How Long...?

[JMomBaby]

Hello, I have a question: once background and reference checks are completed on applicants, how long does it usually take for a manager to make a "final decision" and give the good news to the lucky applicant?

Also: when someone is offerd a position and gives the verbal "yes," does HR usually wait for a signed contract to be completed before notifying other applicants that the position was filled?

[JMomBaby]

Anybody?

The reason I ask is because I was told a week ago that all checks were completed and that they were "very close" to a decision, and the silence of the phone... is sooooo painful

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

For the first one: I think you didn't get an answer because there really isn't one set answer. Some facilities decide within hours; others take days, weeks...occasionally months. Or they may have decided to pass on you but are taking the coward's way out and not contacting you.

I'm sorry you're in the waiting game. Since it's been a week, a gentle follow-up call on your part couldn't hurt. I do hope that you have been continuing the job search on the side in case this opportunity doesn't pan out.

For the second one: who did the offer come from? If it came from anyone other than HR, you do NOT have a job just yet.

If it did come from HR then it's a legit offer...but for your question, I don't know. They may close the position right away, or they may solicit a few more applications in case you don't work out (e.g., you fail a background check, change your mind, whatever), or it may just be one of their "eternally-open" they use to gather applications, meet quotas, etc.