Quick Answer
There is no set timeframe for how long you should wait to hear back from HR after a job interview. Generally, you can expect to wait anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks. If you haven’t heard anything after 2 weeks, it’s reasonable to reach out to the recruiter or hiring manager for an update. Be patient and professional as the hiring process can take time.
How long does it typically take to hear back after an interview?
The amount of time it takes to hear back from HR after an interview can vary greatly depending on the company and hiring situation. Here are some general timeframes:
- 24-48 hours – For initial phone screenings or early round interviews, you may hear back within a day or two.
- 3-5 business days – For in-person interviews, most companies will follow up within 3-5 business days. However, some may take longer.
- 1-2 weeks – For final round/executive interviews or complex hiring processes, it’s not unusual to wait 1-2 weeks for a response.
- 2+ weeks – Sometimes companies need to conduct multiple interviews or have applicants complete assessments. This can lengthen the process to 2 weeks or longer.
Keep in mind that these timeframes are general guidelines – some companies will respond more quickly while others may take longer. Factors like the number of interviews, background checks, and internal approvals can all impact the timeline. The hiring manager’s availability can also affect when you hear back.
What affects the response time?
There are a variety of factors that can influence how long it takes to hear back from HR after an interview:
Number of interviews
The more extensive the interview process, the longer it will likely take. For example, if there are multiple interviews, presentations, or assessments involved, it can draw out the process. Feedback needs to be collected from various stakeholders.
Candidate background checks
If background checks or reference checks are required, it adds time before a hiring decision can be made. HR needs to complete the verification process before moving forward.
Hiring manager availability
Sometimes delays happen because a hiring manager is traveling, tied up in meetings, or handling other priorities. Their schedule may push back follow-up timing.
Internal approvals
There may be internal stakeholders, committees, or processes that factor into the hiring decision. More layers of approval mean a longer response time.
Other qualified candidates
If the company is interviewing other qualified candidates for the role, they may want to complete the full slate before deciding. Interviewing additional applicants extends the process.
Company size
Larger companies often have more formal processes and protocols in place. This can extend timelines compared to a smaller organization.
Job level
Entry-level roles typically have a quicker turnaround than specialized, executive-level openings that require deeper evaluation.
Follow up if you don’t hear back
If you haven’t heard back from HR after two weeks, it is reasonable to reach out to the recruiter or hiring manager for an update on the hiring timeline.
Here are some tips for following up:
- Send a polite email checking on the status of the role. Don’t appear frustrated or impatient.
- If you interviewed with multiple people, contact the person who would most likely be your direct supervisor or lead recruiter.
- Mention that you are still very interested in the role and you would appreciate any updates they can provide.
- Avoid calling unless specifically told you can. Most companies prefer email.
- If you still don’t hear back after 1-2 follow-up attempts, consider that you may no longer be in consideration.
The key is to be persistent but patient. Hiring often takes longer than candidates expect. Continue applying for other roles as well until you have a firm job offer.
Reasons you may not have heard back yet
If it’s been over two weeks and you have followed up with the hiring manager to no avail, here are some possible reasons for the extended silence:
They’re still considering other candidates
Even if you had an amazing interview, the company may be interviewing a pool of applicants for the role. They likely want to complete all interviews before deciding.
The position was put on hold
Budget issues, reprioritized projects, or a change in department needs could result in the role being paused or cancelled altogether. Unfortunately companies don’t always notify candidates when this happens.
The hiring manager is out
It’s possible the person responsible for your application is on vacation, sick leave, or otherwise occupied. That can unavoidably delay the process until they return and catch up.
There’s disagreement over top candidates
If the interviewers don’t agree on their hiring choice, it can take more time for internal debate and potentially additional interviews.
The company is bureaucratic or disorganized
Some organizations are fraught with inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and red tape. This can vastly slow down their hiring processes.
You’re the backup candidate
In some cases, the company may have offered the role to their first choice but are waiting to see if that person accepts before informing other candidates.
Regardless of the reason, try to be patient. Following up periodically is fine, but avoid being pushy or confrontational. Keep apply for other opportunities in the meantime.
