How long should I wait…for a company to get back to me after an interview?
It seems like I have had a variation of this question every day for the past 25 years:
How long should I wait for a company to get back to me after an interview? I interviewed for one job two weeks ago and I haven’t heard a thing yet. The interview went well as far as I could tell. I’ve left him two voicemail messages and one email thank-you message. No response. Should I give up and move on?
First, let’s recognize there are two components to this statement. One is the desire to end the job search and move our lives forward. The other is our desire to be liked, “did the interviewer like me?”
We like it when people like us. We hate to hear “No, we don’t want to hire you.” Even if we know we’d hate the job, we still want to get the offer!
Set up a respectful follow-up schedule with the interviewer. Frequently enough to show your interest but short of stalking. Then put it out of your mind. Wondering and worrying about how you did at the interview is a waste of your time.
If you hear from them, you’ll cross that bridge, no need to wait and worry about when and whether they will be in touch.
If you are meant to work with those people, you will hear from them. If not, it’s not the right job for you.
Don’t wait for any employer to get back to you after an interview. Waiting implies inaction, a loss of momentum. If you pause your job search even for a week you may have just missed the perfect opportunity for you.
Keep the job search going at full power. Continue to network, respond to postings and improve your skills. Continue to develop more opportunities and let the most deserving employer win.
Rick Christensen: Director, Career Transition Practice
Rick has been a career consultant for over 20 years, serving a very broad-based and diverse clientele. His specialties include effective group facilitation, one-on-one coaching and consultation at all levels including senior executives.
Rick’s passion is coaching individuals through career transitions, developing career management strategies and in identifying and sharpening competencies to open doors to new opportunities. His efforts have assisted thousands of individuals achieve their full potential.
