The interviewing process is rarely linear and predictable. There are many twists and turns. Here are some examples:
- The company wants to schedule an interview and then doesn’t respond after you’ve given them times that you’re available.
- The job described during the interview doesn’t match the job description you’ve reviewed.
- Different people you talk to at the company have conflicting ideas and expectations about the position.
- You don’t hear back after an interview, and the company won’t respond to inquiries.
- The company expresses interest in extending an offer and then goes silent.
Why does this happen?
Understand that companies don’t simply have openings to fill; they have problems to solve. They may be replacing an expert who held the job for many years. It’s difficult to fill those shoes.
There may be internal hiring options, budgeting issues, and other company priorities. Sometimes the position never gets filled since others at the company absorb the extra workload.
What can you do?
First, “tap them on the shoulder” occasionally to let them know you’re still interested and available. Don’t be a pest, though. Don’t insist on finding out the status of their hiring process. Sit back and wait. If they want to hire you, they’ll let you know. And, if you’ve been passed over, don’t expect much feedback. Companies aren’t interested in debating their decisions.
Second, be patient. Although there doesn’t seem to be any sense of urgency on their part today, tomorrow could be a different story. In the meantime, keep applying for other jobs.