least one that feels pretty darn good. (-;
Ronnie Ann
Wow! This advice is so spot on. I share Netta-Frustrated’s anguish, having gone thru a similar experience just this week. The first reaction, lasting a day or so, was a toxic combination of rage, frustration, and depression. Fortunately, I have a good support network — family and colleagues, as I suspect so does Netta — with whom I can safely vent and let go.
I’ve been mulling over a gracious response to my prospective employer, something along these lines: “While disappointed about not being offered [the position], I appreciate your consideration. If needed in the future, I am available to assist on specific projects as a consultant.”
I’ve moved on and continue the search for a full-time position, but as you suggest, it’s always a good idea to keep an open door. You never know where it may lead.
You sound like an employer’s dream, Netta! You’re so right about the current job market. Everything slows down when times are tough – but having been through this myself, the openings do come eventually.
In your thank you note (forgive me for being obvious) but make sure that you let them know how much you enjoyed meeting all of them and that you would love to be considered for any openings they have or may hear about in the future.
Out of curiosity, since you already have an MBA, is there a local college or university with a certificate program that might help you jump start things? Or some weekend exec brush-up courses? This might be easier to handle with your family and could still net you some contacts. Also, make sure to get in touch with the place you got your MBA from and see if they have any alumni or alumni programs in your area that might be able to help you.
In a tight economy, contacts and a good network are more important than anything! Oh…and don’t be shy about letting people you socialize with know what you are looking for. I once met a man at a barbecue who got me to a job interview that got me to another interview that eventually landed me a job I wanted.
Some final thoughts. These may be a stretch since you said you need the income, but what the heck. I’ll throw them into the pot in case they help you or anyone reading this. A creative way to get to where you want is to offer yourself on a trial basis somewhere or propose a similar position in a non-profit, offering to do it for free or at a very low consulting fee. And of course, don’t forget the idea of freelancing as a consultant. You might identify a niche from the work you’ve been doing and market yourself as an independent contractor, as I’ve done for many years. It offers flexibility and good $$$. Who knows…the company you interviewed for might become a client!
Good luck with whatever you wind up choosing. If you set a realistic time frame (which, unfortunately, in a tight economy can be 6 months or a year) I have a strong feeling you’ll get there. Probably even sooner with a little luck and lots of creativity!
Thanks for the advice. I really appreciate it. I am 31 and I have my MBA. I am not sure if I want my doctorate yet. I am also a mother and my time is devoted to my daughter and husband. I will send a thank you letter to the people who interviewed me. Even though, I thought things went well enough to be hired. I usually land all jobs, I want. I am a confident, determined employee and I get along well with others in any work environment. I still speak to most of my previous managers. I also dress professionally and conduct myself this way at my curent temp job and at all interviews. I am training my replacement now. I don’t like it, but no one can tell. I guess the economy is just showing me what the market already illustrates, it’s slow and jobs are even harder to come by. If you can offer any other advice, I look forward to it. Thanks again.
Oh Netta-Frustrated! You were so close. I hate that. We’ve all been there, but that doesn’t help you much at this moment. I’m so sorry.
No way I can really tell you what to do without knowing much more about you and your situation. I can say that sometimes, when your career is stalled or doors won’t open, the best way to turn things around is to go back to school. Many many moons ago my B.A. in theater wasn’t opening any doors I wanted. But very shortly after starting my MBA – even though I was the exact same person – I easily found a job consulting to a major bank. I remembering being amazed since banks wouldn’t look at me before. I didn’t even have my degree yet, but what school did for me was open me up to new contacts and the school’s own network of employers. Perhaps that is what you need if you have specific career plans.
