Dear Work Coach,
Hey there! Really glad I came across your site. So, here’s my story:
I interviewed with a company and felt as though I had a wonderful interview. So wonderful that I even just turned down an official offer to hold out and see where things go. I know that might not have been the greatest move, but my gut told me the other job wasn’t for me (regardless of this job) and there is no need to settle…after all, this is my career.
I had an initial phone screen beginning of last week and they invited me in for a 2nd interview (first face-to-face) the end of last week and I was told that I would hear back from them regarding a 3rd and final interview by Wednesday or Thursday (today is Thursday). I received an email stating that no decision had been made and that I should expect to hear from them the week after Thanksgiving regarding a 3rd interview.
I take a couple of things away from this. The first is that it’s a good sign because they’re keeping me in the loop, which may mean they’re interested. The second is that this could be a way of stringing me along in case it doesn’t work with another candidate. Any thoughts? It’s definitely good to hear a perspective of someone other than a friend or family member that loves you dearly.
Thanks and have a wonderful day!
Sincerely,
Lee
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Hi Lee!
First, congratulations on making it to this point. It really does sound like you have a good shot at the job.
You’re smart to be aware there are several possible realities behind what was told you. They very well may have made another offer. Or there may be a potential hold on the job because of the economy. Or they found a new candidate and want to give him or her a chance to catch up.
But odds are it’s simply related to Thanksgiving and various people taking extra time off. Stuff like that makes it hard to coordinate interview times – or even get critical people to respond. It’s just the way it seems to work.
I very much like that they got back to you on time about the delay. So I would be cautiously optimistic about getting the next interview and about how highly they seem to regard your candidacy.
Best of luck turning this maybe into a big YES! Oh…and I admire the risk you took turning down that other job. As you say, it is your career – and if you don’t have to settle, by all means hang out for the job you really want. Risks like these pay off in the long run because it puts you in a better position for the right doors to open!
Meanwhile, enjoy your Thanksgiving with loved ones, Lee. And please keep us posted.
Ronnie Ann
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New Work Coach Cafe Policy:
Although I had to stop answering individual questions (to preserve my sanity), your thoughts and stories are VERY welcome here.
Ouch…waiting for communication before an upcoming holiday. That’s just torture! Good luck and enjoy the holidays and don’t think about getting “the call”.
Hi R.A.!
Hi Mr X!
Nice to see you. You made my evening.
Always appreciate your visits and words of comfort. So right about just letting it go and enjoying the holiday. Time enough the week after to think about all that other stuff. For now…let’s just think stuffing.
Happy turkey day Mr. X!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann
I love your blog, its really informative and useful and I wish I’d found it sooner. I wonder if i can ask a few questions post interview as I’m pacing and don’t know what to do with myself whilst waiting for news. I’ll try and keep it concise.
I got an interview within 24hrs of sending my resume
I prepared, a bit nervous, but the interview was good. I had two, one short one with HR and a longer one with management.
It went lasted an hour and half, I was asked about salary and when I could start, and shown around the office.
I came away feeling it was a great experience and despite the fact it was an interview with tough questions, there was a very good vibe.
The one thing I forgot was to secure a time frame and what the next step would be. The manager said they would be in touch. I followed up the next day by email requesting the time frame etc..and since nothing. My refs are ‘on request’ and they havn’t asked for any.
My last contact was Friday. Its Tuesday and I’m pacing already..
I discovered the ad had been placed nearly three weeks ago, so I wondered if this sheds any light on how soon they want to fill the position (of which there is two vacancies)..
Any feedback on what to expect is greatly appreciated.
Thankyou!
Hi Bobby!
First of all…congratulations on speeding through this interview process. You have you know.
The fact that they contacted you so quickly does show they are eager to fill the position. But a few extra days of waiting is not at all a bad sign. You can’t push them at this point. They know who you are and what it would take to get you. They may simply want to interview a few more folks before committing to the next step, which will either be another interview or an offer if they are indeed interested.
