Some of you may recognize this from a previous longer post. Since I get so many e-mails and comments from people suffering through the agony of waiting waiting and then waiting some more after their job interviews, I thought it was worth posting again on its own.
Hope it helps!
Things to Do While Waiting to Hear Back After a Job Interview
- Keep looking for jobs! No matter how great this one job is, it helps to keep the energy aimed at finding work you really want. Sometimes an even better job comes along during this time.
- At the most basic level, try daily breathing exercises. A good one suggested by Dr. Andrew Weil is to breathe in to a count of 4, hold for a count of 7, and breathe out for a count of 8. I do it and it helps.
- Take up a new hobby – something you’ve always wanted to try. Yoga. Meditation. Tai chi. Tae kwon do. Knitting. Painting. Photography. Guitar. Acting. Whatever piques your interest or moves your spirit.
- Rent LOTS of movies and re-direct your obsessive behavior in that direction. Not sure a therapist would suggest that, but I’m just trying to get you through the interview process.
(To keep costs down, you can always join NetFlix for a month or two and then stop.) - Go to the library or local bookstore and find a bunch of books you’ve been meaning to read. Learn something new (that may be relevant to the job you want). This is the time.
- Volunteer somewhere. Turn your energy into something that helps others.
- Enlist the help of your friends and loved ones and make sure you get them to do things with you that keep your mind occupied.
- Also try putting your extra energy into doing extra things for people you care about. Hard to stay too obsessed about the interview when you’re obsessing about…I mean doing something wonderful for a loved one.
- Write about your thoughts and feelings. And let your thoughts fly. Maybe you can write a short story about a character going through what you’re going through. Maybe even give the protagonist super-powers to break through barriers and make things happen.
Or you can even turn your story into a great country or blues song! “I’m waiting too long. They done me wrong.” - Exercise. Even if it’s only walking 10-20 minutes a day. Movement is good for helping get you out of the obsessive thoughts. Use the time to think about something you like to do or someone you love or a place you would like to visit. (No…not the office where you interviewed. Sheesh.)
- Singing while exercising or even on its own helps you redirect your thoughts. For me…it’s show tunes or good ole rock ‘n roll.
- If all else fails, I use bad TV to get lost in. Oh sure…it’s not the optimal prescription for mental health, but we’re just talking about making it through the interview process!
Good luck! Please let us know what happens and how you get through the awful wait. 
Ronnie Ann
Related Work Coach Cafe posts
After the Job Interview: Why Haven’t They Called Me Yet?
Stuck in the Waiting Game After 2nd Interview
I Got the Post Interview Temporary OCD Blues (original article)
Hi Ronnie Ann,
This blog is a godsend for me, as I have recently started to go insane waiting for the result of an interview! I have just been notified that my position will be eliminated, and have been given 3 months to find a new role. Thankfully, I have a strong network and was able to land an interview a few days after I got the bad news.
I started the interview process for a great position about two weeks ago. In the first interview, I met with several directors and managers, as well as potential co-workers. Everything went very well and afterwards, the Hiring Manger said they were just starting the process and would be contacting me soon. About an hour and a half later, I was called to see when I would be available for a second interview. This round would be with some executive directors as well as other groups who I would be interacting with.
The second interview was a panel style with three Interviewers at a time, and it went just as well (if not better) than the first. At the end of the interview, I met again with the Hiring Manager, who asked some follow up questions. I let him know that I was very interested in role and asked for a time frame of a decision.
The Hiring Manger said they are still looking passively through some resumes, but asked if I had any other interviews scheduled. I told him “yes, but these roles are not very high on my list, and the current role is the one I really want” (which was indeed the truth). The manager then said that they will be on PTO for the rest of the week and I should hear something by early next week. I was told there would most likely be a 3rd round with the President, and if selected, this would be confirmation that they are going to select me.
One of the interviewers for the second round was an HR Director who gave me her card and asked me to contact her if I had any questions. After I sent thank you letters to all of the interviewers, I contacted the HR Director and asked for some general feedback. After 3 days, I have yet to receive a response from the HR director.