But I will also tell you that, even after I had my MBA, I sometimes went back and did some temping because it got me into doors I might never have found – and I was offered good jobs once they saw my work ethic and knew who I was. In one company, I worked in 4 or 5 different areas, but finally got to a great temp job there and then talked my way up into consulting for them. You see, I never worried what people were thinking about me – or whether they looked “down” on me. I knew who I was and that I had a lot to offer the company. And attitude and how we feel about (and present) ourselves does show. If you go into these temp jobs dressing and acting as if you are capable of much more and really believing that inside yourself – and also letting people know casually what you are looking for – sometimes you get people willing to help you.
So either route might get you to where you want to go. Only you can figure that out. Oh…and one more thing, Just because this particular company rejected you, the fact that they showed so much interest is actually a hopeful thing. I once knew a man who wanted to work for CBS Records and he went for 4 SEPARATE interviews – and was rejected each time. But he wasn’t giving up, and on the FIFTH, he made it. Wound up becoming a VP and had a long career there. If you still want to work there, think about other ways to get in the door, even if you have to temp for a while before you get what you really want. (And also be open to other opportunities popping up elsewhere even if you have your mind set on one place. It sometimes happens that way.)
I have so much more I could tell you about why not to let this experience get you down. But the best thing I can tell you is that, if you set your mind on what you want, you can find way to get there. You just may have to adjust the picture a bit to match the opportunities in your area. But they are there for you, no matter which route you take. This I know for sure. But if you think education might open some doors and a Ph.D. is actually something you would like, you’ve got nothing to lose by trying.
Sorry I couldn’t be more specific. Hope some of this helps. Good luck!!
Ronnie Ann
I had 4 interviews with a company that I really wanted to work for. I answered all of their questions to the best of my ability. I am qualified for the position with education and experience. So, then why did I just get a rejection letter today???????? The letter states that they found someone with more qualifications. I guess, I should have know when the last interviewer said you move around a lot. I assured her that I am a military wife and Milwaukee will be my home now since my hubby is getting out of the military. My question is now what? Do I go back to school for a doctorate or continue to be a temp. I hate temping because people look down on you but it pays the bills.
Hi Merle! As someone who consulted to a major university for over 7 years, I know all too well there is no good general rule here. I wish there were. We sometimes had to wait several weeks before the second round because of people’s schedules and a variety of other factors. And, I myself once waited three months before I got the call for a second interview at a university. Even though I assumed they had found someone else, turned out I was the top candidate. So you really never do know.
When I interview people, I do let them know what the next steps are if at all possible, but I usually can’t tell them at the first interview whether there will be another one for them. We first need to finish the interviews and then meet with all concerned to compare notes and strategize. Sometimes we had to redesign the job because of who we interviewed, and sometimes we even wound up reassessing our needs and creating a second position for someone we liked who wasn’t the top candidate, although that took more time of course. So there are many factors and possibilities, which is why I can’t give you a clear rule.
Basically, it means nothing that you haven’t heard from them, even though it’s been two weeks. And usually they wouldn’t check references until they were at the end of the process and had a final candidate or two. So although I wish I could take away the pain of waiting, there is nothing for you to do now but wait. If you’ve sent your thank you note already, it would be ok in another week or so to send a short sweet note just saying you are still available and interested.
I hope you will have the luck some of other people who commented on this blog have had and get that second interview soon! Please let us know if you do.
All the best!!!
Ronnie Ann
Hi,
I just happened to find this article after doing a search on how to tell if a job interview went well. Here’s my story: I had a interview with a major university two weeks ago. It was conducted by a search committee (which was a first for me). It was a 45 minute interview with 11 questions. Most of the questions were behavioral ones. I was told to pace myself so that I could answer all of the questions within the alloted amount of time and hopefully have time to ask a few of my own. I was so proud of myself for being able to answer each question to the best of my ability and had time to ask 3 of my own. I think things went well but I guess you always second guess yourself. It was hard to make contact with 6 people at once, but I know I connected with a few of them on a couple of my answers because they made comments on how they could relate.
