The Long Wait After an Interview

“I’m waiting to hear back on an opportunity where I interviewed,” the prospective client shared with me. “If that doesn’t pan out, I’m definitely going to partner with you because it’s been a long wait after the interview.”

“Sounds reasonable,” I replied. “If I may ask, where are you in the interview process with this other opportunity?” If he was just in the first round of phone interviews then it could be a few more months before it progressed all the way to the end.

“I’m a finalist,” he said. “It’s down to me and one other person.”

“Got it,” I said. “You’re at the one-yard line, then. When did you have your finalist interview?”

He thought for a moment. “It was about 3 1/2 weeks ago,” he replied.

“Oh! Were you the first finalist they interviewed?” I asked.

“No, the other guy went first.” I could hear the doubt creeping into his voice.

“Have you followed up?” I asked.

He sighed. “Yes, about 3 times over the last two weeks. I haven’t heard anything back.”

I had to break the news to him even though it would be hard to hear. “They’re likely negotiating an offer with the other guy. Their silence means they’re keeping you warm just in case.”

Even though he knew this was likely the case, he wanted to wait. Three weeks later he called back. It was time for him to get started with Endeavor Agency.