ER--Unusually long reference checks post-superday

Reposting this in the IB forum so it gets more traction.


Hello chimps. I had a superday with a large MM firm for an ER role 9 days ago. The morning of the day after (less than 20 hours after the superday), HR sends me an email saying the team reviewed my performance on the superday positively, with a link to a compliance form that asked me to enter my social security number and fill out some other info about my background (education & experience), in addition to 2 professional references. I complete the form and put down both references the same day. 

Fast forward 8 days, the references have yet to be contacted. For added context, this firm did take up to 7 days before to schedule interviews (very busy group at this particular point in time, too doxxable if I get into specifics). Hiring could be very low priority for them, but I'd imagine that they'd want to get back to candidates they liked quickly post-superday. 

I'm beginning to fear that they're just keeping me on ice while they interview other people and/or wait for their preferred candidates to make a final decision. What's keeping me from jumping to that conclusion, though, is how quickly they got back to me post-superday for references.

Would appreciate any insights

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's not uncommon for firms to have delays in their hiring processes, even after positive feedback post-superday. Here are some key insights to consider:

  1. Quick Feedback Post-Superday: The fact that HR reached out less than 20 hours after your superday with positive feedback and requested compliance forms and references is a strong indicator that you're a serious candidate. Firms typically don't invest time in this step unless they're genuinely interested.

  2. Delays in Reference Checks: Delays in contacting references can happen for several reasons:

    • Internal Priorities: As you mentioned, the group is very busy, and hiring might not be their top priority at the moment.
    • Batch Processing: Some firms prefer to complete all interviews and evaluate candidates in batches before moving forward with reference checks.
    • Preferred Candidate Decisions: While it's possible they're waiting on decisions from other candidates, the quick post-superday response suggests you're not just a backup option.
  3. Reference Checks Timing: In some cases, reference checks are conducted closer to the offer stage or even after an informal offer is extended. This could explain the delay.

  4. Next Steps: If you're feeling anxious about the timeline, consider sending a polite follow-up email to HR. You could frame it as checking in to see if they need any additional information from your side. This shows initiative without coming across as pushy.

Remember, hiring processes can vary widely between firms, and delays don't necessarily mean bad news. Stay patient and professional while continuing to explore other opportunities. Good luck!

Sources: Oncycle PE Reference Checks, FT recruiting timeline London, Why can't I even get any interviews?, Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., Recruitment Set Back To "Normal"

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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