Category: Job Search Strategy FAQ
What should I do if I don’t hear back after an interview?
Radio silence after interviews is frustratingly common. Here’s your action plan: Timeline: Wait for the timeframe they mentioned. If they said ‘we’ll decide by Friday,’ wait until the following Tuesday or Wednesday to follow up. Companies often run behind schedule. First follow-up (via email): Brief and professional: ‘Thank you again for the opportunity to interview on 2026. I remain very interested in the [position]. Do you have any updates on your timeline or next steps?’ Reiterate interest, ask for timeline update, keep it to 3-4 sentences. If no response, wait one week. Second follow-up: Another brief email after 7-10 days. Maintain enthusiasm but professional tone. ‘I wanted to touch base once more regarding the [position]. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.’ After two follow-ups with no response, it’s likely a ‘soft rejection.’ Move on mentally: Continue applying elsewhere actively. Don’t put all hopes on one opportunity. The reality is many companies ghost candidates despite best intentions. Reasons: position was put on hold, internal candidate was selected, hiring manager left, budget was cut, they’re just slow/disorganized. Very rarely is it about you personally. Learn from it: If you consistently hear nothing after interviews, ask trusted mentors to do mock interviews and give honest feedback. Keep perspective: Their lack of response reflects their processes, not your worth. One company’s pass is another’s perfect fit.
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