NTR: Should I consider it a lost cause?

mstopka

How long after you send out a resume should you assume that the employer will not call you? I am job-hunting and have sent out my resume to a few places, but I don't know when I should consider it a lost cause for that particular position. Does it usually take a long time for employers to fill positions? I have been fortunate enough to have jobs fall in my lap, so the job-hunting experience is new to me. Any help and advice is appreciated. Thanks!

YAY! Baby K

When i was job hunting, i called the employer 2-3 days after i applied and sent in my resume. Its really your job to keep up with them and know their timeline. It shows them that you are still interested and really want the job

jennybeams

My rule is to do a follow up call 1 week from the day you mailed the resume. Confirm that they have recieved your application and ask how far along they are in the hiring process.  Sometimes they'll tell you they've filled the job, and sometimes they'll tell you they aren't even reviewing the applicants for another few weeks.  It varies greatly, but at least you'll know if they recieved your application to be considered.

ella.mabel

I'm an HR person. I'd say that if you haven't heard anything for 2 months, you can consider it a lost cause.  Also, if you follow up, i'd recommend email.  I loathe getting calls from applicants.  It's not unheard of for us to get 300 applicants for a posting.

My advice would be to really put a lot of work into your cover letter.  It's always obvious when someone is using a generic cover letter.  Look at the job summary and qualifications that were in the job posting and speak specifically to those things in your cover letter.  (Maybe you already do that, but it's just my 2 cents).

Good luck!!