D.B. writes:
After 5 years in my first management position, I decided it’s time to move on. I sent my resume to apply for a manager position with a bigger company about 3 weeks ago.
I was immediately asked to come in for an interview with HR. Then, 2 days later I was asked to come in again to meet with the director who this position reports to. Then, 2 days later I was asked to come in again; this time to meet with a technical resource (another manager who would be in the same level) and the president. Both indicated that they liked my experience, my technical capabilities and also my personality.
I haven’t heard anything for almost 2 weeks! I wanted to follow-up but I’m afraid that it may looks as if I’m desperate to get the job, but if I don’t write, I wouldn’t know what went wrong.
Help!
The Career Doctor responds:
Yours is a very common situation in job-hunting today. Everything is done at the employer’s pace, and sometimes you are moving rapidly, as you did with the interviews, but then something happens, and the employer dramatically slows the pace. And the job-seeker is left to question what is going on behind the scenes.
There are any number of reasons why an employer changes pacing. An internal candidate may have come forward. A major client may have canceled a contract. They may be waiting on another candidate or two to schedule interviews. They may be considering a hiring freeze. Or perhaps they just want to see how many other highly qualified candidates are out there by holding the position open longer.
How can you find out what is going on? Repeat this statement after me: Following up all job leads is a crucial part of job-hunting; it shows interest in the job, NOT desperation.
I would call the director today — not the HR person — and tell him/her how interested you are in the position, how confident you are in making a contribution to the company’s success, and asking about where they are in the hiring process. Following-up NEVER hurts your chances unless you are rude about doing it. Following-up is essential.
Finally, I am a little concerned that you say you sent thank-you notes only to the HR person. Why? You missed a great opportunity in not sending thank-you notes to the director, the other manager, and the president!
I suggest you read this article, published on Quintessential Careers: Follow Up All Job Leads: Don’t Wait by the Phone (or Computer). Finally, this article might be of use as well: FAQs About Thank You Letters.