The supervisor told me that she couldn’t give me a timeline because of the bureaucracy involved. I know I have no choice but to wait and from everything I have read so far, this is not unusual in Higher Ed. My only question is, do you think it would take more than 2 weeks to decide on 2nd interviews? The supervisor didn’t mention 2nd interviews but I would have to believe that they would need to have them. Since she didn’t mention it, do I take that as a sign they are not interested in me as a candidate. I don’t know what to think. I know they haven’t checked any of the references that I gave.
Thanks for writing a article like this, it really helps.
Oh my god! That’s so wonderful. I feel so honored being let into the process! Only wish I could do that for everyone. (-;
Congratulations, Sheryl. I wish you much luck in the new position. Glad you didn’t have to wait even another day. Wuhooo!
Thank you so much Ronnie Ann! I read your post and about an hour afterward I got a phone call from HR and an offer for the position!
Hi Sheryl!
First, let me congratulate you on what appears to have been an excellent interview. So many good signs. And yet, I know that until you hear those magic words, it all feels so unsure. Waiting under these circumstances is a really hard thing. A good time to take up a new hobby to focus your brain on! (Things like knitting or painting or working with clay or puzzles or maybe even tai chi, yoga or meditation are great for “mindless” focus. So is starting a blog about the waiting time! (-;)
But for most people, even that won’t keep the thoughts from flying…and the minutes from crawling. I know. Sigh.
I wish I could tell you something you don’t already know, but at this point…all you can do is wait. With people out of town and so many other things that pop up, these things often take longer than even the interviewer anticipates. So breathe deeply, think positive thoughts, work on that hobby, and wait for the call. If you haven’t heard anything by a week (or two if you can stand it) from the Monday they mentioned, it would be ok to send a polite e-mail letting them know you are still interested. Other than that, not much else to do. Meanwhile I’m sending out positive thoughts that you get the job!
Please let us know what happens. Good luck!!!
Ronnie Ann
Hi,
I went on a second interview last week on Wednesday. I think that it went well. I was able to answer all the questions that they asked with examples. My interview was scheduled to last for an hour but it ended up lasting for an hour and 20 minutes. I got a tour of the facility. Before the interview concluded, I asked how long I should wait to hear from them regarding the decision. The woman asked if I was actively pursuing other job opportunities and I said that I was. She told me that she and the other interviewer (the scientist who would be my supervisor) think that I would be a “good fit” for the position. She also said that at the earliest they would have decided last Friday but at the latest they want to make a decision by next week on Monday. Some of the people including my potential supervisor will be out of town for training this whole week. She did mention what some of the company benefits are. I also asked how many candidates they are interviewing for the position. She told me there were a stack of resumes from people who were interested but that my resume was among the top 5 candidates. And she also said that I was the second person to interview and they scheduled one more interview that day.
I submitted my references to the HR person the following morning after my interview. I was told by two of my references that they were contacted that same day. I made sure to send a thank you note to my interviewer. Now I guess I just have to wait. Since she gave me a week and half long time frame during which the decision would be made, should I wait until the end of that time frame to contact them if I haven’t heard anything at that point?
I definitely agree with everyone else that patience, especially in these situations, is something that requires so much self restraint and practice.
Thanks!
Hi Mellony!
Having worked at a major university for many years, I can tell you that many weeks sometimes passed before we got to the second round, even when we needed the replacement right away. Academia can be really hectic at times.
That said, if you’ve already sent a thank you note, all you can so for now is wait. (If not, send one out today.) If a few weeks pass and you’ve still heard nothing, odds are you won’t get the second interview. But it’s still ok to send a polite note saying you assume they have already gone to the second round and are sorry you weren’t part of it, but would still very much like to be considered for any other jobs that may arise.
Oh…by the way, nervous is fine. They expect that. I hope you hear back from them with some good news. If not, this was a great practice session for the next one. (-;
Good luck!
recently i applied for a job and was called for an interview. I felt pretty good about the interview, had great eye contact, but i also felt nervous. I was told the process that the position needs to be filled soon and if selected you will be scheduled for a second interview. So far it has been a week. It doesn’t look to good. Any suggestions. This is at a university.
