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Author Topic: I interviewed and never heard back from them  (Read 4002 times)
chicago_48
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« on: October 08, 2009, 09:10:40 PM »

Okay, this happened in August.  I went to interview for a high-paying AdminAsst position with a grant-based program @ college.  I thought the interview went well.  I emailed them a better list of references.  I called a week later to find out if they had chosen anyone.....and then nada.  Nothing.  No call back, no letter, nothing.

I wrote the Recruiting Manager to find out if the position was filled....nothing.

So, what would be a good next move.  It's October, so I figure they've hired someone, but wouldn't they at least let me know?
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mended_drum
Potnia theron and
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« Reply #1 on: October 08, 2009, 09:57:01 PM »

Yes, it's rude that they haven't gotten back to you.  There are a myriad of threads on the fora listing reasons this happens which can range from budget crises, to the slow turning of administrative wheels, to mere rudeness or incompetence.  But, alas, it's not all that unusual.  If it were me, I'd just forget about the job and move on.  If they do call after a long silence, you can then be pleasantly surprised.

I don't know if the rule used for faculty positions always applies to administrative ones, by the way, but that rule is:  only call if you have another offer and need to let them know by what date you need to respond to that offer.  Otherwise, don't call them, they'll call--or not--you.
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irhack
Marshwiggle
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« Reply #2 on: October 09, 2009, 09:40:18 AM »

I think it's rude but in my experience it seems it's more common to not hear back than to hear back. Not hearing back means you didn't make the cut. Sorry. A good next move is to keep looking, which you should always do unless you actually have an offer, in writing, in your hands.
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vardahilwen
One of the cool kids
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« Reply #3 on: October 09, 2009, 09:17:02 PM »

It's very rude, but unfortunately not unusual.

I've had one good experience with this, that I will always remember (and vow to do likewise).  After the interview, I received a call, and they told me, "we liked you very much, but we've chosen another candidate.  However, it was a tough decision, and we were divided on it - many of us favored you.  If a similar position comes up in the near future, we will consider you."

Sure, I thought.

Lo and behold, they called me back two months later and offered me a job outright.

And to make things even more interesting ... the first person they hired didn't work out :P
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You can sit at my lunch table.
chicago_48
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Posts: 376


« Reply #4 on: October 10, 2009, 05:21:33 AM »

I hope that's the situation, because I really wanted the job and it was with a college that's much better than the one I'm at.
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der_gadfly
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oy vey


« Reply #5 on: October 10, 2009, 06:23:58 AM »

I have two files for all my job leads and applications: those that are dead (i.e. I got told no thanks), and the 'might as well be dead' (anything past 3-4 months with no response). The latter is far fatter. I too hate it, but have learned to simply move on.

I have been TOLD by others here that this is simply "the way it is" (and that systems do not change), and that I should spend my time and energy on pursuits other than kvetching about this.


Aw, not happening

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nextgeneration
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Posts: 82


« Reply #6 on: October 12, 2009, 08:43:38 AM »

The job search process is great for learning about those things you never want a candidate to go through.  Make note of these things that bother you in your search process...then vow to avoid them when you're the one managing a search in the future.
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eddean
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Posts: 263


« Reply #7 on: January 02, 2010, 01:04:15 AM »

Most of my experiences with search committees have been good but then I have had experiences such as yours.  An Ivy in New York told me they would let me know, for better or worse, within a few days. That was 1985 so maybe they have a different definition of "a few days."
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meandean
Original Member of Mean Deans of NY
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« Reply #8 on: February 02, 2010, 10:03:06 AM »

It is unfortunate, but some folks don't understand the importance of good manners and treating others with respect.

Chicago, given that you tried, multiple times, to reach out and get some response, and received none, I'd put this experience down to bad manners on the part of the institution's representatives in the HR or department to which you applied. You may actually be fortunate that you didn't get the offer given their behavior.

I'd also suggest that you take your experience to heart and, when you are in the position of hiring someone, remember what it felt like to be ignored, and avoid duplicating a difficult and uncaring experience for some one else.
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chicago_48
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Posts: 376


« Reply #9 on: February 02, 2010, 01:30:46 PM »

Good news!  I start a new job Monday.
I have always felt that you know if you're the candidate if they call back within 2 days and ask you more questions or ask you to come in for another interview.  It doesn't take FOREVER to know if you like someone and if they're qualified.
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