When can you assume you didn’t get the job?
At what point can you safely assume you’re no longer in the running for a position after interviewing? Here are some general guidelines:
- You interviewed but never heard back – 3 weeks
- You received an initial follow-up but no subsequent communication – 2-4 weeks
- You followed up and were told they are still finalizing the process – Give it another 1-2 weeks.
After following up periodically and not getting meaningful responses (or being rejected outright), it’s usually safe to conclude after 3-6 weeks that you are likely out of consideration.
Exceptions could be if you know the company is undergoing major transitions/mergers or is on a temporary hiring freeze. Otherwise, move forward in your job search. Don’t dwell on the role – continue applying to companies that value clear communication.
Confirming rejection from the company
While it’s frustrating to be left hanging, you most likely will not get definite confirmation that you’ve been rejected post-interview. Companies don’t always notify applicants unless they made it to the final round.
Here are some options if you want to try and get closure:
- Send a follow-up email acknowledging you’ve assumed you’re no longer in consideration based on the prolonged timeline without response.
- If you have a contact at the company, reach out for insider intel on where they’re at in the hiring process.
- Check online and social media to see if the company has announced any new hires for the role or similar ones.
- Note that most companies will not provide formal rejection notices due to legal concerns over disclosing reasons for hiring decisions.
While official rejections are ideal for closure, don’t become overly fixated. Take the non-response as a “no” and move forward. Discussing it with a mentor or career coach can also provide useful perspective.
When to move on and continue your job search
At what point should you stop waiting around to hear from a company post-interview and focus your energy elsewhere? Here are some signs it’s time to move on:
- You’ve followed up twice with no reply after 3-4 weeks.
- The hiring manager says they will let you know by a certain date, but that date passes with no word.
- You interviewed for an opening that was clearly entry-level several weeks ago with no updates.
- The company has announced on social media or job boards that they are hiring candidates for the role.
- You applied to a startup that is now laying off staff/shutting down.
Letting go of hope for a particular job is difficult, especially if you felt the interview(s) went well. But at a certain point, you need to be realistic and invest your time applying and interviewing for other opportunities that may move more quickly.
Trust your gut. If something feels off or stalled, it likely is. Don’t let waiting around for one role slow down your job search progress. Stay active and persistent in putting your candidacy out there.
Ways to stay busy while waiting to hear back
The period where you’ve interviewed but are awaiting responses on job applications can be anxiety inducing. Here are some productive ways to occupy your time while waiting to hear back from HR:
Continue applying for other jobs
Don’t make the mistake of putting all your eggs in one basket. A promising interview doesn’t guarantee an offer. Keep applying for similar roles to increase your odds.
Connect with your network
Reaching out to personal and professional contacts is a great way to line up informational interviews. Expanding your network opens doors.
Prepare for additional interviews
Use the downtime to brush up on your interview skills and refine your pitch. Practice for different types of interview situations.
Enroll in a course
Pursuing a certification or online learning keeps your skills sharp. It also shows initiative.
Attend industry events
Joining local professional groups and attending events puts you in front of potential new employers.
Work on your online profile
Make sure your LinkedIn profile, online portfolio/personal website, and social media accounts project a polished, professional image.
Exercise and practice self-care
Don’t neglect your physical and mental well-being during the stressful waiting periods. Stay healthy.
Keeping busy will make the time pass faster while also strengthening your candidacy. Don’t just sit around anxiously waiting by the phone. Take action to continue progressing your career.
Conclusion
It’s frustrating to feel left hanging without clear communication from HR post-interview. Unfortunately, the delays are often out of your control. While there are no hard rules about appropriate wait times, if you don’t hear back within 2-4 weeks, it’s reasonable to reach out once or twice for a status update. Be patient, professional, and persistent.
Rather than obsessively waiting for one role, take steps to nurture your network and expand your job search efforts. If by 3-6 weeks you are still stuck in limbo, tactfully withdraw your application and move forward. Don’t take the silence personally. Channel your energy into finding companies that make you feel valued throughout the hiring process. With a mix of follow-up, self-advocacy, and patience, you’ll eventually land at an organization excited to have you join their team.
