Navigating Job Offer Delays: How Long Should I Wait Before Reaching Out?

I have interviewed for a reputed company (cash-rich) which had Phone Screening, Personality tests, Cognitive Ability Tests, one interview with a Senior Manager, one Interview with a Group Manager, and a Panel Discussion with 3 members in leadership (One Group Manager, One Director, and One VP). All, and truly all, interviewers were extremely impressed with my skills, qualities, achievements, qualifications, and experience. The Director (in the panel interview) went to the extent to mention the following two things:

1. "I was going through your 'Areas of Expertise' in the resume and after interacting with you, I think there are even more areas of expertise that you possess."

2. The last statement that he made was "All I can say is that we are lucky to get you" (I am not employed and was searching for a long time, and this topic was discussed).

Now, the HR representative immediately calls me the next day at 9 am to tell me that the feedback was good, and what were my expectations. Although I told her my previous salary, I wanted them to make me an offer before I mention any particular figure because I know that I have significant leverage based on my experience and interview performance. She called twice and tried to get that information, but I did not budge, and she said she will get back. Also, previously she mentioned that it takes a lot of costs and efforts to get the interviews done (they had flown me in and out of Bangalore), so I think she wanted to ensure that I don't back out.

Now, it's two days after the call, and there is no communication yet from the HR.

Possible Reasons for Delay

There can be a few possibilities which I can think of:

1. Taking time for approvals, etc., to create the offer letter.
2. Are interviewing other candidates.
3. Are deciding what compensation to provide (I don't think they will risk low-balling).
4. Probably busy with other things (the interviews and all happened within a week, so the HR was quick to respond to previous communication).
5. Playing the waiting game to elicit a response and then take advantage of eagerness.

Seeking Advice

Now, the question is, what should I do? Although the company, position, and teammates are great, I do not want to sound eager by communicating early, but I want to reiterate that I am absolutely interested.

How much time should I wait before initiating conversation? Are they checking/testing my interest in the company? Going by the fact that the HR representative played coy by trying to force me to cough up a lower figure, I am not sure how to respond. Although I am completely convinced that the VP and other senior management want me in. And I feel the discussion of salary has not yet started. So, would they back out and risk losing me without even trying and with all the costs they have incurred till now.

Please help.

Thanks,

ND

Interview Process and Offer Letter Timing

To begin with, the speed at which interviews are conducted does not match the timing of offer letters. I assume you know that better than anyone around us.

If they are interviewing others, it should work to your advantage, given the impact you have made. If you have quoted a salary that exceeds their budget, give them time to adjust.

Networking Through Interviews

A suggestion: treat interviews not only as a means to land a role but also as an opportunity to network. Build lasting relationships through these interactions. Connect with the VP and others on LinkedIn and send a thank-you email. If they respond, ask for feedback or share interesting articles related to your discussions.

Maintaining Connections

Regardless of whether you accept the job offer, aim to maintain connections with all the leaders you meet. Keep us informed if they extend the job offer to you by the weekend or at a later time.

Wishing you all the best!

One clarification: I have not stated my salary expectations; I mentioned my previous salary. Based on my experience and interview performance, I do not want my new salary to be determined by my previous salary.

Inquiry About Withholding Salary Expectations

I also wanted to inquire about my right to withhold my salary expectations until I receive an offer from the company. What if they insist that they cannot proceed unless I disclose my salary expectations?

Thank you once again,

Regards,
ND.

The HR representative contacted me two days ago to ask for my salary expectations, which I provided. The HR had promised to get back to me that evening but has not called back in the last two days. The figure I quoted was somewhat high but within acceptable limits, according to my insider research, which provided me with an approximate range. I wanted to avoid being lowballed. The HR did not react negatively or appear shocked by my expectations but mentioned she would discuss it with the business and get back to me. However, she has not responded for two days.

Now, I expect them to return with either a confirmation that the figure is too high or a counteroffer. I am concerned that they might not return and could leave the negotiating table.

Is it possible for companies to abruptly leave the negotiating table if they are interested in a candidate? I asked them to provide a range so I could ensure my expectations were within their limits. However, they insisted I provide my number, which I increased due to the fear of being lowballed.

I have not attempted to call them because I do not want to appear overly eager and lose leverage. How long should I wait? She mentioned that I should state my expectations, and we would see if we could work around them if I provided the expectations.

Please help.

Thanks,

ND.