The headhunter who helped me get this role said the Hiring Manager was very evasive about whether or not they had anyone else in mind. The headhunter also let me know that the company has been trying to fill this role for 6 months, but have had no luck because they are looking for a very specific background (which I fit very well). The lack of response is killing me, and the wait over the weekend is going to torture. I have nothing but a positive experience during the interviews and I think I hit specific traits they were looking for, but I really want this role and I can’t stop obsessing about my performance!
P.S – During the interview, I let them know that my current availability was due to impending downsizing. Was that a smart move?
Thanks and great blog!!
Thanks for the kind words, Steve. Glad we can be of help during such a tough period. Nice reminder for everyone about how important it is to keep your network strong even when you aren’t looking. Siunds liek your eally impressed them.
Hope the weekend wasn’t too horrible. You really had no choice but to wait and do your best to stay sane.
I hope by now you’ve heard something. Unfortunately, when a company looks this long to find the right person, their sense of time and yours are very different. All you can do is wait and meanwhile look for another position as if you didn’t have this possibility.
They may have one or two other people in mind and also it takes time to get a president into a room to discuss all this. They usually want all their facts gathered before doing that. So again, more time.
All you can do is wait and check in occasionally – without stalking of course. And, assuming they asked why you’re looking, you were fine telling them about the downsizing. It’s the truth and it would come put anyway.
I hope you hear some good news soon. Good luck. Meanwhile, please keep looking!
Thank you so much for this! I only had my interview this morning and I’m already turning into a nervous wreck. My family is pretty sick of me jumping every time the phone rings, checking my email every 3 minutes and going over the entire interview out loud repetitively. I was given a time frame of 72 hours, well it’s been 10 and I can’t think about anything else. I will be following your advice immediately by going for a run and renting some trashy films! Thanks
My pleasure, Hanna. You sound great…and exceptionally self-aware. Trashy films are terrific choice for times like this. Fingers crossed for you. Good luck!
Hi Ronnie,
Great to read this blog!!!
Allow me to join the gang.
I got a call from the employer and had a very brief interview over the phone about my experience. Later they sent me an assignment and I did a good job. I was called for an interview with the manager.
I went for an interview for this really nice job i wanted on November 14 (Monday). The interview was with the Manager and it went really well. I showed him samples of my work and he made it clear to me that he would like to have me in the team. He asked me to wait for an hour so that the VP could also interview me. That also went well and the VP told me the CEO would speak to me over the phone and after that their HR team would get in touch with me.
Both the manager and the VP asked me if I would be able to join ASAP and I said yes. They both gave me details about what I would be expected to do after joining and the work atmosphere and all that.
On November 18 (Friday) I called the Manager to know about the status. He was very friendly and told me I’d cleared the interview round with VP. He told me that the CEO was traveling abroad and hence the delay. He also told me that the chances of CEO rejecting me after VP approval was very rare and that I can be prepared to join the company soon.
I know that it’s still a little early to expect a response as the CEO might be caught up with plenty of other work, but I can’t help feeling frustrated and sit in front of the computer twiddling my thumbs.
One important thing: During the interview, they informed me that they are taking me for a post different from what they’d initially advertised for. In this role i was expected to do multi-tasking for a few months until they find more people to join the team. Is it possible that it is taking time for them to decide a profile/designation suitable for me?
Another thing – The manager sent me another assignment on November 21 (Monday) to test my skills and I got to interact with another person in the organization. After I completed it, he praised me for the quick and effective response.
One other thing – the place where I got interviewed is located in one place, the CEO and the HR team is in another State. So, I’m assuming it’ll take time for things to work out.
Do you think I will get this job???
In the meantime I’m composing a list of job interviews I’ve attended in the past and the interesting incidents associated with it to pass time. It’s so terrible waiting to hear from the Employer
Thanks so much for taking time to read through this!
Oh and the job post has been removed after the interview. Does it tell something?
Will greatly appreciate your thoughts on this!!!!! Please!
Hi Rama!
First…you have me smiling because of how you found a way to fill the time – and stay sane. Don’t forget to try some of the other ways listed above if this stops working.
Also, I know it’s hard…but keep looking for another place to apply anyway. It passes the time and, just in case the unthinkable happens, you are already moving forward.
That said…all these signs look very good for you. I can’t know for sure, of course. Anything can still get in the way. But the way they selected you for a different position and have stayed closely in touch all are very hopeful. And yes…all the reason you list makes sense. Depending on the CEO’s schedule, this could indeed take more time than you’d wish…maybe weeks. So just be patient. And meanwhile…keep yourself busy. Perhaps volunteer or write a loong novel.
