Navigating Recruitment Etiquette: Waiting for Feedback After Final Interviews
Embarking on a job search journey is often a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially as you progress through multiple interview stages. Recently, I completed a sixth and final round of interviews with a prospective employer and found myself wondering if my follow-ups with the recruiter were being perceived as overzealous.
Here’s a quick recap of my interview process:
1. Initial conversation with the recruiter
2. A detailed discussion with the hiring manager
3. Engaging with the hiring manager’s colleagues
4. On-site meeting with the director
5. Delivering a presentation and case study to the entire team
6. A technical assessment with the hiring manager and a team member
After my last meeting, I sent a thank-you note to my recruiter on Friday, expressing how insightful and engaging my discussion with the team was. The recruiter replied positively the same day, noting that the team shared my enthusiasm. He mentioned they needed a couple more days for a debrief and invited me to communicate my salary expectations and any competing offers.
On Saturday, I provided my expected compensation and disclosed that I had one other offer on the table. By today (Wednesday), I felt it was necessary to follow up, considering the competing offer’s deadline. The recruiter replied, stating they needed additional time and promised to update me by the end of the week. Additionally, he inquired if there was a timeline for my decision regarding the other offer.
This has led me to ponder if my persistence might have come across as bothersome. Given the extensive month-long interviewing process, I’ve been patient, but I sensed the urgency to check in due to the pressing nature of my other job offer. Despite the recruiter’s polite and straightforward response, I can’t shake the feeling that I might have overstepped.
Finding the right balance in communication during job negotiations is crucial. While it’s important to advocate for yourself, remember that recruiters work with multiple timelines and priorities. If you’re in a similar situation, it’s essential to communicate your timeline effectively while remaining respectful of their process.