The Waiting Game

I get lots of questions on how long to wait for a response after a resume submission, after an interview or a second interview etc. Here are some good guidelines to help you time your communications:

Submitting a resume: Submit your resume the instant you see a new posting. Do not wait one more second, you want to be first in line and consideration.

Confirming receipt of your resume: After you submit your resume, wait two days then start calling HR or the hiring manager to confirm receipt. Try the first day and if you get someone, or leave a message, sneak in a short commercial about yourself. "Hello, This is ___ and I submitted my resume two days ago regarding the x position. I have 5 years of ___ experience and believe I would be a great fit for you position. I would love to discuss this opportunity with you, please give me a call at your earliest convenience."

Leaving more messages: Leave a message with your contacts every three to four days until they call you back or give you a time line for follow up. 80% of the time you will get the "brush off" by them saying "We'll call you." Be polite and courteous though keep calling about every 4-5 days anyway after the brush off. You will get a more concrete answer sooner if you keep yourself in their minds.

After your First interview: Send a mailed or e-mailed thank you letter early the next morning and follow up with a call after two days. Simply ask for the progress on the position/other interviews/feedback and when you might be able to come in to meet more people for a second interview.

After the Second Interview: Call every 3-4 days to check in and to stress your interest plus to reinforce your fit for the position.

HR vs. Recruiters: HR folks are trained to get you off the phone quickly while Recruiters may give you a straighter answer and may tolerate more follow up calls from you.

Stay positive, courteous and respect everyone's time though be persistent and you will not fall through the cracks. Candidates who consistently follow up get to the finish line faster and more often.

Till next time. Good luck! Scott