And just to explain a bit more about why they aren’t rushing to respond…they may have placed other ads or be working with a recruitment firm in addition to the ads, so other candidates could still be lined up for interviews. Plus, there are various sign-offs to procure within companies. And some people (like me) only call the references when they are absolutely ready to make an actual offer.
This is the time to for you relax and think positive thoughts. You’ve done a great job so far. I hope you wind up with some good news soon.
Good luck, Bobby! Please let us know what happens.
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann
Thanks for your kind words – I’ve been using the time to research and am reading through your entire blog to calm my anxiety!
I read your article on reviewing your cv and the results it can achieve. This is true for me , since doing this has achieved a complete turnaround in less than a week. For one the interview above came overnight, and today I had several enquiries from recruitments repping the same position, of which I have also now got an interview for later this week. Updating the resume has instigated the change in events for sure!
So – now another interview in the pipeline, whilst waiting to hear about the other, of which I would be equally happy to get. This should keep my mind occupied from the constant questions.
let me tell ya, achieving a job at the end of a very long and painful journey will be a massive relief!
I just keep wondering if no news is bad news, and if one thankyou (unreplied to ) is enough.
I really appreciate your advice and support! Thankyou
Hi again Bobby!
You sound like you and your new resume are on a roll. (Thanks for helping people know it really does make a difference.) Congratulations. Ride it for all it’s worth. You never know what else might show up.
My dear friend Richard has an answer for one of your questions. His take on it is: “No news is no news.” Meaning…don’t sweat what you don’t know.
As for the one unanswered thank you being enough…yes. This is totally normal. While of course they could have someone else they prefer, often they don’t want to signal anything, so they wait to answer until they have it figured out. And remember…a person can also be sick or on vacation!
At this point you want to lay back and ride the other waves. If you haven’t heard by the end of next week (maybe even next Wednesday if you are really anxious – and remember this is Thanksgiving week if you are in the US when all such work seems to stop
), send another polite e-mail just asking your status. No need to push about the process details unless you have an offer from elsewhere.
These things really do take time even if they need to hire someone soon. It’s just the way it works. Two-three weeks is not long in interview process time, even if it feels interminable to those of us waiting to hear back.
Good luck on all the interviews, Bobby. I hope something good will come your way soon. And thanks for reading my posts. Hope you’ll find interesting tidbits for now and the future!
Ronnie Ann
hey Ronnie Ann you’re a star – we are not in the u.s, so fortunately no holiday interruptions. I was hoping they would want to recruit in time for the busy season – since it involves retail/sales..
my partner said the exact same thing – they could be sick or away ! yep even a heavy load of books may have landed on their head..who knows, my new motto is no news is no news!
I will let you know if anything happens
Again, thank you for your wisdom!
“hey Ronnie Ann you’re a star”…I concur!
Thanks Bobby and Mr. X! Big smile on my face.
And once again…good luck Bobby. Great new motto, btw!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann
I’m still here stuck in the waiting/not knowing anything vortex and I’m feeling frustrated bordering on angry.
I called up end of last week (just over a week after interview) – guess what you were right, a delay in their process due to staffing situation. They were supposed to shortlist end of this week gone. I haven’t heard any updates. The good news on that front is that she asked is I’d had any change so I explained I’d had an interview with another company, of which she asked me to let her know of nay further news and they would be in touch soon.
The other job interview alos went well, but despite enquiring through the independent recruiter, I have not had any news and that one was supposed to shortlist weds gone. I’m not sure that one is right though , neverthless I’m so angry no one can be bothered to update me.
It may seem righteous, but this system sucks. they must know its torture. What am I supposed to do? I dont want to take anymore interviews until I know what the situation is, its too draining.
I would value your feedback Ronnie, thankyou!
sorry about typos — too late to edit!
Hi again Bobby!
I’m so sorry all this is so painful. I wrote a post a while back A Plea for Mercy to Human Resource Professionals (and Anyone Else Interviewing People for Jobs), but I guess it hasn’t changed them yet!
Although I wish it were different, this is just the way it is. Please know they aren’t purposefully torturing anyone, even if it feels that way. I’ve been on that other side many times, and sometimes it’s just part of the process for them – with days flying by so quickly they don’t even think about those stuck in the waiting game.
