Applied for a job but haven’t heard from the company?
You have been in a drawn-out process to get hired at a new firm but every time it seems like the firm is ready to make an offer, there is a new road bump. Is there a message here for you? How should you handle it?
While the hiring company is in the driver’s seat on timing, you can take steps to maintain a sense of personal control.
Don’t jump to conclusions that will make you end up with a negative perspective on the process to date. You may find, for example, that you like the inclusiveness of the process. You may find that even though the process is slow, communication is prompt and respectful. If it’s a great role and the company seems like a fit, then choose to stick with it. If not, either give yourself permission to withdraw or at least ease your emotional connect to the position. Assuming you are staying the course, there are steps you can take to help maintain your patience. One valuable approach is to put yourself in their shoes.
Staffing changes, leadership shifts or corporate re-organisations can put the brakes on hiring decisions, especially if it’s a more strategic level hire. If you are not sure if something like this is at play, spend some time doing research about company changes. It could help set your mind at ease.
Think about your experience as if it’s happening to a friend or colleague. What advice would you have for them? There are steps you can take to keep on the company’s radar, apart from direct check-ins. Create a list of key people involved in the decision, and keep an eye out for articles or news relevant to the company, and your proposed role.
Use social media, including LinkedIn and Twitter, sharing and commenting on items they may have posted.
Keep your job search open. It can be very tempting to rest on a promising option or two, but maintaining your networking activities and continuing to identify and pursue new opportunities will be energising and empowering. It’s also a much safer strategy.
Enjoy the break and special events, and do things that are fun.
– MCT