Shortlisted but can't make interview - advice?

needtowinthelottery

I would be grateful if anyone could give me some advice, perhaps there is an answer within employment law somewhere?

I recently applied for a job. Without wanting to sound corny, it's my dream job. I wasn't proactively looking but when it came up I jumped at the chance.

The only issue was that the closing date for the job (28 February) was a week before I go on a two-week holiday.

So, before I even started filling in the application form, I rang the potential new employer and explained my situation and the dates I am away. They said, in no uncertain terms, that if I made the shortlist I would be offered an interview even if this was on a different date to the rest of the candidates.

On this basis, I then spent a day completing an application.

This afternoon, I received a phone call from the potential new employer to say "there's good news and bad news", explaining that I'd made the shortlist (I'm one of six candidates) but that they are interviewing on Tuesday, while I'm away.

In a nutshell, they're holding interviews and may appoint on Tuesday without even interviewing me.

I explained the phone conversation I'd had before I applied but this made no difference. I've got to wait until I get back (21st) and phone them to find out whether they've appointed or if they've decided to see me.

Does anyone have any advice? I feel so disappointed that I've put a huge amount of effort in to the application and reached the shortlist, to not even be seen by them.

Thanks in advance.

Googlewhacker

when are you of on your hols?

needtowinthelottery

I leave on Sunday (6th) and get back on Monday 21st.

Googlewhacker

Phone them up tomorrow and ask if there is any chance of interviewing later that day as you are very keen. Or look at postpoing when you leave for your holiday untill tue afternoon and ask them to allow you to be first to interview so you can leave that afternoon.

Shows willing by a long way!

ionahenor2

Could you go and see them tomorrow? What sort of job is it?

Superly_Vince

I have nothing to add but I REALLY hope this works out for you and you're able to have an interview. I'll my fingers crossed for you, best of luck!

needtowinthelottery

I can't postpone my holiday, unfortunately. I've had it booked for six months and it's non-refundable non-changable at this stage. If I cancelled I would loose all the money and my travel insurance wouldn't cover a job interview as a reason for cancellation.

I guess my point is that I wouldn't have bothered applying for the job if I'd known they wouldn't be flexible with the interview date. I was specifically told if I made it to the shortlist (which I have) that I would be offered an interview. This hasn't happened so I'm going away not knowing what will happen.

I'm educated to degree level and the job is relevant to my degree - a professional job in the marketing/communications sector.

somethingcorporate

The best thing to do would be to try and get them to interview you before your holiday (and before any of the other candidates).

Good luck! :j

needtowinthelottery

Thank you for all of your comments/advice. I think I'll give them a call in the morning to say how disappointed I would be to miss out on getting an interview and see if they'll see me in the afternoon, even if it's for an informal chat. Would make me feel better, if nothing else!

hcb42

I agree with the advice, pester for an interview before your holiday.

someone did this to me once, even offered to drive me to the airport as I flew 12000 miles home...as they were in danger of missing out otherwise, I found them the time, interviewed them hired them and they went on to great heights in that company and beyond.

Don't look on it as a waste of your time, that is a sunk cost as far as you are concerned if you want to apply for jobs!!!! If it doesnt work out, it doesnt work out.

telboyo

What is more important to you? A 2 week holiday or a job - if this is really your dream job it is no sacrifice to give up a holiday. Ask yourself this question.
"what have I been dreaming of for the last 6 months? My holiday or a new job? " When you know that you will have the answer to your question.

Bear in mind that if you don't like the holiday it will be over in 2 weeks- if you don't like the dream job you may be stuck in it for years to come.