How long does it take to hear back after an interview, and how should you manage the wait?

The job search process can be frustrating, but it's not half as frustrating as wondering how you did after an interview. No matter how well you aced that interview, you can often find yourself waiting for days to find out whether you made the cut. 

Many job seekers may even find themselves tempted to reach out to the interviewer to get a quicker response – but that could give them the impression that you're desperate for the job. Still, how long should it take to hear back after your interview?

In this article, we'll examine the entire job process, from job posting to interview. We'll also offer some estimates for how long it takes to hear back after a job interview, provide some advice to help you know when to follow up with the employer, and explain some common reasons for any delayed response.

Related reading: 20 Hard Interview Questions and Answers

The hiring process, from start to finish

While it may sometimes seem like an eternity passes while you're waiting to hear back from a job interview, it's important to put things into perspective. Just consider the steps involved in most companies' hiring process:

  • The employer begins by advertising some form of job posting to let potential applicants know that the company has an open position.

  • Depending on the size of the company, hiring managers may receive anywhere from a few dozen to hundreds or even thousands of resumes and applications. Those that are not rejected by applicant tracking systems need to be reviewed by those hiring managers.

  • That review helps the employer narrow the list of candidates to those the company deems worthy of an interview.

  • The employer then conducts interviews – sometimes multiple interviews – to find the best candidate for the position.

  • The employer's hiring team then reviews the interview results to make their final hiring decision.

Obviously, that all takes time – and the more candidates the company interviews, the longer it can take to receive that final decision. Still, the question remains: How long should it take to hear back after your interview?

Related reading: How to Answer, “What Can You Bring to the Company?”

How long to hear back after the interview: Typical waiting time

In most instances, you can usually expect to hear back from the hiring company or HR department within one or two weeks after the interview – but the wait time can vary from industry to industry and company to company. The important thing is to focus on doing the best job that you can in your interview so you effectively convey your value as a prospective employee.

You should also decide how you want to handle that wait. 

  • Do you want to give yourself a timeline of about a week after the interview before you apply for other jobs? 

  • Should you keep submitting applications until you've secured a suitable job offer? 

Ultimately, those are questions that only you can answer – based on your circumstances and the industry you're in. However, most experts – including ours – recommend you continue your job search while you wait.

Related reading: Crafting a Compelling Response to Why This Position Appeals to You

When is the best time to follow up?

You should send a thank you email to the interviewer within a day or two after the interview. This email will not only express your appreciation but will also provide an opportunity to show your enthusiasm, reiterate your qualifications, and mention any critical details you might have missed during the interview.

Then, the waiting game begins. As a rule of thumb, you're advised to wait 10 to 14 days before following up. It's common to wait for a few weeks before hearing back from your interviewer. Calling too often can make you look needy or even desperate. Again, be patient and let the hiring team do their job. Eventually, you'll get a response.

Related reading: 15 Signs an Offer Is Coming After Your Interview

Why haven't you heard back from an interview yet?

Sometimes, it's easier to patiently wait to hear back from a job interview if you understand some of the possible reasons why it's taking so long. There are many different factors that can hasten or slow the interview and hiring decision process. 

For example:

  • The company received a large volume of resumes and is still busy interviewing dozens or even hundreds of other candidates. If you were near the front of the interview line, you'll have to wait a while for the response you're seeking.

  • The hiring process was interrupted or slowed by some unforeseen challenge.

  • The competition is fiercer than expected, and the company is carefully considering its options.

  • Necessary background checks are still being conducted, or the company needs more time to get in touch with your references.

Related reading: Crafting Your Answer to 'What Motivates You?”

Try not to focus on how long it takes to hear back after an interview

When it comes to waiting after an interview, keep in mind that the hiring process can be complex and often requires input and approval from many people before a decision can be made. Rather than worrying about how long it takes to hear back after an interview, focus on delivering the most compelling presentation during that part of your job search. If your follow-up efforts don't get the results you need, move on gracefully and explore other opportunities.

Not hearing back from your job interviews? Let one of our TopInterview coaches and career experts help you out!

This article was originally written by Iswari Nallisamy. It has been updated by Ken Chase.

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