Hi Kevin. You’ll find an e-mail from me, even though I normally don’t answer privately. I can see you need some advice right away. I’ll also respond to this soon in a post for other people to see.
Good luck!!
I had two job interviews today. The one, I can tell that they were not intrestead in me at all. I haven’t worked in seven years because I was on total disablitiy and still get it today. I want to go back to work and to get back into working force again. But, I am not sure in how the other interview went. I feel that the interview went good. But, I am not sure. I am so confussed and got mixed meassages from the interviewer. We talked for about 30 mins. I think, The interviewer even asked me. What kind of pay I was seeking. I told him that it was open for us to disscuss, but minum was fine. He also asked me if I had a problem or wanted to work a five hour shift for four days or three days for eight hour shift striaght. I told him I would like to work eight hours, but I would be happy to work for what ever shift he would give me if I was given the postion and do what ever he needs me to do or when. He then told me that I also was his first interview and the first one that he called in for a interview for the job so far. He then said that he had just posted the ad in the paper and the help wanted sign in the window and wanted to see what kind of response he would get. But, then he said that I would be fine for the part time postion. Because he is losing two people and wants to fill their post. So I not sure if that means he is intrestead in me and that I am getting the job? I made sure to thank him and shook his hand. He handed me his buessiness card. So I am confuessed does that mean I might have got the job? If so how long should I wait until I call him back to check on things and my applicaiton? So I really confussed does that mean he is intrestead in me and I have the job? What would you all do if you were in my shoes? Please help me!
WUHOOOO!!! This is great news. I’m so proud of you and happy for you! Congratulations!!!!! Good luck, Jason
Ronnie Ann, I got the call today!! I start in a few weeks, I’m so excited!
Just so you know…I still practice it. Not always successful, which is why I have to practice!
Thank you so much. your answer basically described what I was originally feeling. So now I am practicing patience.
Hi Jason! Sorry I didn’t see your other question about the phone call. I think it hasn’t even been a full two weeks since your second interview and they told you there are a few layers of approval here. So, as hard as it is, be patient. At this point, having already sent a polite e-mail, there’s nothing more for you to do.
As I’ve said before, these things can take a few weeks – or more – especially with more than one layer of approval! Even if the person is hoping for a quick answer from higher up, there can be many reasons for the delay. Don’t bug them at this point. It’s not like they forgot you! And definitely not a phone call in this situation. I know when we’re waiting for an answer, each day feels long. But on their end, lots of stuff is going on that has nothing to do with this particular job. I know. I’ve been there.
Sounds like the wheels are appropriately in motion. Just let them get back to you one way or the other. You’ve done your best and clearly you are one of their top choices. If, as Dave suggested, a few more weeks pass and you still haven’t heard anything, then a polite e-mail letting them know you are still interested is a nice idea.
Good luck! Hope you’ll hear some good news soon.
The initial thank-you note after the interview is very important. But, like all of us in similar situations, you’re anxious to know the outcome. If you’re now a few weeks over the time you thought they’d be making a decision, I suggest sending another polite email. Call it a follow up and let them know you’re still interested in the position. But I’d be careful about asking when they expect to decide. They really don’t owe you a specific response and could take offense. Hang in there, and good luck.
I do agree with that, I sent a thank you note by email the day following the interview.
Couple of points: Employers tend to make hiring decisions in a deliberate fashion, especially if it’s a large organization. We find that their time frame rarely meshes with ours, despite what an interviewer may say. Stay calm and continue your job search. Second, Ronnie Ann makes a great suggestion to drop a polite note to let them know you’re still interested. That’s a much better idea, I think, than making a phone call, which may be somewhat offputting.
OK I have a question. I expect that they have already made their decision or are in the process at this point. During the 2nd interview I asked when I should hear back from them. From their answer it should be coming any day now. Since they gave me sort of a timeline, would it be out of line to call them?
