"How Long Does It Take To Make a Decision?"

How Long Does It Take?

The most nerve-wrecking part of the whole interview process for an applicant is the waiting.  I understand.  I've been there too.  I know what it's like to really want the job and the phone doesn't ring and you just wait.  You have no control over the situation.  If only the HR Manager would get to it!  You think, "Just make a decision, will ya?"

The Other Angle...

Yes, it's frustrating for the applicant.  But consider looking at it from another angle.  The HR Manager is one person; who happens to have your resume with 80-100 others.  In addition to interviewing and hiring, that HR Manager also has a full-time HR job to do.  So, cut him/her a little slack. 

My advice to you is this:  Give it about a week and a half.  Then if you've not heard anything back, simply follow up with an email (on the premise you were just "checking in on the status of the opening.")  It's a little too soon to do so if it's only been a week.  But an HR Manager should be able to review resumes and start scheduling initial interviews within a week and a half. 

Be a Little Assertive if You're Still in the Dark!

If you still don't hear anything, you can send a second email, or leave a pleasant voicemail message on the HR Manager's line.  Never lose your cool.  Show that you are professional and patient, but be able to be assertive.  I've had some rare occasions whereby I never received the applicant's resume and we caught it when the applicant inquired about the status.  I've rarely encountered a company that makes a decision on the fly and hires so quickly it would make your head spin.  It SHOULD take a little time, but not generally longer than 2 weeks to schedule interviews! 

Summary: 

Patience is a virtue, but assertiveness kicks patience to the curb when it comes to pursuing a position.  Give the hiring manager a friendly, "Just checking in" if you've not heard anything back after a week and a half.  If nothing else, your persistence may make the hiring manager remember your name (for what it's worth).

Kathleen Lapekas - PHR

Action HR Consulting

"For Personal Attention to Personnel Matters..."

http://www.actionhrconsultant.com/