Best of luck!
Thank you so much, Ronnie. Just sharing it here has made me feel much better!
And you’ve indeed set me thinking… Maybe I should write a novel (or a story at the very least) about a character with super powers looking for a job! (giggles) Yes that’s what I’m going to do and I’ll mail it to you if it comes out fine!!!
I love it, Rama! What a great idea. I’d love to see it one day.
In the space of waiting, new worlds can be created.
Hi Ronnie,
I got the job offer today. Yay!
Will be joining on Monday – Dec 5th.
I sent a mail to the HR person on Friday inquiring about the status, an she got back to me on Monday after talking to the VP an sent me the offer letter today.
My rocket winneth over!
Thank you for your encouraging words during the frustrating waiting period!
This is great news! Wuhoo!! I’m so happy for you, Rama. I wish you much success!
Please please edit your article and put “Keep looking for jobs” at the top! Many of MY students would read a couple and put your article down. Stopping and waiting for one job result is very common and we need to move people along; they need to continue their persistence in their job search.
Very good point, Summer! Done.
Thank you!
Susan
Interviewer said he wanted me. Had personality test send by HR and it’s been one day since I completed it. How long before reply? I emailed a thank you for interview. Should I also send a card?
Job is very low pay/ part time and no benies, still, it’s where I want to be and want to work my way up. Also, why so much math on those personality tests?
thank you much-
I had a horrid time so far regarding the current position that I am going for. I applied on the 2nd January 2012, and knew that I would have to wait a while as it did not close until the 1st Feb 2012. On the 9th Feb I received an email saying thank you for your time and interest in the role however, you have been unsuccessful this time. we will keep your details on file. Bummer, so I kept looking for other work. On the 1st March 2012 a Manchester number called me and normally if I don’t know the number I wont answer with the exception of if i am waiting for a call, but I thought it could have been from my little sister as she was on a shopping trip in Manchester that day. I answered and it was the company that I had applied for offering me an interview.
It was scheduled for the 9th March 2012, I attended and all seemed to go well, I was shown where I would be working, met the guy I would be replacing and spent 10 minutes with him while he showed me how the systems work and informed me that he would be training me, expect it to take around 6 months before I completely understand the systems. He was impressed with my back ground of the rail industry (this position is for within the rail industry too). The panel interview seemed to go well, and after it was completed they answered my questions and apologised for the email that I had received, it was a HR error. Out of 3872 people I was one of only 8 selected for interview. He walked with me back to the reception area and we chatted briefly on the way.
They said that I would find out the result today, and to not worry about anything as the interview went really well.
I would be biting my nails if I didnt love them so much. Just the worst part now, waiting for that phone call to see if I was successful or not. This has definitely been the worst part for me, and it is only 0737 on the morning that they said they will call.
I will update later today as long as I get that call, fingers crossed for me please!
Hang in there, Laura! It sounds like the waiting will be over soon!
But, do NOT be surprised (or terrified) if you don’t hear from them today. You may not hear until tomorrow or Friday, depending on how well things go for them internally today – all having NOTHING at all to do with you. Hang in there! And do not assume that no news is bad news. Contact them Friday if you don’t hear from them today.
Keeping my fingers crossed for you!
Good luck!
Susan
Thank you Susan,
I have not heard from them as of yet today, so seems like I will not get the answer I have been waiting for (or not) today.
If I hear nothing tomorrow I will contact them on Friday afternoon and ask for a status update. I keep checking their web site for a status update, but I think that is just wishful thinking as I am sure they will speak to me before posting it on my online account with them.
Still keeping my fingers crossed.
My fingers are crossed, too.
Good luck!
