How To Handle A Potential Job Opportunity That Never Calls Back?

[Cheese96]

Hey every one. I know that I'm sort of appearing out of the blue but I've hit a small snag in my life that I'm not exactly sure how to deal with. I'm about to experience my second job as a teen (this time in retail instead of fastfood, yay!). They have already told me they are hiring me but the only problem is they never call me. I probably wouldn't even have this job if I hadn't called them at least 8 times. They told me they would call me back whenever they set up an orientation and that was a week ago. I am really impatient and I really need this job. I am not exactly sure how to handle thiis situation and any help will be appreciated. Thanks!

[Acting Like Godot]

You call them and ask politely.

[Cheese96]

I feel like I'm constantly bugging them - which, in a way, I am. A better question is how do you call and ask politley after they already told you they will give you a call? Or can I just assume that I am dealing with people who are busy and cthat I should call as freely as I please?

[Perspective]

The squeeky wheel, generally, gets the oil. So, I'd say usually, its better to be proactive, rather than waiting around to hear from them. Of course, you don't want to call every day. I'd suggest sending them a follow up letter (or email) - check with the receptionist or secretary what they prefer, who to adress it to etc.
For example:

= =

Dear .....,
Thank you for the opportunity to discuss how I would match with .... (the company's name) on (date) for the position of (name it). I was particularly impressed that (the company's name) is... (list how you were impressed). I am excited to show how I can be an asset to (the company's name) by (list your assets/abilities, education).

I look forward to discussing more with you.
Sincerely,
... (your name, phone, adress, email)

= =

Work hard & smart & things will happen! I hope the best for you!
I just reread & realized your a teen. Well, this still could help... maybe a little too formal.
Maybe check with someone who works there, see if they could put in a good word for you.

[SatvikBeri]

Originally Posted by Cheese96

I feel like I'm constantly bugging them - which, in a way, I am. A better question is how do you call and ask politley after they already told you they will give you a call? Or can I just assume that I am dealing with people who are busy and cthat I should call as freely as I please?

It is usually more polite to call these people frequently. You free them from the burden of having to remember to call everyone, schedule appointments, etc. by just making the call yourself.

[Clint Cora]

If they already said that they will hire you, then you have the right to keep following up and ask for their estimates of timing. However, if it makes you feel more secure, I would keep looking elsewhere just in case this one falls through for whatever reason. And if you do get another offer that is more immediate and a sure thing, you can have your pick. If the first place has not really made you a definite offer, then it's your right to go elsewhere to accept another one that is definite.

[SnerpGoodWord]

Originally Posted by SatvikBeri

It is usually more polite to call these people frequently. You free them from the burden of having to remember to call everyone, schedule appointments, etc. by just making the call yourself.

This is correct.

If a company has agreed to hire you, you have a reasonable expectation that you will be given a start date. It's perfectly reasonable to call to determine what that is, and if they can't give you one to request an explanation of what will have to happen before they give you one.