Job hunting is complicated with struggles, but perhaps nothing at all is more vexing than being stuck at the same point in the interview process repetitively. It’s difficult to fall short of your goal when you’re having trouble getting the hiring manager’s attention in the first place, or when you’re having difficulty closing the deal and getting the offer.
It could be even more difficult if you are not chosen for a second interview, even if you believe you performed well the first time.
Pro Tip: The best part is that there’s probably something you can do to improve your results if your job search consistently fails at the same stage.
You might be able to determine what you’re doing incorrectly and try something else if you’re ready to involve yourself in some self-reflection.
That Job May not be Related to You
However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are several factors apart from your actions that might prevent you from getting a second interview. If you’re just getting started with your job hunt and you’ve had a few initial interviews that didn’t result in follow-ups, don’t assume that you’re the issue.
The Employer’s Needs Might Be Varying
Changes are frequently made by businesses. They reduced their spending. They allocate funds among various functions. Teams are moved to the new sites, and positions are transferred to new teams. These changes can occasionally take place in the middle of your interview.
The recruiting manager or HR professional will typically apologize and let you know that their requirements have changed in this situation. That may sound like “It’s not you, it’s me,” but there are occasions when it’s the truth. A job that doesn’t exist anymore cannot be obtained.
You Might Not Be A Good Cultural Fit
When it comes to hiring, culture fit matters almost as much as a skill set. Even the most talented employee won’t be as effective in an environment that doesn’t suit them.
This was once referred to as “trying to write with your non-dominant hand” by a recruiter. Working remotely won’t be enjoyable for you if you enjoy interacting with people and working with groups in person. A huge open office with benefits and parties will feel like setting up shop amid Grand Central Station if you’re an introvert who prefers to work alone.
There’s nothing wrong with you if the hiring manager suspects you won’t be happy working there. They may have done you a massive favor by allowing you to move on to a more convenient and successful environment.
The Hiring Manager Might Be Thinking of Somebody Else
This is the cruelest of all, but it tends to happen: often when the hiring manager is given the authority to hire the right external applicants, but they prefer an internal candidate… and they know exactly which one they want. Within this particular instance, even if you are the most experienced candidate in the world, you will not be hired.
Other Reasons : That You Can Control
- You fumbled the interview session
You greeted the recruiting manager incorrectly. It was obvious that you didn’t know anything about the business. You were unable to respond to other common interview questions or explain why you were interested in the position. You were impolite or you were late.
There are many ways to mess up an interview, and although you may occasionally make up for it in the follow-up, sometimes it’s just too late. When that occurs, take a lesson from it and try again later. Also, don’t be too hard on yourself; unsuccessful interviews happen to everyone. - You failed to use the proper tale.
Prepare your elevator pitch and a few concise, engaging stories on how your skills and qualifications match their expectations before you enter company headquarters. (Evaluating the job requirements and ads might be very helpful.)
This will not imply that you should wait to start your speech throughout the interview. Just be prepared to discuss your achievements in a way that will appeal to the hiring committee. People are story lovers.
You’ll have an edge over the competitors if you can tell the real one. It’s essential to pay attention to the right things when constructing your narrative. Your strong leadership abilities, for instance, can backfire if your employer isn’t hiring managers or doesn’t want to hire somebody they fear would leave for a management position. Pay close attention to the job description’s requirements and draw attention to your relevant work experience. - You missed sending a thank-you letter
Don’t assume that thank-you notes are obsolete; they have likely been a part of the job-search procedure since writing was invented. As per a Top Resume survey, 68% of recruiters and hiring managers said getting a thank-you note impacted their choice of whether to hire a candidate.
Within 24 hours of your interview, send an email thank-you note. Make sure to highlight your skills and qualifications for the job, as well as express your appreciation for the interview. Proofread your note and double-check personal and business name spellings. - You failed to follow instructions
It is essential to follow instructions at all times during the interview process. Send the requested materials (e.g., curriculum vitae, cover letter, portfolio, etc.) in the specified file formats. Following up after an interview, make sure to follow the hiring manager’s lead. For example, if they say they’ll be interviewing candidates within the next two weeks, send your gratitude note right away but wait to follow up until their method is likely accomplished. - You were far too insistent
Following it up after a job interview is challenging. You should express your gratitude and interest in the job, but you don’t want to appear stalking the hiring manager. If you’ve sent a thank-you note and a follow-up email and haven’t received a response, it might be best to let it go. Nobody wants to work with someone who is never satisfied. - Your social media is far too open
A CareerBuilder poll revealed that 57% of employers have rejected a candidate after learning something about them online. You could be damaging your job search if your social media accounts include anything that potential employers would find offensive, such as swimsuit images, partying shots, or political opinions. The recommended approach is to lock down your profiles so that hiring managers may only see content that is appropriate for the workplace.
Important: However, avoid deleting your accounts. In the same survey, 47% of employers said they were hesitant to hire an applicant they couldn’t find online.
Your references include somebody who doesn’t support you.
Before asking for references, ensure that the people you are asking are aware of your work and will undoubtedly be able to speak well of you. Before giving out their contact information, always confirm that any possible references are able and willing to speak positively about you. You should also go over the specifics of the position with them so they are aware of what the hiring manager is looking for.
You can always try asking hiring managers or the staffing agency why they are passing on your application if you’re still unsure of the impression your references are giving prospective employers. Respectfully avoid putting words in their mouths and be ambiguous; don’t demand a thorough justification. But don’t be afraid to inquire as to whether they passed for any particular reason.
Put it in the form of an appeal for criticism (i.e., “I’m constantly trying to improve. If you have any feedback regarding my application or the interview process, please let me know. After that, express your gratitude for their time and continue.
