If an employer invited you to a job interview, he was likely impressed with your resume and considers you a qualified candidate. Unfortunately, a job interview doesn't always lead to a job offer. Are you still waiting to hear back from an employer you interviewed with weeks ago? If so, consider these four common reasons why some employers leave candidates hanging after an interview.
1. Poor First Impression
Sometimes, you can make a poor first impression during a job interview without even realizing it. Did you fail to make eye contact with the hiring manager or forget to shake his hand? Was your hygiene and grooming subpar? Was your cologne too strong? Did you forget to spit out your gum? There's no way of knowing what you might have done, but it's important to remember that It doesn't take much to turn off a hiring manager.
2. Too Desperate
Did you laugh extra hard or a little too long at the interviewer's stale jokes? Were you willing to accept any salary the hiring manager offered? Did you practically beg for the position? If so, it's not surprising you didn't receive a call back. There's nothing wrong with being excited about your potential future with an organization, but don't appear too desperate, as desperation in any form turns most people off.
3. Negative Attitude
No matter how bad of a day or week you're having, always come to the hiring manager's office with a happy, positive demeanor, even if you have to fake it. Entering a hiring manager's office with a negative attitude is a definite way to ruin your chances of getting the job. Also make sure you don't speak negatively about previous employers or workmates during the job interview. Being too cocky or having an obvious chip on your shoulder sends a negative vibe, so no matter how qualified you are for the position, stay humble.
4. You Didn't Get the Job
Even if you do everything right, there's still a chance you might not be the right fit for the job. If you're not the candidate the manager wants to hire, you won't be at the forefront of his mind. He might forget to call you or simply decide not to give you a call. Don't expect all hiring managers to be courteous, and don't take this personally. Follow up with the employer a couple of times, and leave a message if you get his voicemail. Most importantly, always continue your job search efforts until you receive an official job offer.
You're not always going to hit a homerun during a job interview, and that's okay. Instead of beating yourself up, learn from the experience, and move on. If you continue to attend job interviews and never hear back from employers, it might be time to reevaluate your interview style. Hold mocks interviews with friends, mentors or a job coach, and ask for feedback and tips that can help you make a better impression with employers.
Photo courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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