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Interview Feedback
I have been looking for a job for 3 years now and have been struggling to get interviews (I’ve had 2 in the last 3 years). My friend ended up recommending me for a job about 6 weeks ago. The interview went well, the recruiter told me ‘your interview was almost perfect.’ The hiring manager also told me that I would move to the final step of the interview process unless the next interview (with a potential peer) ‘gave a dramatically different impression of me’
After the interview with the peer, which I felt went well, 3 weeks went by and I got an automated email on a Saturday at 3am saying I didn’t get the job. I requested feedback because I was very confused that I was not moved forward in the process. It has been over a week since I sent this email and I haven’t heard anything.
How long should I wait before requesting feedback again?
Any advice on how to get more interviews without a personal recommendation from a current employee?
Anonymous
11/18/20 at 6:25PM UTC
When I read your story my biggest concern was the lack of contacts you have received in general. I would recommend you first do a review of your resume and ensure it is providing the following:
- A clear outline of your strengths and accomplishments
-Points supported by data, i.e. do not say, strong project management skills...Say- Lead a project on X to completion 2 weeks ahead of schedule with 10% cost savings
- Should not be longer than 2 pages
-Have someone review and ask them to provide 5 recommendations to improve- this lets them know you want honest feedback.
- Lastly, ask a friend in your field if they have a peer who would do a mock interview with you and provide you feedback on how you come across, body language, and demeanor.
I would not spend my energy on a role that has not been offered and given the litigious society we live in, its not likely to provide much valuable feedback anyways,.
Emily MorganAccounting Specialist with a Consulting Degree
103
11/17/20 at 2:43PM UTC
This must have been so frustrating for you. Over the summer I was referred to a job by a friend. I did their 3 minute video about myself, was called in to interview just two days later, they walked me through what I would be doing in that position, had me listen in on some calls, do a computer competency...my friend and I thought it was in the bag! They emailed me only 3 HOURS later to tell me they had gone with someone else. It definitely made me think they had only interviewed me to appease my friend and that they already had someone else (probably an internal hire) for that role. I wish they would have just denied me the interview rather than bring me in for all that!
Deborah Waddell
43
11/16/20 at 3:05PM UTC
It sounds like you aren't getting enough looks from employers. Remember it is like a sales persons funnel. Resumes sent>Views on Linked in>Contacts from views>Interviews>job offers. You want to have lots of good resumes going out to feed your pipeling.
I was 61 the last time I looked for a job. I live in a rural area and was earning 6 figures as a multi unit Human Resources Manager at a fortune 50 company. This is not an ideal job seeking situation. I took a class on how to use Linked In. There are a lot of them out there and I am sure there are many good ones. The one I happened to use was at https://linkedintojobs.com/
Within a few months I found my dream job. The top HR spot at a smaller, but growing company. My income is now what it was and I am well matched for that company and can make a contribution to them that will continue after I retire. I now do most of my work remotely and that is perfect for me.
Katlynn Batcher
19
11/17/20 at 3:46AM UTC
This is great advise! I have been putting out a lot of resumes, but will definitely look into learning more about how to use LInkedIn to my advantage!
April
212
11/16/20 at 2:55AM UTC (Edited)
This is a very difficult realization to come to when your search has been so dedicated, then you land an interview but not the job. As a member of FGB, I recommend this- do not call back for feedback.the more messages you leave, the more negative the memory of your interview. Recruiters jobs are not to give feedback but they are expected to fill job vacancies . They may not even know truthfully why you were not selected. Own your search. Don’t place the responsibility on the recruiter . I know it’s hard. I’ve had interviews where after seeing 6 people I was declined the next day. I know it’s hard. Trust that you need to get unstuck on getting feedback from the company. They will not return your calls - the risk of a discrimination claim is too high. Look for any of us who can mock interview with you, check your interview responses ... let’s get you unstuck.
Keisha Jones
217
11/16/20 at 12:13AM UTC
Hi Katlynn ,
If I were you , I would keep it moving, it seems like the company may have already had someone in mind that they wanted hire for that position
But in order to be fair the company had to list the job.
Also, your friend heard about the job opening and thought that you were a good fit for the job not realizing that a decision had already been made behind closed doors.
Elianet OlivaMake things happen!
278
11/15/20 at 5:08PM UTC
Hi Katlynn,
Not sure what exactly is your field, but have you looked at returnships? There are a few companies out there offering this kind of program for people with more than 2 years off of work. It is a great program, I looked into it when I was going through my search recently, but unfortunately didnt qualify. Off the top of my head two companies that do this are Tmobile and Wells Fargo. Look into those opportunities. Good Luck and keep believing in yourself, it will all come around.
Amy Randall BeltzCustomer Experience Evangelist
82
11/15/20 at 4:05PM UTC
What a frustrating situation! Regarding your question about getting more interviews: It can be really tough to feel like a personal connection is the only way “in” these days. With so many applicants for each role, those internal recommendations go a long way. If you haven’t yet done so, I’d recommend aggressively networking with people already in your network - old colleagues, friends from school, etc to say hello and see how they’re faring this year...and working into the conversation that you’re on the hunt. Being top of mind for people may turn up some opportunities with a personal connection as they have conversations with their colleagues or with family members and others in their networks. As you were a top candidate for the position you mentioned - you’re close to finding the right thing. Best of luck!
Kimberly Olmo
260
11/15/20 at 4PM UTC
I once was told to take a whole day off for interviews with a company. Two people in, HR met with me, told me to go home and they weren’t interested. They said they would provide feedback and never did. I had gone through two prior phone psychological exams - which some companies do. I was frustrated to not have answers.
I only tell this to show it’s common and frustrating. In your case, you have a friend inside so you may be able to get more information eventually. The other contributors gave great advice re: linked in, resume, and interview practice. I am rooting for you! Good luck!
Rebecca Lee VOperations Analyst
2.22k
11/15/20 at 3:50PM UTC
If they haven't responded I would move on. I know it is frustrating. I'm not sure why you aren't getting interviews.
Is your resume and linkedIn profile mirroring each other?
have you spoken to a career coach?
What field are you looking at is how competitive is that market?
Elyse Shermer
124
11/15/20 at 3:41PM UTC
Katlynn- first I understand and feel your frustration, as I am in a similar boat. Unemployed for a while , getting close to maybe getting hired and then nothing. I have learned that you can :1. Email them asking that you want to learn and state something like" you may have decided to go another way but wanted to know what I can do differently moving forward in my search". IFyou get a reply then maybe it's something to keep in mind moving forward. Unfortunately there are many a times it has nothing to do with you and either the company decided to " go a different direction" and not hire for that position right now. I interviewed with a company , met all the proper people everything was going well they only thing left was being offered the position, then radio silence. I have reached out to my contact there asking how things are going and found out they decided at the time to hire entry level help ( I am more senior) and shelve the position for now. ( all pre pandemic).
My recommendation is unfortunately move on. Maybe email asking your questions but accept that you may not get an answer , especially now.
Remember it may not ne you bit the company itself. Good luck!
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