As I wrote before in my post: “Emplyers not keeping the call-back deadline”I thought I’d write an update/continuation of it.
I called the companies, both of them actually, the friday after posting the post. Neither of them answered the phone so I left a message on their voicemail.
If you are nervous or unsure, it’s recommended to use a script, just make your message short and clear, but also, just to calm you down and sound more professional.
I generally don’t use scripts for anything..public speaking, presentations or whatever..If necessary, I use words to remind me of what to say or I practice enough so that (in a presentation) I remember what to say by looking at things like PP slides. I went through what to say a couple of times not only in my head, but speak it out loud. Pay attention to the tone of your voice, the speed that you speak in and the volume. Choose your words to reflect on your professionalism and character. Find a balance that fits you. When you use words or scripts too strictly, you can sound fake and robotic. It’s easy to tell whether you’re using a script or not. Find a balance of being professional and courteous but also allow your personality to shine through. After all, you’re setting the bar of how you communicate. Will you be able to speak like that at all times if you get the job?
This is what I said..approximately:
“Hello ….., this is Claudia Long, we met last week on my interview. As you haven’t gotten back to me yet, I’m just calling to check on the recruiting process and whether I’m still in consideration for the position. You can reach me on my email address xxxxxx or mobile number: xxxxxx, I look forward hearing from you soon, thank you and talk to you soon!”
That was the general message. Remember to sound friendly, polite and courteous.
I left that message on the voicemail and one of the companies called back. Job prospect B.
She was friendly and not bothered, apologizing for not getting back to me earlier and explained that it’s because they had to present the candidates to the CEO who’s been very busy. The CEO had made the decision to choose another candidate since they wanted someone to be able to jump into the ongoing projects and therefor someone who already know Singapore on the back of their hand, which isn’t really me. Not yet anyway haha. Since it was the CEO’s decision and I my gut was telling me that I did well on the interview, the interviewers recommended me to another team. So while I lost one prospect, I got a new one. Which kinda evens it out. With recommendation x 2, hopefully it’ll give me better chances. So now I have job prospect A and C that are ongoing.
My take on this subject is to not be afraid to take initiative to call the company.
Wait at least 1 or 2 days after the deadline that the company gave you. Call and see it as you’re keeping yourself updated.
No matter if they’ll give you good or bad news, at least you’ll know. In my case, I also see it as an extension of my personality and professionalism. Although the decision making lays at the employer, I can still be proactive, get the updates etc. to show that I’m organized, has a good sense of follow-through, professional and can take matters in my own hands while being courteous and respectful.
Always be ready that the employers will react in different ways and I was worried of upsetting them. How would I know which style each employer has?
That’s right, I won’t know cause I can’t read minds and no matter how great people skills I have, I can’t predict since the decision maker might be someone else. So the best option, which isn’t in only work life, is to stay true to yourself. At least you’re doing one person the right thing..right?? =)
Just make sure you have a good attitude and as always, work on your interpersonal skills. By being respectful, courteous etc,I don’t think any employer can get upset with you for calling them back. Actually, a clever employer will like it!
Also, by checking with friends here, locals and other foreigners looking for jobs here in other industries I’ve found out that this situation is common here. Apparently it’s not only employers who say they’ll call you back by a certain day or so, but doesn’t, it’s the same thing if you’re going via a recruiter. So I guess it’s a cultural and a habit of the society here..interesting..frustrating..but a bit more calming, knowing it’s nothing personal =)
So now that I’ve crossed this dilemma of whether or not to call the companies, the next one is: How can I settle/close/land an interview? I have already asked around and will do a bit more of research and write about that topic more clearly..hope that while I’m learning, I can share my experience and thoughts on it.
Good luck with the job-hunting! We can do it! =)