These things can take many weeks and sometimes slow down at year end. But the real trick to job hunting is NOT to let what they do effect what you need for YOURSELF!
Perseverance is your best ally. And patience, of course. Please don’t stop looking now just because of an unfair process. Believe me…the right job does come if you just keep going. Use the energy from your frustration to go get TWO new interviews! In the end…you’ll be the winner.
But it does take time. Remember what I always say…it’s like dog years. Two weeks to you is like two days to them. And yes…I know it’s ruff!
Good luck. The right job will come your way. I can feel it!
Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie Ann
I’m truly fed up. I sent my first job application last April so its not like a knee jerk reaction. It’s a dire time in the economy and the worst time of year to apply for jobs. So I’ve decided to put my feet up until the New Year. If I hear a response from either job you will hear the fanfare
Meanwhile I enjoyed your tip about channeling the frustration into attaining new interviews.. that really works! Those tricky emotions can be really constructive. I will bottle it until Jan and sock it to em then with renewed vigour!
Cheers & Thanks !!
p.s. I feel like you are the official recruitment sage, I feel like I’m consulting The Oracle when I post here..hehe, its great!
LOL! Thanks Bobby. No sage I.
It’s just I’ve been through sooooo many jobs and interviews (from both sides) that I have a lot of personal experience to draw on. And believe me…I made most of the mistakes (still do sometimes) that I try to help people avoid!!
I think waiting until after New Year’s to start up again full tilt boogie is a great plan! And you never know what happens while you’ve decided to just give it a rest.
Good luck, Bobby. Fingers, legs and eyes crossed for you. Can’t wait to hear what happens. I think you’re terrific!
Ronnie Ann
hey Ronnie Ann !
Well I ignored my own words and have kept up the job search. The first interview with the job I really want and still feel good about have replied and told me it the next interview stage prob wont happen until the new year so they will be in touch.
I went for another interview this week which was really grueling group stuff. I felt I did as well as could be expected, but weirdly the recruiter told me after having gone through all that the position was ‘on hold’ and she would keep my details, be in touch with any further details, but I wouldn’t have to go through that again. Unless I haven’t heard anything within 6 months and I’d have to start all over??? I am utterly confused, what the heck does that mean. I took it as a polite “no, but we’ll tell you we’ll keep you on file to keep you sweet” = rejection.
Any clue here?
cheers
Bobby
Hi Bobby!
First let me say congratulations on good news from the company you really want and also for pushing ahead anyway. This is a time when many job hunters back off, so odds for those who do decide to try may be just a little better. BTW…clearly, you are GREAT at getting interviews no matter what.
I don’t really have any definite answers for you. With all the uncertainty that’s happening in the world-wide economy, you can’t really rely on standard behavior to interpret things nowadays. But my guess would be the people at the second job possibility are telling the recruiter the truth and not just giving you the brush-off.
Sometimes when a company is told a hiring freeze is coming, they go ahead and start to interview anyway trying to beat the freeze; but, if the freeze hits, they also know a thaw can come at any time and like to be prepared to jump on the opportunity by having people ready to go. While that doesn’t help you much now, depending on how things workout with the other job, it might bring a welcome surprise for you at any time. So nothing is lost and you’ve opened yourself up to one more possibility. S’all good!
The best advice I can give you is to prepare yourself for things to move slowly all around, but be ready to jump into action when you get the call. And don’t stop looking. Momentum without getting caught up in expectations helps keep you sane and for some reason, as I’ve found in my own life, it attracts more opportunity.
Good luck, Bobby. Please keep us posted. Meanwhile…
Happy Holidays!
Ronnie Ann
Hi Ronnie Ann,
Thanks for your reply!
I thought I’d update you, although I realise now you maybe winding down for the festivities enjoy
The above mentioned that had the hold actually called back and offered a different position and invited me to complete the interview process
) It’s not my ideal job, salary not great, but I think I must take it (a necessity since my hub just got made redundant this month 
). Since there is a probation period, I figured if my dream job which is on delay eventually offers a second interview, I wont be letting anyone down if I take it within the four months.
