How Long Should You Wait for an Interview Response?
Waiting to hear back after an interview can be a stressful experience, filled with uncertainty and second-guessing. How much time is too long before you should start to worry?
My Background
I have spent the last 4.5 years working at a Big Four firm in the UK in Audit, currently at the Assistant Manager level. While I genuinely appreciate my job, enjoy my client interactions, and am engaged in fascinating work, I find myself contemplating whether to continue striving for a managerial position. The competition at the Assistant Manager level at my firm is quite intense.
The Opportunity
Recently, I applied for a finance Manager position through a recruiter. The role demanded someone with more experience, yet the offered salary seemed insufficient for what such experience entails. Given my background, which aligns perfectly with the requirements, I felt confident moving forward.
After a favorable first-round interview where I connected well with the hiring team, I anticipated a prompt follow-up. However, three weeks passed without any word. I decided to reach out halfway through that period, but still, I received no response.
Just when I thought it was time to move on, the recruiter contacted me, expressing that the company wanted to arrange a second interview. At that point, I had already started to let go of my hopes regarding the position.
Reflection
This experience raises a question: Am I overreacting to the silence during the waiting period, or is this a common issue many face? The recruiter seemed quite frustrated by the delay, adding to my concerns.
If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, how did you cope with the waiting period? Or how do you gauge when it’s time to follow up—or when it’s better to step back and reevaluate your options? Your insights could be invaluable for those navigating the tricky waters of job hunting, especially in a competitive atmosphere like finance.
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