I was told I would recieve a job interview. I didn't. Did I do something wrong?

Question

I was an applicant for a environmental director position for a native american tribe. I have experience in that field and recently earned a masters degree in environmental policy.

Anyway, After my inital application was submitted, I recieved an email stating that they (the tribe)"are looking forward to discussing further" the opportunity with me. I thanked them and waited - nothing.

Two weeks later, I called the tribal office to ask about the status of the position. The office manager told me that "interviews are being scheduled, and - just between you and me - I am looking at your application right now and it looks like they (the tribal adminsitration) are going to offer you an interview. Expect a phone call in the next few days" Again, I waited, again - nothing.

Now (about two weeks later) I find out that the position is filled. I was never contacted. What, if anything, did I do wrong here? What should I have done differently? Or, is this just the way things work?

Answer 1

You did nothing wrong. They chose an applicant they felt more suited. I wouldn't take it personally. The fact they told you they would be scheduling an interview with you and didn't is unprofessional.

Best wishes on your job search.

Answer 2

Hi, I'm in HR. It doesn't sound like you did anything wrong. It sounds like whoever was answering the phone was talking above their knowledge and going to get into trouble pretty soon. The truth is, it's a shame she got your hopes up like, but you can never really know why you aren't being called for an interview. For all you know they had already identified a candidate before you called. Funding for the job could have been pulled, or an internal candidate could have wanted it and they had to give that person more weight. You can't know and it's not likely here that you did anything wrong. Move on, and good luck.

Answer 3

Obviously, you've never worked before.

The email you got was a standard response that everyone that applied got.

Secondly, why would you believe what the office manager, who probably has no idea what's going on and has no decision on who gets the interviews.

Answer 4

you may or may not have done anything wrong, the thing is that they found someone that they feel is better qualified for the position. just keep looking, and be yourself,