Ever heard that familiar phrase, "we'll get back to you" from recruiters after a job interview?
At first, it feels hopeful, especially if you think the interview went well. But then, when a week or two of silence follows, it begins to feel unsettling. You're left wondering: what does this phrase truly mean, and what's the best way to react?
Hearing this can often leave us questioning every part of the interview. Did I read the recruiter's body language correctly? Was their smile at the end a positive sign? Should I have sent a thank-you note right after the interview?
One simple solution to ease these concerns is to send a short thank-you message right after the interview. In your note, you can ask about their hiring timeline, showing your ongoing interest in the position.
However, we all know that this is easier said than done.
So, what if you could avoid this uncertainty during the interview itself? In this article, we'll guide you on how to do just that.
What does “we’ll get back to you” mean?
Primarily, even though it may feel like a negative sign when you hear these words, that isn't necessarily the case. This vague response doesn't automatically signal rejection.
On the other hand, it also doesn't guarantee that you were selected for the role.
Here's what "we will get back to you" could indicate:
As you can see, there's no cause for alarm, as there is still hope. That is, unless your situation aligns with scenario number 3.
In other words, "we will get back to you" in most cases doesn't symbolize the end of your job prospects. Contrarily, it could be the following step toward securing a job.
Why do employers say they’ll get back to you?
You may be curious as to why this sentence remains popular even though it has become such a notorious (and feared) cliché.
The reason is that the recruitment process in many larger organizations is often lengthy and complex. The final hiring decision doesn't rest solely on the recruiter's judgment.
The HR department must communicate not only with you and other applicants but also with your potential employer to arrive at the outcome of the hiring process.
That's why they provide such an uncertain response — the decision is likely still pending, and the hiring manager needs more time.
So — try to practice patience and understanding.
How can you avoid this answer in the first place?
You can always stay one step ahead of the recruiter by attempting to get a more definite answer from them during the interview itself.
How?
The wisest thing to do is to inquire about the next steps and the decision-making timeline before departing the interview. Make an effort to get a specific date or date range from the interviewer. You can ask directly, "When can I expect to hear back from you?"
This will ease your mind by giving you an idea of when you can anticipate a response. It will also provide you with a timeframe for following up appropriately without being overly persistent.
The best approach to responding to "we'll get back to you"
If you've already completed the interview and received these infamous words, here's what you should do next:
1. Submit a thank-you note
You should always send a thank-you note within 24 hours of your interview.
Why?
2. Remain patient
The most advised course of action is to wait for a minimum of one week.
Bear in mind that a tepid response doesn't always equate to rejection. Accept that some information simply cannot be shared in the early stages of recruiting.
The company has a position to fill, but their timeline is often more relaxed than yours.
You may be the ideal candidate, but the organization might still need to wait to extend an official offer due to final approval or bureaucratic obstacles.
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3. Follow up
If you've been waiting for a response for an extended period, sometimes the best approach is to be brave and proactive. In other words — follow up.
Reach out to the HR department and inform them of your ongoing interest in the position and your eagerness to hear back. Without appearing too distressed, ask about the current status of the role.
But when is it acceptable to do so?
Be prepared to receive no clear answer as they might not be able to address it. However, they may offer a progress update or request additional information from you.
4. Demonstrate commitment — but moderately
Yes, it's vital to follow up and remain on the company's radar. However, don't go overboard!
Feel free to call for a status update, but be consistent with a single communication method. Simultaneously calling, emailing, and texting can send the wrong message and make the recruiter dislike you.
How should you demonstrate an interest in the position then?
5. Don't allow one "we'll get back to you" to ruin your mood
Waiting can be challenging, I know. You're stressed out, feeling down, and uncertain about what might be happening behind the scenes.
However, what may easily happen is that you'll remain fixated on this single position and consequently lack the energy or motivation to continue your further job-seeking. However, that's the worst approach to take.
Don't put a stop to your search. Keep striving and pushing forward. Success doesn't come easily, especially not to those who simply wait for the phone to ring. Remain busy and proactive, keep updating your resume, and one day, the right opportunity will present itself.
Good luck!