Susan
Hi there,
I applied for a position on January 7th and didn’t hear anything till Feb end where I got a call from HR stating that they would like to schedule an interview and that they would provide time and other details via email. Well I received that email March 2 and the interview was March 8th. During the interview I met the entire team and I was really optimistic about how the interview went and really felt that I would be a good fit. I was told by HR at that time that I would hear back regarding decision by the end of the next week. When I didn’t hear back I called HR and left a vm on the following Monday and HR emailed me back promptly stating that no decision had been made but to expect a decision by end of that week. Well, again I didn’t hear back at the end of the week and I decided to leave a vm for HR and again I got a similar email apologizing but no decision had been made but to expect a decision by the end of the week again. This last email from HR was dated March 26. I sent HR an email thanking them for keeping in the loop. I have not followed up after that email even though I was expecting them to tell me something at the very least by the end of that week. It been 2 weeks now since that last email from HR and more than a month since I interviewed. Does this mean that I don’t have the job and should get the “message”? I keep getting advice that perhaps I should follow up with the hiring manager who is the VP. But I don’t want to seem too aggressive or desperate. Please advice!
Hi TTango,
Never expect the worst to happen. I think that the only “message” being delivered is that they don’t keep to their deadlines very well. Looking back to January 7 (!), these people have a proven track record of taking quite a bit of time to move to the next step. So my guess is that is what is continuing to happen – I wouldn’t expect any deadlines to be met by this employer.
Contact the HR person again. After you’ve given your name, remind the person of the job you interviewed for and when and who interviewed you. Then ask the status of the job and what the next steps are. When they tell you they’ll have an answer “next week,” don’t laugh. Just say thank you, and remember to give them more time than that.
Definitely keep pursuing this – IF you really want to work for this organization.
God luck!
Susan
Hey,
I was so relieved to see a modern post time above
I recently had an interview, not for a job, but for a three week exchange programme. I panicked so much before and I kept going over ideal answers and so on. I had previously filled out a (long) application form, and they had some questions (why are you the most suitable candidate, what motivates you). I got short listed into the final 54 candidates out of about 500, and they called us for interviews. Me, panicky as usual got flustered and literally began to breathe faster for a few days haha..
When I reached the interview room, they informed me that they had heard about me. My friend, who is also a part of the competition, had his interview the previous day in the morning, and Mine was one of the last in the whole program. So I was shocked, and then they continued that they were interested in getting to know me and so on. They stated that I had received a full score in my application form, and they asked me a few questions. Down to the end, they asked questions like “you’re at 95%. What can you tell is that u didnt list in your form or tell us that would take you to 150%” I think I answered eloquently and so on, stating my achievements elsewhere, and my parents (yes I’m a teen) chimed in and stated how I’m self motivated and so on.
The weirdest thing though was that afterwards they were asking me what I eat, and to make sure and make a list of things that I don’t eat for them. At that point my eyes narrowed a bit, and then the interviewer said “oh if you get through”
To be honest, the interview was really free and informal and they seemed extremely pleased..
What’s bothering me is that I think they were like that for everyone.. Idk, probably just me, but I’m just thinking that for a youth program, that’s how an interviewer would have to be..? I really want this, and the thing is, only 13 of the 50 will be selected..*panic mode*
Anyway, thanks for listening
it really helped typing it out here 
thanks much ^.^
Hi Duane,
Glad to hear that WorkCoachCafe.com has helped you!
It’s hard to tell if they were “like that for everyone,” or not. Ask your friend who was interviewed earlier how his interview went. It does sound promising.
If there is someway you could follow up, I would try to do that – send an email about how nice it was to meet with them and talk with them to learn more about this wonderful opportunity. Be sure to mention when you were interviewed and who interviewed you (by name, hopefully).
Good luck!
Susan
OMG, I just discovered work coach cafe last week and I’ve been out of job for the last 6 months already. However, I’ve done most of the things that is on that list except exercise and renting tons of movies. I tried to keep myself busy but is so hard, I’m glad that this site is so comforting and reading what people are going through the same thing I am, it feels so good. I am not saying that been out of job is good but knowing that you are not by yourself is always good.
Thanks work coach cafe, I’ll be lurking around this site for a while
LN,
Glad you are finding the site to be helpful. To meet locals who are going through the process, you may want to check out this directory of local job clubs:
http://www.job-hunt.org/job-search-networking/job-search-networking.shtml
Meetup.com also has many interest groups and clubs you can join to meet others. You may want to check that out as well.
Good luck,
Chandlee
My experience is very similar to the other posts here.
