The Interviewer Said I Have the Job, But No Offer Has Appeared

Dear Evil HR Lady,

I’m currently unemployed, but I interviewed with a past colleague heading a new company department. I was told after the interview that “they wanted me” and I just had to talk to a couple of other guys. At that interview the guys seemed like they were indifferent. They were preoccupied and knew little about me. After the interview, I was told by HR that I was it and they stopped looking for others. I was also told that although I would start as a Senior Art Director, that would be fast-tracked to Associate Creative Director.

I would be contacted that evening or the next day. Two days later, I finally make contact and things have stalled. They have to assess the skills of ALL of the candidates to determine the right mix. And they thank me for my patience.

They know I am looking at another company and ask me to keep her informed so she can keep the team informed. A couple of days later I get an update that they should know more about next steps this Wednesday. I am wondering are they considering another candidate OR are they considering a restructure of the department to take advantage of getting me or am I not going to get the role due to extenuating circumstances?

What’s the best play?

The Interviewer Said I Have the Job, But No Offer Has Appeared

My MBA Isn't Helping My Career

Dear Evil HR Lady,

About a year ago I finished my MBA. While working on my MBA, I had imagined that there would be plenty of opportunities when I graduated. Unfortunately even with an advanced degree, my two years in finance are not enough to qualify me for advanced positions. My current employer gave me a great retention bonus, yet no raise. Senior management told me that I do an outstanding job, and that they do not want to lose me. My current salary is only a couple of thousand dollars more than when I started with the company and is significantly less than what my current position was advertised for.

I get the bonus in December and am not sure that they are going to offer me the salary I have in mind. I am wondering if you can give me some tips for negotiating. Also should I be looking at other jobs so that I have firm counter offers to come back to them with? My student loans are all due and I cannot afford to pay those and pay all of my other monthly bills like my mortgage and car payment.

My MBA Isn't Helping My Career

Don't Let Your Mom Find You a Job

You're dying to help your loved one get a job. You'll do anything. Just stop it. They've got to manage the job on their own, so let them manage the job search.

Don't Let Your Mom Find You a Job

I’m Doing a Bad Job. Can I Still Get a Raise?

So, you're not a stellar performer. In fact, you think your performance is mediocre. But, you are still underpaid. Is there a chance for a raise anyway?

I’m Doing a Bad Job. Can I Still Get a Raise?

How To Explain That You Were Fired

I just read the best interview advice for explaining a firing in your past. I wish I could say that I had written it, but alas, I didn't.

It's from Alison Green, also known as Ask a Manager:

In a Job Interview, How to Explain You Were Fired

Seriously, people, if you've ever been fired, read this.

Want the American Dream? Don't Go to College

In order to be "successful" you must go to college--and when times get tough, go back and get that MBA or Law Degree, right? Maybe there's another path to the American dream.

Want the American Dream? Don't Go to College

Title Bait and Switch

Suddenly, the job you're interviewing for gets a lesser title. Was this a classic bait and switch, or do you not have the experience needed?

Title Bait and Switch