Is this what other people do I wonder? Would you suggest I inform the other recruiter I’ve had an offer?
Basically I can’t afford to gamble this current offer as times are *cough cough* desperate now and I need to work! I cant risk not getting the dream job if I turn this one down, thus ending up with zero.
Aside, it has given me a much needed moral boost, and you’re right I’ve surprised myself getting interviews – makes me wonder if there wasnt so much pressure what truly amazing job I could hold off for ? Reality bites.
Again, I have gained a great deal talking to you Ronnie Ann – keep up the great work. I hope you get a lot from it too!!
happy hols
I had a fantastic face-to-face interview after an initial phone screening. Because the position is high-level, I was told by the individual interviwing me that she would be in touch by the end of the week (last week) or this week, once she spoke to the CEO. Yesterday I sent a letter expressing my continued interest in the job but received no response. I am considering placing a phone call tomorrow to ask for a status update so that I can continue to carry out my job search. The feeling of the interview, by the way, was that I was the best candidate seen thus far. Do you suppose, given these circumstance, the lack of response is negative?
Also, in checking the company website, the job posting has been taken down.
Hi Lex!
Although I can’t know for sure of course (my crystal ball is in the shop), nothing you’ve told me leads me to believe you’re out of the running. In fact, there appear to be some really good signs. Sometimes it just takes longer than expected to get time with a top exec and to nail down things like an offer amount.
I’d wait a day or two longer and then, if you haven’t heard, call. But no downside to calling tomorrow if you can’t stand it any more!
Good luck, Lex! Please let us know. Fingers crossed for you.
Ronnie Ann
I’ve recently had an interview for a perfect job which sounds great and got invited back for a second interview. The only problem now is that the Operations Director has to sit in on the second interview but he seems very busy and has had to cancel the interview today due to an audit he has been asked to carry out! Its been three weeks since my first interview and I can’t stand the wait especially since christmas is coming up! I’e been told by the recruitment agency i’ve gone through that the interview should be before christmas but i’m not very confident about that as there’s only 1 full wek left. I know that me and another applicant have got through to the final stage of interviews. What do you suggest I can do to cope with the waiting? Any ideas would be appreciated!!!
Hi Ben!
My heart goes out to you. I know how those last days/weeks feel. If it helps to know, this is totally normal. Operations folks schedules (I’ve been one) can get jam-packed – especially around the holidays. Holidays slow everything down – even by a few weeks or more. Ouch. I know. Hopefully they will get it all in before Christmas.
In the meantime, maybe this will help a little:
12 Ways to Stay Sane After a Job Interview
And this:
I Got the Post-Interview Temporary OCD Blues
Please let us know how it goes. I wish you all the best luck. Hope to hear some good news soon!
Thanks for the advice Ronnie Ann, those articles have really helped. It also helps to see that other people are in exactly the same situation. The timeline from submitting my CV on November 10th and getting an interview on November 13th all happened so fast I just assumed that the second interview would be just as quick! Unfortunately I now realise that the decision makers are very busy people with hectic schedules! Apparently the person who interviewed me is eager to fill the position so fingers crossed!
Oh I’m from the UK by the way, thats why my post is so early in the morning!
Aha! Thanks for explaining, Ben. I was wondering, but since I get comments from all over the world, I’ve learned to just accept whatever time I see.
It’s understandable why you were surprised by the “hurry up and wait” process. Yes…it is unfortunately geared toward their time. I hope to hear some good news from you no matter when it is. But of course, for your sake I do hope it’s sooner rather than later.
Best of luck! And please keep us posted.
~ Ronnie Ann
Spoke to the agency again today and they say the audit that caused the delay in my interview has now finished so my interview should be soon!
According to the person I spoke to i’m the only person applying for this particular role and the fact that i’ve been invited back for a second interview means that I have been ‘rubber stamped’ for the role by the manager and just need to be seen by the operations director too! Here’s hoping!!
Oh Ben…I hope to hear good news soon! So nice that the person explained this to you. Helps me feel at least a little better about how candidates are being treated.