I have had 2 interviews and an email questionnaire to complete. All went very well. Everyone I interviewed with was very pleasant and gave me feedback such as “excellent” ” you are a good listener” ex….I feel very good about all the interviews I have had so far. I also feel that I am fully qualified. The second interview was on 6/7, on 6/12 I emailed the HR Director to get a status update. He told me that management would be making a final decision this Friday 6/15. Does that mean I’ll be called back for a 3rd interview or made an offer or declined? I looked at the company website yesterday and the job posting has been pulled down. I started to panic. I am now wondering since it’s 6/14 and Thursday do I sit patiently and wait or do I call the HR Director and tell him I see the posting was pulled down and has their been any progress on a decision?
Amanda,
Do not call the HR Director. You’ve already received a status update on where they are with the position — and told that the decision has not been made yet — and when it will be made. This is more information on a process than 90% of candidates ever get.
The job is likely not still listed as they have completed their interviewing — and you know that you are one of the finalists for the job.
Unfortunately, all you can do at this stage is to wait to hear if you were selected. Don’t expect to hear back Friday for certain — and give it a few days if you don’t. Often references are checked AFTER a hiring recommendation as been made, and there’s still paperwork to go through.
Good luck with all of this.
Best,
Chandlee
Thanks Chandlee. Very good advice. Here it is Friday at noon ( EST) and I am still itching to hear something. If I don’t hear anything today I thought I would call the HR Director on Monday this way maybe he will give me more details over the phone then he would by email.
Amanda,
I don’t recommend calling the HR Director on Monday. Of all people in the company, they have the most strict guidelines on what they can and can’t say to applicants. I know the timing is hard, but I recommend being patient above all else. And the best way I know to be patient is to start (as hard as it may be) looking at — and applying to other jobs — that interest you. It’s always good to have more than one possibility on the plate.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee,
So I did not totally listen to your advice….the anticipation was killing me so I called the HR director this past Friday. He said a decision has still not been made and that he hopes to have more information for me by this Monday or Tuesday. It’s now Wednesday morning and I have not heard anything.
I did speak to a friend over the weekend who works for an employment agency and she said this is typical of candidates in the final running and that sometimes it can go on for 3 weeks before you are called back for a 3rd interview or made an offer.
I have two questions for you;
1. Should I check in with the HR Director weekly for a status update or just leave it alone, he’ll get back to me on his own accord? Does checking in make me look to anxious or does it show good follow up?
2. If I am called back for a 3rd interview, which will most likely be with the President of the Company and the HR Manager, what type of dress is appropriate? I have read that the second interview is typically more dress down than the first.
Hi Amanda,
In answer to your questions.
1. Leave it alone. You’ve expressed your continued interest. I would not follow up for at least another two weeks.
2. Never dress down for a 2nd or 3rd interview unless they tell you to. Especially if the interview is with a senior officer of the company.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee,
I received a very disappointing email this past Friday that another candidate was offer the position. I am very disappointed. I really thought I would fit in well given my experience, education and with the culture.
What is the best way to ask for feedback to understand why I was not offered the position?
Amanda,
This happens sometimes, and it is always very disappointing — but remember that often finding a job is a process. Because the competition for many positions can be stiff. If you made it to the final rounds, that says to me that they thought you were qualified — and they liked you.
I recommend that you follow up with a thank you note — saying “thanks for interviewing me for this position. While I am disappointed that I was not offered the job, I would welcome the opportunity to interview with you for the job in the future and would appreciate any constructive feedback on how I could further strengthen my application in the future.” Don’t be afraid to let them know how much you enjoyed the culture and the environment.
I speak from experience that this approach can work: I used it myself years ago with a relatively entry-level job. They hired someone with 8 years of experience; and a year later they interviewed me again — and I was hired.
Good luck and keep up your search in the interim. Don’t just apply for jobs, let other people know what you are looking for.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Hey,
Today I found your website and I spent one and half hours now reading the posts. I must say it is a great site and I want to share my interview with you and ask for your advise.
Three weeks ago a previous colleague of mine told me that they have a position opening in their department. I am very interested in it, then I sent my CV to him. Later their group invited me for an interview. The whole interview went well. Several days later, they discussed title and salary etc details with me and said they wanted me and were submitting some paperwork to HR, not sure if HR will need to post the position.
My questions are:
for this kind of (not posted) position, Is this the process they have to go through?
