GHOSTED BY YOUR POTENTIAL EMPLOYER?

You’ve been called to a job interview. You showed up to the interview nervously, but you did it. Now that that’s done, it’s time to wait for the results. But wait, how long are you supposed to wait to hear back from your potential employer? It’s been a few days… could it be… you’ve been ghosted?

Chin up! I know the wait can be dreadful especially when you’re looking forward to hearing the answer. Let’s face the fact: If you’ve waited long enough, that silence is the answer you’re looking for. In my opinion, it's not cool for companies to keep candidates hanging, whether the news is positive or negative.

If you find yourself in this situation, here’s what you can do while waiting to hear back from your interviewer:

1. Follow up with employer
HR might have overlooked your application; in this case, you should reach out to them. Drop them a polite email or call them up. Brace yourself for the answer they’ll give you because chances are they’ll tell you you’re still on the waitlist or you weren’t shortlisted for the next round of the interview. Whichever it is, getting closure will help you get peace of mind.

2. Reflect on the interview
It’s possible you flunked your interview, but don’t sit around and wait for that email or call to find out! Use this opportunity to reflect on what you could do better for your next job interview. You could also learn new things or enhance the skills you already have. Take online courses, practise, and refine your abilities.

3. Put that reflection to good use!
Which leads to this point! Now that you have thought about how to bounce back from the interview, take proactive steps to improve your performance for future opportunities. Craft better answers for your next job interviews. Add the newly acquired skills you’ve gained into your resume and cover letter to make your profile more attractive to potential employers. Being ghosted by one employer doesn't mean you won't be appreciated elsewhere.

4. Trust the process
Someone once told me that the right job comes at the right time. If you didn’t get an offer this time, don’t dwell on it. Consider it a sign that something better awaits you in the future. With your improved skills and knowledge, you'll be a valuable asset to a company that truly values your expertise and contributions.

5. Join networking sessions
While working on self-improvement, consider participating in career fairs and networking events. These events can help you connect with other job seekers and potential employers, expanding your professional network and possibly leading to new opportunities.

You’re in luck because there is an opportunity for you to network and it’s happening this month! Join the GRADUAN Aspire+ Conference 2023 on 25 November at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and expand your horizons. You're on the path to finding the right opportunity, and each experience, even if it involves being ghosted, is a step towards your goal. Register now at graduan.com/aspireplus and get ready to come back stronger!

Photo by Vitolda Klein on Unsplash.