TheJobBored

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Reader Sal from Boston writes:

“I had an interview a week ago today and I haven’t heard anything back from the employer. Is there a standard amount of time I should wait before following up with them? I don’t want to seem too eager.”

Brian answers after the break…

Brian sayz:

Since last week was Thanksgiving, I’d give it at least two more days. For all you know no work got done the second half of last week, or the office was closed. So maybe they’re still planning on getting back to you, but they’re running behind because of the holidays.

But to answer your question, I think waiting one week is pretty much standard. I think you can call them up, or follow up in general and it won’t seem untoward.

If they said something specific, like, “We’ll get back to you in two weeks,” or “We’ll make our decision next month” then you should definitely wait the amount of time they specified. If they told you specifically it will be two weeks and you’re calling after only a week, that might seem a bit eager.

Something else to consider: I know of several employers that make their interviewees wait a specific length of time before they make their decision. Why? If the interviewee doesn’t follow up, then the employer thinks they weren’t that interested in the job to begin with. It’s a sort of informal test to gauge the person’s level of interest/commitment to the job.

So, rule of thumb, wait a week… or wait the specific amount of time they specified… but then definitely follow up.

What do you think, readers? Is one week too soon? Tell us in the comments.