Phew. Appreciate that. It does get tough typing that way. Hoping to get the good news soon!
Thanks,
I will definitely let you know the news whether its good or bad. My interview was last wednesday and they said that I would hear something a week from monday. They told me that if they (being the district and regional manager) approved then they would have to get approval from the main office. I’m hoping, and praying! Thanks for keeping your fingers crossed, however, if it is effecting your typing skills then feel free to uncross them. haha
Welcome back, Jason! Congratulations on getting this far. I have all my fingers crossed for you. (Hard to type.)
As for your question…reference checking is a funny thing. Once again, there’s no absolute rule, but I can tell you when I do reference checking, I very much want to speak with work references. I’m sure they have their reasons (maybe they know of your work through someone else or maybe this is more of a learn-as-you-go position and all they need is some character references), or they may be so impressed they are doing the bare minimum. Of course, they may not be done yet either. (-;
It sounds good and, although I know anything is still possible, I’m really hoping to get another message from you soon saying I GOT IT! Please let us know! I’m rooting for you.
I know that they contacted all three of my character references but I dont think they contacted my professional references. Is this common?
Nice comment! Thanks. You are so right about momentum! Keep going even if you’ve found THE job. For many reasons, it may not be….but the next one might!
Just want to add that how you follow up after an interview might depend on the level/type of job your going for. Employers get weirded out easily if someone comes on too strong. But a nice thank you and reinforcement of your interest can never hurt.
In my case with that employer who wasn’t ready for the in-person until 3 months from my phone interview because of organizational changes (I found out it was for real), after about a month I dropped them a very polite note just letting them know I was still interested in this and, if this job were no longer available, please consider me for future opportunities. Turned out I was their number one candidate, but they still needed time. I dropped them another polite note in about another month. No pushing from my side. If it’s right, it will work out. After three months I got the call that they wanted to fly me up to an old day interview. Patience and politeness pay off. But in that case, telling them about their business (they are a major university) wouldn’t have added anything. As I say again and again, people should read all of our suggestions and then use their gut to decide what’s right for them in their particular situation.
Best of luck with your new blog! (I took the liberty of adding a live URL link to your name to make it easier for people to find you.)
First of all, great blog. We started the 40plusdc.wordpress.com blog a couple of weeks ago, and we hope to eventually generate the the kind of exchange you’ve got going here.
As to Jason’s point, we rarely see that letter of rejection. Most of the time you either get an offer or hear nothing. One excuse we’ve heard from employers for this rude behavior: they want to keep their options open if the first candidate doesn’t work out. We advise folks to be patient, especially when you’ve had a good interview and feel you’re close to a job offer. The danger is slacking off the job search and losing your momentum. Employers, especially big companies, tend to have a long time frame for hiring decisions.
We don’t recommend contacting prospects to nag about job status, but an effective tactic to consider is sending the decisionmaker something of value to the company. Forwarding information, such as an observation about a competitor in the news, shows you’re thinking about them, and as Martha Stewart says, “that’s a good thing.”
I most definitely wish you well, Jason! Sounds very hopeful. Looks like you did all the right things and that’s the most anyone can do. I’m hoping you hear those magic words “We’d like to offer you the job” very soon.
Good luck!
I had a 2nd job interview today. I feel like it went pretty well. When the manager called to ask me if I was interested in the 2nd interview he said that they would go more in-depth about compensation. There were definitely more tough questions during the first and we did indeed talk about salary, benefits, etc. The interview lasted around 40 minutes and I made sure to let them know that I was definitely interested, but like you said you will never know until you get a call for an offer or a letter of rejection. Wish me luck!
Good luck Mark! Sounds like you have good perspective as well as a great attitude about the whole thing.
