Why Does It Take So Long To Hear Back After an Interview?

Few things feel better than walking out of a successful interview. You “clicked” with the hiring manager, had an answer for every question asked, and are convinced that you’ll love the job and will gladly say “yes!” when an offer appears.

So when days go by without a peep from the employer, you may be left wondering, “What happened?”

Although hiring managers know it’s important to move a hiring process along efficiently, delays are often inevitable. A long delay may have nothing to do with your interview performance. Instead, any of the following things might be happening “behind the scenes”:

  • Business as usual. Hiring is a “special situation” in most companies, which means hiring managers must fit it in along with their usual workload. Keeping up on day to day work while also juggling interviews takes time.
  • Ongoing interviews. Interviewing applicants takes time, and interviews are often spread over several days or even weeks. If you were among the first interviewees, you may be forced to wait while the process concludes.
  • A vital decision-maker is out of the office: sick, on leave, or on business.
  • Consideration and re-consideration. Perhaps the company has a multi-level hiring process that requires multiple managers to sign off on each step of the process. Maybe the company is re-thinking the job description, the placement of the new hire within the company’s structure, or other decisions.

What Can You Do?

While many of the “delay” factors after an interview are not within your control, you can still take proactive steps on your own behalf, like:

  • Follow up. But do it briefly, politely, and not too often. After sending your thank-you note immediately after the interview, wait at least a week before touching base. If you have a new accomplishment to share, use it as a reason to reconnect.
  • Keep searching. Even if this interview is for your “dream job,” don’t stop looking for work and attending other interviews. You’ll keep yourself busy, improve your interview skills further, and still be prepared if an offer does come.
  • Connect with your “support team.” Spend time with people who will encourage positive, constructive acts while you are waiting. Volunteering, starting a new project, or taking up a new hobby can all help relieve stress during this time.
  • Be patient. Address what you can control, and let go of what you can’t. Remember, the wait time is usually not about you.

At THE RIGHT STAFF, LLC, our experienced recruiters can help you improve your performance in job interviews and find the position you’re looking for. Contact us today to learn more our job opportunities in Minneapolis and beyond.

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