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.
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