Don’t Let the Silence Make You Crazy

You’ve applied, interviewed, maybe even interviewed a second time and you haven’t heard back. Why? Is this some sort of tone deaf or sociopathic behavior designed to make you nuts… left to wonder why you haven’t heard anything?
The radio silence can be frustrating and off-putting and it is understandable that if you’re put in a position waiting to hear back (one way or the other) and you never do, or you have to wait an inordinate amount of time that the company in question could be burning a bridge with you. While they may deem someone else as a better fit – it can’t really be their intention to hurt their brand image and make an enemy… right? So what’s behind this (what could be seen as rude) behavior? Consider the following…

• Volume – Companies typically get 250 emails/resumes for an open position. Think about your inbox and the challenges YOU face in keeping up– and you’ll understand why rejection letters or emails are a thing of the past. Would a formal email really make you feel better… or worse?
• Litigation – We live in a litigious society and more and more companies are finding themselves embroiled in employment lawsuits. Rejection letter(s) – worded improperly – can serve as a compelling “exhibit A” in court.
• Practicality – When a letter or email is sent, it is typically signed by an individual. It’s not uncommon for frustrated job-seekers to call, email, etc. trying to talk their way into a job or question the hiring decision. Like it or not, the company is trying to nip that type of behavior in the bud, by not sending out a letter at all.
• Plan B – New hires fall through – either before they get in the door or within the first month or two on the job. If the top candidate or new hire doesn’t work out and the company has already rejected you, it could be a little insulting to ask you to take the position as a rejection is a closed door.

If you get an interview, ask about the follow up process. Then, if they don’t call you back, you can give them a call. But as frustrating as the not hearing back is, don’t let it make you crazy – if you over pursue an opportunity you look desperate – and if you are in play, you might be taking yourself out of the running.

Companies like Willory give you (the job hunter) an edge. Instead of getting lost in an avalanche of resumes and trying to win the lottery, Willory can help you nail an interview. Afterwards, we contact the company to get feedback and a definite answer about the job opportunity. It’s much more likely to get a response from the company and get tips on how to improve your skills for the next interview.