The rules of game after the interview

[NEWGRADNURSE75]

How long should you wait to hear a response from hiring manager?

It's been 2 months since I applied to the hospital and I have had three interviews and no response as to whether I got the job or not? I have been calling the hiring manager every week to ask for an update and she is getting sick of me? Is it unprofessional of me to keep calling? I really would love to work for this particular hospital and I am just trying to show my interest.

[otiscokat]

If manager is still taking your calls, they aren't "sick" of you yet. If you speak with them again just ask if it is O.K. to continue checking ( since I would love the chance to work at your hospital:D). Also ask if there is a usual time frame to get through the hiring process. At one hospital I worked for it was normal to take at least 3 months! Don't give up, but have an alternate game plan, what will you do if you don't get this. You may want to apply other places as a back up. I will think good thoughts for you. Good Luck.

Kathy

[NEWGRADNURSE75]

Kathy,

Thank you for your thoughts, advice and prayers! I guess I am getting pretty anxious about securing a position in this difficult job market. I applied to 6 hospitals and this was the only hospital I got an interview with. (Others said they hired internally or not hiring new graduates.. ) I did my clinicals at this hospital and I hoping to get interviews in other departments, but who knows?

Wow 3 months is a long time. I didn't realize the process could take that long. I would of thought if they like you, they hire you?

Oh, I did call her today and she said, who is this I am in a middle of a meeting? She didn't not sound happy. Maybe, I should not be calling? Should I be emailing and ask what you suggested? (probaly have to wait now) I guess I am kinda old fashion. It seems weird or almost rude to email questions for a job.

[Magsulfate, BSN, RN]

First of all, managers are almost ALWAYS in the middle of a meeting. I would probably just email her and definitely start applying elsewhere. You can send her a thank you note for the opportunity to interview.. blah blah blah... lol but otherwise, it sounds like they're not in a big hurry to hire you. If you need a job, I would not be waiting around for this lady.

[diane227, LPN, RN]

If you are interested in that position, stop calling her. When I was a manager I HATED getting phone calls from applicants. I would always prefer a nice letter from the applicant and this certainly demonstrates a certain level of good manners and respect. I would always contact them by letter if they were not accepted for the position.

Instead of calling, write a note of thanks, highlighting some of your strong points and the fact that you feel that you would be a good fit for the organization, and leave it at that. If you don't get a call, then assume they have found someone else.