Here’s the scenario…

A TZ recruiter calls you to see if you’d be interested in a certain job opportunity.  The more you learn about the job, the more you feel that it’s the PERFECT next step for you.  You ask us to immediately submit your resume to the agency and you email me a cover letter, writing samples and 5 references before we even hang up the phone.  A few days later, the agency tells us they want to meet with you.  The interview goes tremendously well and it seems that it’s going to be an excellent match.  And then comes the least enjoyable part of the interview process… the wait for feedback.  Sometimes it takes few days.  Sometimes its a few weeks.  It can even be longer. 

Agencies often have quite a lengthy process when it comes to making a hiring decision.  They have to get the “thumbs up” from every person you met with, they must make sure that your salary is within budget and they have to be certain that you’re a good fit for the client.  This usually takes more time than you, or I, would like.  I have two simple words of advice for you on how to handle this situation: BE PATIENT.  Oh, and don’t be a stalker… meaning don’t harass your recruiter or, more importantly, your potential future employer. It doesn’t matter how badly you want the job.

After an interview, it’s definitely in your best interest to send thank you notes or emails to let the agency know that you’re very excited about the opportunity.   After that, the ball is in their court.  Nothing more can be done.  The biggest mistake that you can possibly make is to pull out the old stalking techniques that you mastered in high school when you really liked that cute boy in math class.  I don’t know one Account Director or Creative Director that looks favorably upon candidates that flood their voicemail or email inbox.  I know even fewer hiring managers that enjoy when a candidate “stops by” the agency unannounced.  No, I’m not kidding.  It’s happened before.  Remember that there is a very fine line between persistence and annoyance.  You don’t want to be the one to walk it.

I know that the waiting game is not fun, but I would recommend discovering new outlets to calm your anxiety and curb your desire to stalk.  Perhaps you could take up a new hobby like bird watching or even stamp collecting.  Maybe you should forward those lame good luck emails to friends every time you feel the need to click “send.”  You can even call the movie hotline whenever you really want to dial a phone.  Okay, I’m kidding.  But whatever you do, please control your urge to become a total pain.  If you don’t, you might wind up with a restraining order instead of a great new job.   

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