FOLLOWING-UP JOB INTERVIEWSBased on "Pocket Hiring Guide on How To Hire the Right Person" by Denis L. Cauvier | | | 
"It's been two weeks. I've gone through several interviews, negotiated my terms, finished the exams, and answered all the questions. But the company still hasn't called. What should I do, short of waiting nervously by the phone?"
Stop fretting and start some serious thinking. There are many good reasons why there's no concrete offer in the horizon. And there are some productive measures that you can do while waiting.
1) LOOK BACK. Be totally honest with yourself. Did you make a good impression on the interviewer. Were you able to focus on common objectives? Did he ask you to elaborate on your skills? Was he in a hurry to get you on board? How did he end the meeting? A warm handshake and a smile MAY mean that you're in the running; if he shows a cold face and a curt tone, don't hold your breath.
2) FACTOR THE TIME ELEMENT. It takes two weeks to a month for HRD to screen all candidates. IF you think you've made a good impression, call after three weeks. But if you see the job posted again in the classifieds after that time, chances are the company didn't find anyone suitable in your batch and is looking again.
3) WHAT IF THE INTERVIEWER ASKED ME TO CALL HIM AFTER A WEEK OR TWO? Then do it. That means he is considering you for the post. A punctual call is an act of courtesy that also shows him you're serious about the job.
4) WHAT IF THE INTERVIEWER TELLS ME THAT THE SELECTION PROCESS ISN'T OVER? Politely ask him IF and WHEN you can follow-up again. Take your cue from there. If he gives you another two weeks, then do so. If he says "We'll just call you," then leave it at that. If the company really wants to hire you, it wouldn't leave you hanging for long. But whatever happens, do not betray your irritation or nervousness; that will only give you bad marks.
5) GET INSIDE INFO IF YOU CAN. This will give you an idea if you are in the running, especially if the interviewer is vague. If you have a friend working INSIDE the company, then politely inquire about your chances. He just might have access to HR. Or if he does not, he still would know the company's hiring standards and policies. You can use these to gauge where you stand. (For example: the company prioritizes applicants with a marketing background, and you don't have one.)
6) GET A LIFE. Since waiting can be more torturous than rejection, don't do it. Fill up your schedule. Send other applications to other companies. Enroll in courses that can boost your market value. Make yourself so busy that, by the time the company calls, an acceptance is just icing on the cake---and a rejection doesn't matter. |
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