In the meantime, if anyone is interested, here’s more on what folks are going through:
5 Ways Interviewers Make Job Seekers REALLY Angry
Please let us know when it’s a done deal! I’m saving up a giant wuhoo!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Well, the audit that delayed my second interview is all finished but the operations director is now on holiday until January 15th!! When will this madness end? Even more waiting now!! I have been told another manager may be able to step in for the operations director but I don’t have much faith in that! May as well relax for christmas now and pursue it in the new year!
Oh Ben! Well…you certainly are becoming a pro at this waiting thing. If only it were a skill you could highlight on a resume.
We eagerly await good news. Fingers, legs and eyes crossed!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi its me again and i’m still waiting!
The Operations Director got back on the 18th and the original manager who interviewed me has asked if i’m still interested in the role to which I replied a definite yes!
I have been told I should get a date for my 2nd interview on Tuesday 26th after the manager has met with the director. Hopefully its all coming together now and I shouldn’t have to wait too much longer. The agency said my chances are still as strong as before so i’m still keeping everything crossed!!
Finally, my interview date is next Wednesday the 3rd Feb! Let’s hope it’s not cancelled again, I couldn’t take any more waiting!!
Hi Ben!
Thanks for letting us know. Fingers and all else crossed that all will go as planned. You certainly have shown all of us that waiting can pay off…hopefully with an offer!
Best of luck, Ben. I am so rooting for you!! (I’m sure we all are.)
~ Ronnie Ann
Well i’ve just come back from the interview and all went well I think. The Operations Director did most of the talking however and talked about the good and challenging elements of the job. Just waiting to hear back now, he said about one or two days.
Oh Ben! This is very very cool news. Wish I had more things to cross!
Best of luck, Ben. Gee…I feel like I’m waiting with you. Hard not to get caught up in the excitement. PLEASE let us know!!!
~ Ronnie Ann
Unfortunately it was a no but I’m gonna use the anger I’m feeling towards the company to power my search for a better job. To string me along for nearly 3 months is just not on but i guess it’s their loss at the end of the day! Thanks for all your support, it was much appreciated and kept me sane xx
Awwww Ben! I’m so sorry. Wish I could give you a hug. Are cyber-hugs allowed?
Smart plan. Absolutely acknowledge the anger – any of us would feel it – and then channel it to work for you.
Most companies really do try their best and only string along the good ones because they don’t want to lose them. While that seems unfair, it’s also a compliment of sorts – I guess. That’s why it always pays to keep the search at full force until you have the final offer in your hands.
Thanks for letting us know. I wish you all the luck finding the RIGHT job, Ben! Please feel free to keep coming back her if it helps with that sanity thing.
~ Ronnie Ann
Thanks Ronnie Ann, and cyber hugs are certainly allowed!! I’ll let you know how the next chapter goes…
I look forward to it, {{Ben}}.
~ R
Hi Ronnie Ann
I’m worried about the absence I had in my old job and how this will affect my search for a new job. I had a considerable amount of time off in 2009 due to stress and anxiety caused by a relationship breakdown and having to sell our house and split up our belongings etc. I had in total six weeks off over a 12 month period.
I regret taking the time off but felt it was necessary taking into account the way I was feeling at the time. Do you think this will affect my chances for a new career?
Ps the 6 weeks wasn’t taken in one go!
Hi again, Ben!
First, let me say how sorry I am to read about this. Hope you’re doing much better now.
Many of us have things happen that require time away. Luckily yours was not all at once – that helps since you don’t need to account for it on a resume. Unless the new employer specifically asks you or your references, there’s no need for this to even be an issue. (Unless there’s more I need to understand.) I sure wouldn’t bring it up unless pressed! Hopefully you have enough solid references that they will help you sidestep this issue which shouldn’t be an issue at all in my book.
But if you are asked…be direct and sincere with them. Just generally explain as much as you’re comfortable with (without giving details), and then as quickly as possible direct the conversation to how you minimized impact on your job and why now is different. Real and sincere is best – but keep it short and positive. If they have no room for such stuff, you’d hate working there anyway.
All the best, Ben!
~ Ronnie Ann