What to Do When an Interviewer Never Calls Back
It's natural to feel upset or confused when you don't hear back from someone you've reached out to, especially if the interaction seemed promising. However, it doesn't necessarily mean the end. Let's explore what to do when an interviewer never calls back and why they might not be in immediate contact.
Why You Might Not Hear Back
1. They're a Coward
One oft-cited reason might be that they're too scared to give a straightforward answer. But do not jump to conclusions. Perhaps they're simply handling the situation in their way. Emotional maturity varies among individuals, and some may take time to make a decision.
2. They Said They Would Call Just to Get You to Go Away
It's possible that they agreed to call just to persuade you to stop reaching out. This can manifest in various ways, such as agreeing to a follow-up time only to make you leave them alone. It's important to remember that human behavior can be complex and unpredictable.
3. They Got Busy
Life can sometimes get in the way, and people may be too engrossed in their current tasks to prioritize a phone call. They might have gotten involved in an urgent matter or simply been too busy with daily responsibilities.
4. Technical Issues
Here are some common technical reasons why someone might not return your call immediately:
Their Phone Was Stolen: One of the first things someone might do when their phone is stolen is to get a new one, often resulting in a lost number.
Their Phone Was Lost: Accidents happen, and a misplaced phone can lead to a missed call.
They Broke Their Phone: Sometimes technology can fail us. A broken phone could mean they can't return your call right away.
Family Emergency: When a family member requires emergency surgery, people often prioritize their immediate needs, leading to a lack of communication for extended periods.
Medical Issues: When someone is ill, especially in a hospital setting, they may not feel well enough to take or make calls.
Professional Commitments: Business trips can be incredibly hectic. Long working hours on complex deals can prevent someone from returning calls for prolonged periods.
What to Do Next
Instead of wondering and speculating, consider taking a proactive approach by reaching out yourself. Here’s how:
1. Call with a Joking Tone
Calling and saying something like, "Hey, did you forget about me?" in a playful tone can lighten the mood and give the interviewer a chance to explain without making them feel accused. Be light-hearted and laugh; it can help de-escalate any tension.
2. Understand the Situation
Be open to different possibilities. They might have other pressing matters, or they might need some time to gather their thoughts. Showing empathy can often lead to a more positive outcome.
3. Provide Added Context
Provide some context about why you called. Maybe you had a genuine interest in the position or you wanted to discuss any follow-up questions. This can help them understand your intent better.
Conclusion
If an interviewer never calls back, don't immediately write them off as a coward or emotionally immature. There could be many reasons why they haven't contacted you. By being proactive, understanding, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can increase your chances of building a relationship, even if it's not for this particular opportunity.
Remember, communication iskey, and sometimes it just takes a little more effort for things to fall into place.