I actually sent Nancy (above) a personal note about phone interviews and was thinking of doing a post about them. Your comment tells me it’s something others will want also. Thanks much for the feedback! Until then, the most important hint I can give you is to really listen and respond with as much (natural) energy as possible. Prepare stories just like you would for an in-person interview and use when needed. Since this is tough for you, practice with a friend or even a tape recorder until it feels more natural. Hope that will hold you until I post the real thing. (-;
Update: I hope this helps. I just added a post on phone interviews that can be found by clicking here: Please Help Me Ace My Phone Interview!
Thanks for the info here – I was looking for clues that my recent interview might have gone well. I got the standard “I have other people to see but I’ll let you know by next week” thing. Was quite a short, but the interviewer hinted it would be short because I’d worked there before on a temporary basis, so no roleplay exercise or psychometric test was involved, mostly just questions related to how I found my past experience, and why I applied for this job. I think I can safely answer yes to most of the examples you gave, and even if I don’t get the job I can at least use it as a guide for what I did right, for the next job I apply for.
The poster above me mentioned telephone interviews, which I may also come up against (my phone manner is dreadful though!). I was wondering how to handle and prepare for these, as well as things like roleplay exercises and tests. Thanks again.
I was wondering if you would be able to provide any hints on phone interviews. Unfortunately we are unable to see the recruiter and cannot rely on visual cues. I have just had a phone interview 2 days ago (screening candidates) and felt things went well. This is a first phase interview and successful candidates are then sent for an onsite interview. She did say at the end of the interview that she would certainly recommend me for an onsite interview and wished me good luck. How long would it take (if I am selected for a 2nd interview) to receive a phone call?
David…I love getting helpful comments and appreciate different perspectives. If you read my section on the right of the front page “About Experts” you’ll see that I do not claim to know everything (lord knows!) and wouldn’t trust anyone who said they did know everything! To me, a blog is made stronger by the people who comment. So thank you. Sincerely!
You are so right. I’ve been on many MANY interviews as well as given them, and I have to agree…you never know what it’s going to be like or who you are going to meet or whether the person is just having a rotten day. All we can do is try our best. And be as flexible as possible. But for me, if the interview makes me uncomfortable, then there’s a good chance I’d hate working there anyway. If a place doesn’t have at least some sense of humor, it’s not for me! But of course, each person has to judge for themselves.
Thanks for clarifying. Your comments always welcome. Good luck in all your pursuits!
Your welcome. Your article is very good. I do agree with everything you said for the most part. I am sorry if I came off as being pushy with my opinion. I have been on both sides of t he fence. In a recent interview, I was asked prewritten question. It was very formal. Very strange. Normally I can break the ice by smiling and making eye contact, and joking in a way that is not offensive. But this was different.
Thanks David. Great advice. Yes…I didn’t mean to imply that mere smiles or nodding mean cha ching, you got the job. As I said, you never know until you get the offer. These are all cues that might give you an idea, but for oh so many unknowable reasons, you don’t know until you know. Appreciate the excellent comment!
I have noted from experience that smiles and nodding are no promise of a job or a call back. The less scripted may mean they like your sense of humor but do not see you in the post. Also, interviewing is a difficult job to perform. Sometimes lower management will sit in or do initial interviews. They can be just as nervous as the applicant. The best thing any applicant can do is smile. Answer clearly and keep it brief as possible. Prepare yourself for the interview. Know as much going in as you can. At the end of the interview take any opportunity to sum up your responses and be sure to shake their hand(s) and thank them. Follow up with a thank you note or e-mail. You would be surprised how much that impresses people.
Sorry to hear about your experience. Yes…sometimes I’ve interviewed people for an hour, but they didn’t get a call-back. At least the fact that you were in there for 50 minutes shows they were probably quite interested. Hopefully the next interview will be the one.
Good luck finding the right job, Rachel!
This is good information but well I once got interview for 50 mins for a saturday job and then I didnt get the job!!!!!….so I guess your write there is NO way to find out until you get the call.