How long do they wait after Job interview?

[trulfe]

I had a job interview 8 days ago that I really want. Everything seemed to go well, but I havent heard anything back from them since. How long typically do jobs take to get back to you to offer you a position? Is it most likely that they wont hire me because its already been 8 days?

 

[StageLeft]

Probably too late. My question is: Why didn't you call them back? They should have either told you then (When you're done a job interview ask how long they are going to take deciding) or you should have called back two days later and keep hounding until you get an answer.

You might still get it but I wouldn't think so.

 

[Ameesh]

I'd call and tell them you appreciate them taking the time to interview you.

 

[trulfe]

I didnt know that I was supposed to call them back. I had one interview, then another at a different location with another person. After the second one they didnt tell me what I was supposed to do.

What would I say even if I called them? Do you want me????

 

[Cerebus451]

You can call them back and ask what the status of the position is. Don't be pesky, but you can call them and let them know how much you enjoyed talking to them, etc, etc. They could just be waiting to interview other candidates (with the economy the way it is, when job openings come up there is typically a long line wanting to interview), or they may have offered to someone else and are waiting for a confirmation from that person. Of course, they might have just blown you off as well. Don't give up all hope, give them a call and see what's happening.

 

[StageLeft]

I also ALWAYS email something later that day or next day at latest to the person if I have their email saying thanks for taking the time to meet with me, sounds interesting, blah blah

 

[WW]

always send a thank you letter, and then call them after about a week. Sometimes hiring decisions take a very long time, plus now I bet it's hard to get 'final approval' from management to extend an offer.

Calling the person that makes the hiring decision can make a big difference...it shows you are proactive and really interested in the job. Ask them how the search is going and how long it will be before a decision is made. Restate that you are interested. If they say it's filled already, tell them to consider you for any other openings, or ask them if they know of other companies with openings (use them to network!).

I know several people that were hired simply because they were the ones that called to follow-up.

 

[snooker]

Ya I would give them a call tomorrow and ask for the head of personnel and inquire into the position you were seeking. That is usually who hires and fires unless it is a big company, then just call whatever number you called to start the interview process.

 

[trulfe]

thanks guys. ill give them a call in a bit.

 

[trulfe]

I just called and they said that they are still interviewing for 2 more weeks, and then they will let me know. at least I still have a chance.

 

[DaveSimmons]

<< Probably too late. My question is: Why didn't you call them back? They should have either told you then (When you're done a job interview ask how long they are going to take deciding) or you should have called back two days later and keep hounding until you get an answer.. >>



From being involved in hiring developers I'd say the hounding part is a very bad idea. During the interview is perfectly OK to ask when a decision will be reached, but if you didn't then call and ask once, politely. Be a pest and you may get tossed into the discard pile.

[edit, PS] also, if you're applying at a small company there's not much value in the follow-up thank-you letter. We're all too busy doing our jobs to care Seriously, we're taking time away from normal work to read resumes, interview, etc. and we just want to find someone good, fast, and get them on board to fill the hole in our development team, tech support, etc.

 

[trulfe]

thanks for the advice dave. i am hoping that they will pick me, but all i can do is wait as well as search other places as well.

 

[StageLeft]

<< also, if you're applying at a small company there's not much value in the follow-up thank-you letter. We're all too busy doing our jobs to care >>

I had somebody specifically tell me before it made a good impression on them. Thing is it can't hurt and it CAN help so it's worth doing!

 

[StageLeft]

<< thanks for the advice dave. i am hoping that they will pick me, but all i can do is wait as well as search other places as well. >>

The WORST thing you can do is go for an interview and then wait to see what happens before continuing search. You ideally want as many as possible with as many possibilities as possible. Never ever put all your eggs in one basket.

 

[DaveSimmons]

<<

<< also, if you're applying at a small company there's not much value in the follow-up thank-you letter. We're all too busy doing our jobs to care >>

I had somebody specifically tell me before it made a good impression on them. Thing is it can't hurt and it CAN help so it's worth doing! >>

Good point, at worst it will be ignored so if you have time and it's a job you want, why not? (Unlike calling many times, which could be negative.) My point is more not to stress about it if you didn't, and not to feel that you have to.

[PS] and not waiting to hear about one job before sending other resumes is more good advice, especially in this case where it will be weeks before finding out.

 

[trulfe]

yeah, i am doing other interviews too, but this one seems like the most interesting.

 

[yakko]

Depends on the company and the need.