Also, in order to make plans , I really need to know how long is this process (assuming they are not meant to find more candidates). Is it a good idea for me to directly ask my status HR people?
Thank you very much!
H
Hi Henry,
Most companies have to follow a process in order to hire — and to show that they conducted a search for the position. Unfortunately, following the process can take quite a long time. This is typically nothing you can control.
I don’t think it’s a good idea to contact HR people regarding your status — it’s often annoying for them when their colleagues say, “I want you to hire so-and-so for this unposted job.” And there are too many chances for miscommunication.
What I would do is to follow up with your previous colleague, and find out what he may need from you in order for you to be considered a formal applicant for the job. Ask if it would help for you to submit a cover letter or statement of interest, fill out a formal job application, etc. Let your colleague know you remain very interested, and — if need be — you are happy to apply for the job in the usual way.
Bottom line: You want to make it as easy for everyone in the company to hire you.
Good luck,
Chandlee
Hi Chandlee,
Thanks so much for your advice! I’ll follow your suggestions and let you know what happen.
Henry
I hold off myself not contacting HR. Yesterday I received an email sending from director’s secretory saying a letter of offer is being prepared to send to me. So you are right: be patient is important. Thanks for your help!
H
Henry,
That’s fantastic news…Keep us posted, and good luck! Thanks for letting us know the outcome!
Chandlee
Last week I interviewed with a company I had worked at for 5 years but left 6 years ago on good terms dur to relocation. One of the two interviewers remembered me and has a high opinion of my work; the other interviewer I did not know. The interview went well and I was told they were recommending me to the director. They said the director would make the final decision. To say I’m going crazy waiting for the call is putting it mildly. I have tried several of your tips and they are helping me keep my mind off the job. They said I should get a call this week so I plan to call on Thursday afternoon as I know during summer people often work shorter hours on Friday. Oh and I did send thank you notes to my interviewers. Thanks for letting me get this off my mind.
Lucy,
Sounds like you are doing all the right thing. Personally, I’d hold off calling until next week if you haven’t heard from anything. I know it’s hard, but I think giving the employer space is also not a bad idea. Hiring is complicated as there’s typically lots of paperwork involved. Good luck!
All the Best,
Chandlee
Chandlee-
Thanks for your reply. I got a job offer this morning from my 2nd choice,and don’t want to hold them off too long. Now what should I do?! I know I’m lucky, but would prefer the job I interviewed for at my previous company. Any advice would be appreciated.
Lucy
Hi Lucy,
Let the first company know that you have another offer, but that your first preference is to return to your previous work environment. Advise them of when you need to let Company #2 know, and say that “while you don’t expect the news of the offer will expedite any decision making process since there are other candidates involved,” you will need to render your decision on whether to take the other offer by {insert date}. This should speed it along in general.
Let us know how it turns out.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Chandlee-I love how you worded it. That’s just what I’ll say when I call. One more question: should I call the director who will be making the decision but did not interview me, her secretary who I spoke with on the phone and in person before and after the interview( she could hear the whole interview and afterwards said it went very well) or should I call one of the interviewers? I’m hoping it’s good news when I call! Fingers crossed.
Hi Chandlee-
Well, I held out calling until this morning. I spoke to one of the interviewers and told her I had another job offer and was wondering if a decision had been made on the position. She was so happy I called as she was having trouble getting hold of my references. She asked me to contact them and ask them to call her. I did that and within a few hours I had a job offer at the company of my first choice. Tomorrow I need to call my 2nd choice and decline their offer.
Thanks so much for your advice. I love this website!
Lucy
Lucy,
How fabulous! That’s great news, and please keep us posted.
All the Best,
Chandlee
Hello Chandlee,
Some updates on my interview.
I went to on-site interview and now I am going through additional Skype calls.
My references told me yesterday that the company has also been contacting them and setting up dates for communication. But today there was a sudden emergency (one of my references’ family member passed away and he told me that he will be unable to get into contact with the HR in the next few days).
Since I provided my reference list (3 people) along with my resume and they did not ask me for doing that, is there a way for me to remedy this issue?
Thank you!
Best,
Nagisa
Nagisa,
Secure an alternate reference and send it to the company as follow-up information. Advise them of the situation your reference is having and offer to find a replacement.
Good luck,
Chandlee