Top Seven Reasons an Employer Didn't Call You Back
Have you ever left a job interview feeling confident at how well you did? You felt like you answered every question and that your resume reflects how qualified you are for the job. You knew that in short order you would receive a call offering you the job.
And then – nothing. Days turn to weeks, and you hear nothing from the potential employer.
What happened? While there are of course any number of reasons an employer did not call you back, here are seven common reasons that could explain the radio silence despite how well you think you performed.
1. Meaningful Questions
When the recruiter or hiring manager asks if you have any questions at the end of your interview, you should always have several ready to ask.
An easy way to do so is to think of some questions beforehand. But an even better approach is to ask questions tailored to a particular topic you discussed with the interviewer. This approach will show that you are engaged and interested in the role.
2. Interviewer Incompatibility
Sometimes you can do everything right, and notwithstanding your qualifications and experience, the interviewer may just not like your personality. Try not to take it personally, as there are certainly former co-workers or superiors about whom you felt the same.
3. No Thank You Email
Believe it or not, a follow-up email thanking your interviewer for their time can still go a long way.
Not only is it a courtesy that speaks volumes about your professionalism, but it will also bring your name and interview back into consideration.
4. Hiring Needs Have Changed
Sometimes hiring decisions change partway through the hiring process. A former employee could return, budgetary constraints could eliminate a position, or a global pandemic may cause a sudden hiring freeze.
5. High Salary Expectations
Not surprisingly, budgetary constraints limit how much an employer can compensate a potential candidate. And so, an employer must balance what they need with what they can afford.
This means that at times, an employer may opt for the second-best applicant who is just a little less qualified, but who has much lower salary expectations.
6. They Found Someone Better
It may sting to hear it, but you will not always be the ideal candidate for every position you apply for. Sometimes there is someone with more experience, greater qualifications, or an inside reference that advocates for their hiring.
7. Lack of Professionalism
Some employers just drop the ball. Whether they are swamped with work, or just not responsible enough to let their applicants know they have gone in another direction.
But note this: if you felt confident when leaving an interview, and do not hear anything, do not hesitate to follow up with the interviewer. Maybe they forgot to let you know, or maybe the hiring is ongoing and a final decision has yet to be made. You have nothing to lose, so give it a shot.
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