I recently had two interviews with an NYC branch office of a large Midwestern firm. There isn't an ''official'' (as much as I can tell) opening, but it seems to be along the lines of ''we could definitely use another person.'' The interviews went very well, the partner at my interview said she liked me, and when I met with another partner, she was actually doing the ''selling'' of me to the other partner!
The partners have been very communicative (I got a status report a week after the second interview as promised), but then I was told that the interview process will take "a while." Judging from the very quick (second interview was a week after my first interview) response and action, it makes me nervous that I've been told it will take a while. Can you shed some light as to what you think is the situation? I am hoping (ideally) that they've made a decision to make me an offer but are running into the bureaucratic troubles of being a branch office.
Does this happen frequently, and do you know how long it may take (i.e., getting approval for hiring an associate)? Of course, I'm aware that the firm could be interviewing more candidates and I just happened to be the first one in line
For starters, it is not clear whether this firm will actually make a hire at this branch office. Deciding to add to your head count is a very difficult decision for any business. If their workload slows precipitously, the firm stands to lose profits. Similarly, if the firm decides not to make a hire and work increases, the firm will also lose profits.
If the firm is in fact going to make a hire, there are many variables which can influence the timing of the decision. By the time the firm commits to hiring, the key partners are probably already very busy. (That is why they need to hire a new associate.) Maybe one of the key partners is trying to go on vacation.
Another factor to consider is your own sense of time. When you are actively working, a month can go by quickly. When you are unemployed, one day can seem like an eternity. Try not to lose perspective while you are going through this difficult transition. Has it really been that long? It can take two weeks just to schedule someone for an interview (e.g., because of scheduling conflicts).
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