How Not to be E-Snubbed
As someone who’s been a candidate many times over, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Neal Hirschfeld’s “The E-Snub.” Basically, he was invited to apply for a position, went through the interview process and even took an editing test. Months went by without a response from the hiring manager or HR. Needless to say, Neal was a little upset.
Sitting down at my computer one morning, I e-mailed the managing editor to say that I had happily accepted the job. More specifically, I wrote that I was “delighted to learn that I will be joining the editorial team!” I went on to say that “the salary and vacation are fine and I will report for duty bright and early Monday morning.”
In case you’re wondering, yes, that got the company’s attention! However, as a career expert (and probably a bit of the hiring manager in me), this “e-snub” possibly could have been avoided altogether.
- During the interview: Always ask, “How and when should I follow-up with you about this position?” This gives you an idea of the time frame with which the organization is working.
- Immediately after the interview: Send a thank you e-mail reaffirming your interest in the position, a few points about why you are the best for the job and referencing the conversation you had with the interviewer. Also, drop a shorter, handwritten thank you note in the mail. We never get regular mail anymore — you will stand out!
- During the “waiting period”: Remember when you asked how and when you should follow-up? Do it — but no sooner than the interviewer indicated. This is best done via e-mail, but don’t simply ask where they are at in the hiring process. Add a little something extra — like an article you think s/he’d appreciate. If you don’t hear back the first time around, follow-up (again, via e-mail) approximately every 7-10 days up to 2-3 times.
Still nothing? Then you probably didn’t want to work there anyway because I feel that’s just plain rude. Candidates deserve to know their status, in my opinion.
But, patience is a virtue — and sometimes the hiring process is unreasonably long for a variety of reasons beyond the hiring manager’s control. Keep all of these things in mind.
What is your advice for avoiding the e-snub? Have you ever been e-snubbed? What has your response been?
