Is "We'll Let You Know" a Polite Rejection? Seeking HR Insights on My Dream Job Interview

I am based out of Tokyo. I work for a startup as a software developer in the telecom domain, with a skill set in C/C++, Python, Ruby, etc. I decided to give my career a diversion by joining a Web full-stack development position. So, I was interviewed for this successful startup that provides brilliant web services and APIs. Their first round was a set of programming exercises, which I did quite successfully.

Later, I was invited for an interview with the CTO and the Chief Architect. In the interview, they confirmed my basic programming skills in Python, and I expressed my interest in joining them as a full-stack web development engineer. I also told them that I am fully aware that I am currently a System Developer, working very closely with C/C++, but I would like to be a web developer. I thought that the interview went averagely.

Later, they reverted back to me saying:

- The position is quite competitive.
- It might take them a few weeks to decide.
- They will let me know in one month.

Question to HR Experts

My question to all the HR experts is, is this an "indirect" no? If yes, then why did they not frankly say so upfront? Or, what chances do you think I hold for the offer? I need to decide as I would consider interviewing for other positions as well, although this one is a dream position.

This is quite similar to some earlier threads discussed. You could have used the Research facility at the top of this page. Please find below the links:

https://www.citehr.com/461948-delay-...ggestions.html

https://www.citehr.com/461564-offer-letter-delay.html

I am sure you will find answers to your queries and help you to decide accordingly. All the Best.

Regards,
TS

I disagree, and I want to let you know that I did my research. In the posts you have cited, the person has made it clear that he/she has cleared all the rounds, and hence they are expecting the "offer letter"! In my case, they have not yet made it clear if I have cleared the interview rounds; rather, they have just told me that the position is "competitive," and it might take them some time to decide.

So, reiterating shortly, people who have posted those discussions already know that they have been selected, whereas I am stuck in the corporate language terminology and struggling to ascertain if my candidature holds any weight. Them saying that the position is "competitive," does it imply that I am not competitive enough in my candidature?

Hello Amar.akshat, Except that the 'language' is different, the essence of the HR feedback in your case and the threads mentioned is the same - what you have been given to understand COULD be true OR they are politely saying NO. In fact, BOTH COULD be TRUTHFUL POSSIBILITIES - but how does one make a 100% judgment call on it? Either way, I guess it's wiser to look for other opportunities - since you can only make 'surmises' of what the HR meant, irrespective of the wordings they used.

All the Best.

Regards, TS

I tend to agree with you here, although I would like to state that the person who got back to me was really the CTO. They don't have human resource staff out there, as I said, it's a startup. I still think that you do not fully understand my condition. In other posts, the HR team has got a "go-ahead" from the technical staff and is in the process of preparing the offer letter. In my case, the Tech team is unsure, and they don't have an HR.

However, your suggestion is valuable to me. So thanks! 

Also, is there a way you could edit your posts to remove my username from there? I really want to be anonymous!

As TS has mentioned, the "language" in Japan is significantly different. Having worked with some companies in Japan, I can attest that their entire business and workplace culture are markedly distinct, as you probably already know. Every action is rooted in etiquette and politeness, whether it's presenting your business card or enjoying a cup of tea!

Despite this, the Japanese are exceptionally honest... in a courteous manner. When they describe a position as competitive, it indicates a high volume of applications and that there are better-suited or more qualified candidates. If they suggest it may take a few weeks to make a decision, it suggests they are still open to receiving applications.

When they mention they will provide an update in a month, it could mean the position has been offered to someone else who hasn't accepted yet, or that the verification process is ongoing. If the chosen candidate encounters any issues, they will reach out to you. Japanese individuals tend to keep all possibilities open until the last moment, expecting candidates to continue exploring other opportunities as a month is a substantial timeframe.

In essence, my friend, the Japanese struggle to outright say NO as they prioritize politeness. I trust the information above proves useful.

Best of luck in your pursuit of your dream job; I extend my well wishes to you.

Regards,
Harsh