During a job search, it’s smart to be optimistic about your chances of landing a new position. However, it’s simply a fact that not every opportunity is going to pan out. While you may get a straightforward response from the hiring manager when you aren’t selected, that isn’t always how it plays out. In some cases, they either don’t dedicate the time to informing every candidate of the results, or they prefer to avoid an awkward conversation that can stem from a person being told they didn’t get the job.
Regardless of the reason, there are signs that you should move on to other opportunities, even when you aren’t given an explicit “no” as a response. Here are a few ways you can tell you’re not going to land the job.
They Pull a Disappearing Act
If a previously accessible hiring manager suddenly doesn’t return your calls, it should be considered an indication that they aren’t pursuing you as a candidate for the position. While this approach is frustrating to job seekers, being given the cold shoulder is a sign that the hiring manager’s priorities have changed, and they are likely communicating with someone else about the job. While a courtesy call or email would be nice, not everyone is going to make that effort, especially if their attention is now focused on other applicants.
Inaccurate Information
It’s not easy to tell someone they didn’t get the job, so some hiring managers will resort to making excuses about why they haven’t followed up in a timely manner instead of being straightforward about the results. If a hiring manager tells you they were unexpectedly absent due to something like an illness, but a quick check of their social media profile doesn’t align with their story, consider it a sign that they don’t have the nerve to tell you what has actually happened, but are no longer interested in your for the job.
Cut Off Conversations
Even if you get the hiring manager on the phone, that doesn’t mean you’re getting selected for the position. If they constantly find reasons to end the call, like being late for a meeting or an emergency, something else may be responsible. While unexpected interruptions do occur in the workplace, repeatedly being blown off suggests they want to avoid a lengthy conversation, and that could be an indication they aren’t interested in offering you the position.
Interviewing Other Candidates
Immediately after your interview, you may hear that the hiring manager is meeting with other candidates. While this statement isn’t automatically a sign that you won’t get the job, as many times interviews are scheduled in advance, the language the hiring manager uses can give you clues about your chances. For example, if they state they “want” to interview more applicants, that is often a sign that you aren’t being selected. It suggests there is something they were hoping to find, and that they didn’t find it in you. That doesn’t mean they won’t come back and offer you the job in the end, but don’t stop searching for other opportunities if you hear that statement.
If you’re interested in finding a new job without the hassle of hiring managers disappearing on you, the professionals at TempStaff can connect you with leading employers in the area. Contact us to discuss your career goals and see how our services can help you attain them.