Have you ever been through a job interview that you thought went well, but then you didn’t hear anything back? Over a month has gone by and there is still complete silence on the side of the hiring manager? Here are three ways you can approach this situation:
1. Follow up.
You took the time to prepare for the interview, so you deserve to know the results of the hiring process regardless of whether the results are positive. An email or phone call to follow up will hopefully pull the news out of the hiring manager. Even if the hiring manager provided a time they would provide an answer and has not, it is still important to follow up. Make sure to have a respectful, professional tone in your follow up. After all, if the results equal good news, you wouldn’t want the hiring manager to change their mind based on your impatience or disapproving tone.
2. Don’t take it personally.
There are several factors that could play into why you haven’t received a response. The company could be afraid of the legal issues that may result from them revealing the exact reason why you were not the chosen candidate. Perhaps they are still interviewing and are waiting to see how that process plays out. Another reason could be that the position has been eliminated or put on hold. The company could be going through reorganization and isn’t willing to disclose that fact. Or they could be in the process of acquiring a new company, which is why their hiring process could be put on hold. Lastly, the hiring manager could be busy with other tasks that they simply have not had time to review applications. Regardless, there is the right job out there for you! Don’t lose hope.
3. Plan for the future.
It is not the end of the world. You will come across better opportunities in the future. During your next interview, establish a date in which you can plan to hear back from the hiring manager, just so you aren’t left hanging! This way, if you don’t hear back within the set time frame, you can know when to either follow up or move on to other opportunities.
Have further questions on what to do if you don’t hear back from a hiring manager? Stop by during CCO drop-ins Monday-Friday 10am-4pm in Young 132.
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