What to say in the follow-up phone call? (Job-related)

[Sauron]

So I've applied for a job with a local university. Based on the online description, this job is absolutely perfect for me, and I'm perfect for it.

However, this university is notorious for moving SLOOOOOWLY on hiring stuff. They had the job listed on their Web site for four months before taking it down. The hiring manager (actually a VP at the university) has been out for the past several weeks on medical leave. She's supposed to return in early April. I've got a contact in the office who will notify me when the VP returns, and who is going to recommend me for the position.

My plan is to call the VP a few days after she returns to the office, to further express my interest in the job and see where they are in the hiring process. What exactly do I say? "Hey, I'm really interested in the job -- you gonna interview me, or what?"

I REALLY want this job.

[ivylass]

Who did you interview with?

[Aries28]

You already know this but...I think you should let it go. You can't force it and you've made several attempts to follow up and let them know you are interested.

You have the contact there...maybe just follow up with her in a couple weeks and see if she has heard any inside news on the VP or the position?

And again, it may be one of those things they have no intention of filling any time soon but they have to post it for legal reasons or university politics.

It will work out one way or another.

[Rick]

Try something along this line, which has worked for me a few times.
"Hi _______ this is Sauron. I sent you my resume for the opening in the _____ department.
I am calling to follow up and see if there are any questions I can answer for you."
(listen to response, answer any questions) then:
"When do you anticipate you will be conducting interviews?" (if not already answered)
Finally end up with:
"When should I check back with you?"
Or if you want to be more assertive:
"I will check back with you in a week" (2 weeks, month, on the 21st whatever)

Keep the call short and to the point.

[Sauron]

Originally Posted by ivylass

Who did you interview with?

Haven't interviewed yet ... that's what I'm trying to do. As far as I know, they've already got the person picked out they want to hire, but they haven't moved on it yet.

Rick, good suggestions. Thanks!