171
I didn't get the job but I did receive the nicest "not at this time." After 3 interviews (with follow-up emails after each one) I knew that the position was between me and one other person.
Then... nothing. For 2.5 weeks. I sent a very nicely worded email to my contact saying "If I'm still in the running, wonderful! If you've made the selection in favor of the other person, I wish the team the best!". Nothing for 4 days. Then yesterday my contact called me. She apologized for the delay in communication and thanked me for my "so nice and professional email" - because the delay was two-fold: the team was struggling to decide between me and the other person, then they were waiting to see if the other person accepted the offer. I told her I was disappointed but I truly appreciated her letting me know the circumstance. She then said that they always give constructive feedback to the people they do not choose, but in this instance, it really came down to one thing - the person they choose had more direct experience in a high-need area than I had. She followed up by saying "The team asked me to express how much they enjoyed meeting you and that this was a very hard decision. They also asked if they could keep you in mind for future positions and if so, if it would be OK for me to contact you directly." Of course, I told her that would be great. We actually chatted for 15 minutes and she reiterated "There was nothing at all about your interviews or skill set - we truly want you on our team." After the call, I sent her yet another nicely worded email thanking her and expressing my appreciation for the team - and for leaving the door open to future possibilities.
So, while I didn't get the position, I have made good contacts with this company and I truly know that the decision was one based on skill need. My big take-away? Always follow up, nicely/professionally, and ask for feedback.
GabrielOwner at An Nur Scented Candles Aspiring Coder
311
07/09/21 at 12:30PM UTC
Remaining professional on your part demonstrated your excellent interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills! I always follow up nicely as well. I’ve come to the realization that if I’m not extended an offer, that particular job wasn’t meant for me to have. Our career is a journey and learning experience. The right career awaits! Don’t lose hope …
YohanaEmbrace your weirdness
12
07/09/21 at 10:12AM UTC
Thank you for sharing!
Karen PriceExperienced Program Manager, PMP.
320
07/04/21 at 12:17AM UTC
That is great to hear and a very nice experience for sure.
Best of luck!
Kathryn McDanielSeeking to connect mission with constituents.
134
07/03/21 at 6:18PM UTC
I was second choice and was not offered the position. I received a phone call a few weeks later. Their first choice did not last 3 days. The ED asked if I was still interested in the position and was honest with me about the first choice.
He said we made a mistake, we should have hired you. I started a week later and have been there 9 months, with a raise aleady. I appreciated the honesty.
Nidhi VichareVP of Data and AI
71
07/03/21 at 5:58PM UTC
Remember that your network is your net worth. I am so glad that you surfaced above emotional state and embraced positivity. The success is around the corner and the next place you end up going will be lucky to have you! Keep up the spirits.
Rika M PhippsAdministrative Assistant in S.E. Wisconsin
270
07/03/21 at 3:19PM UTC
That is more than what I get. I've always followed up with a thank you after an interview, and then when someone else was chosen, I ask for feedback - what am I missing that could go better potentially for the next time? And, every single time, absolutely nothing.
Davia MadariagaProblem-solving & growing leaders are my passion
171
07/20/21 at 8:14PM UTC
Oh, I get crickets more than feedback as well! That's why this one stood out. It's frustrating to not hear back at all or to not receive any feedback, especially when I really want to improve my skills to increase my hire-ability.
Anonymous
07/03/21 at 1:13PM UTC
It’s kind of sad that this basic courtesy—get back to a final candidate promptly, apologize if you can’t, make clear that the candidate was strong but just wasn’t the one in the end—is something you have to celebrate since it’s so rare.
Davia MadariagaProblem-solving & growing leaders are my passion
171
07/20/21 at 8:15PM UTC
Yes, it is!
Laura WestMarketing Writer/Project Manager, New York, NY
299
07/03/21 at 12:15PM UTC
That's wonderful -- so rare to get that kind of response, and I hope another opportunity at the company comes along for you, because they sound like Good People! Much success to you!
Madeline M.Director of Client Services
149
07/03/21 at 12:10PM UTC
Sounds like they are a great company to work for!
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterTHE career expert for high achievers
4.13k
07/02/21 at 1:50PM UTC
How fantastic! Candidates rarely get this kind of feedback, so you are very fortunate that they were willing to share this with you.
