August 9, 2023
Are you tired of submitting your resume to various job boards, updating your LinkedIn profile, and eagerly waiting for a call from recruiters, only to be met with complete silence? Have you experienced the frustration of going through multiple rounds of interviews with a company, only to have the trail go cold without any explanation? You're not alone. Many job seekers face the same predicament: recruiters not getting back to them. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon and what it means for your job search. So, let's uncover the mystery of why recruiters don't call back.
When you share your resume on job boards or update your LinkedIn settings, you might assume that recruiters will reach out to you. However, from the recruiter's perspective, you may not even be in the running because you didn't formally apply for the job. Expressing interest in a position on a social network or verbally asking a recruiter to consider your public profile doesn't count, unless you are a senior professional in your industry. If there's a vacancy advertised, you need to have a record of your application via email, along with a copy of your resume.
Recruitment agencies and hiring managers often find themselves overburdened and disorganized, resulting in applications slipping through the cracks. To avoid falling victim to chance, it's crucial to follow up with the recruiter, hiring manager, or an intermediate reference within two days to confirm the status of your application. This proactive approach ensures that you stay on their radar and increases the chances of receiving a response.
Recruiters often receive an overwhelming number of applications, including many from unqualified candidates. If a position requires specific qualifications, such as a "key accounts manager" or an "MBA in marketing," and you fall short of those requirements, it's unlikely that you'll receive a call back. Recruiters are looking for candidates who closely match the specified qualifications, so make sure to carefully review the job description before applying.
While you may possess the necessary qualifications for a role, there may be additional desired or preferred attributes mentioned in the job description. For example, if the job profile mentions a preference for candidates with experience in e-commerce product companies, but you have a strong software development background, you may not be the best fit. However, if you strongly believe that you are a match despite not meeting all the preferred attributes, consider writing a compelling cover email to present your case alongside your CV.
In today's job market, there are often numerous qualified applicants vying for the same positions. Sometimes, the competition simply has better work experience, a lower salary expectation, or more prestigious brands on their resume. As a result, you may not be shortlisted beyond the resume stage. Recruiters often lack the bandwidth to provide updates to every candidate and may be reluctant to deliver the bad news. Remember, it's not a reflection of your abilities, but rather the intense competition in the job market.
During the initial telephonic conversation with the recruiter or hiring manager, they may have learned something that made you less attractive for the role. It could be related to factors such as your proximity to the workplace, potential conflicts with previous colleagues, or unrealistic salary and benefit expectations. The hiring manager is unlikely to share their true concerns with you, leading to either silence or a standard rejection as a response.
"The hiring manager's loyalty is towards the job vacancy that exists and the employer they serve." - Devashish Chakravarty
Your first conversation may have been with a research associate or a junior talent acquisition executive whose primary responsibility is to map and scope out the market. Based on their findings and the resumes they present, the recruiter may have made a decision not to call you. It's essential to consider the profile of the person you spoke to during that initial conversation to gauge the seriousness of the call and the likelihood of further communication.
If you have previously applied to the same employer, your past application and interview feedback may be taken into consideration when determining whether to contact you for further evaluation. Additionally, if you flood the market with multiple job applications for different roles, a recruitment consultant who comes across your applications may perceive you as not being serious about a specific role. Targeted applications tend to yield better results, as they demonstrate your focus and commitment.
In some cases, recruiters may consider you a great candidate, but not the perfect one for the current opportunity. In such situations, they may choose to "keep you warm" by regularly reaching out to maintain the conversation and excitement, while concurrently searching for their ideal candidate. Given time and the right circumstances, you may be upgraded from a runner-up to the winner. However, if that doesn't happen, rest assured that a better opportunity awaits you elsewhere.
Sometimes, a company's priorities can change midway through the hiring process, resulting in the existing vacancy no longer being available, at least temporarily. The hiring manager may find it challenging to justify the company's shift in direction, considering the time and effort invested by both parties. Consequently, the recruiter may cease communication or provide a standard response when you attempt to follow up.
Now that we've explored the reasons behind recruiters not getting back to you, let's delve into some additional factors to keep in mind during your job search:
Each interaction you have with a hiring manager leaves an impression, which is often documented in an applicant tracking system or the recruiter's own database. Be mindful of the facts, opinions, and preferences you share during these conversations, as they can impact your future applications and how you are perceived by potential employers.
It's crucial to maintain a respectful and professional demeanor throughout your job search. Constantly calling, emailing, or pestering recruiters for updates can be seen as intrusive and may harm your chances of success. Similarly, backing out of committed interviews or repeatedly rescheduling can negatively impact the hiring manager's efficiency and credibility. Recruiters have long memories, so it's essential to treat them with respect throughout the process.
A good recruiter often reaches out to industry professionals without your permission to seek feedback on your qualifications and suitability for a role. Unsolicited reference checks help recruiters mitigate hiring risks. Be aware of the reputation you have built within your industry, as it can greatly influence your prospects during the hiring process.
While recruiters are a valuable resource during your job search, it's important to remember that they are not bound by the same confidentiality standards as physicians or lawyers. The hiring manager's loyalty lies with the job vacancy and the employer they serve. While trust can be built over time, especially when dealing with the same recruiter in a small industry, it's crucial to exercise caution when discussing sensitive matters.
Recruiters often try to be gentle when delivering rejection news. If you receive a response stating that the vacancy is on hold, it's advisable to refrain from excessive follow-ups. Continuously pursuing a position after rejection can signal desperation, which may not work in your favor. Instead, express gratitude for the opportunity and politely request reconnection when the vacancy becomes active again.
Understanding why recruiters don't get back to you is crucial for navigating the job search process. From failing to formalize your application to intense competition and shifting priorities, there are various factors at play. By being proactive, maintaining professionalism, and understanding the intricacies of the recruitment process, you can increase your chances of securing your dream job. Remember, each interaction leaves a lasting impact, so approach your job search with careful consideration and confidence. Your perfect opportunity awaits.
