Q:  I’ve been to a couple of interviews where I left feeling convinced I had the job, but then never got the offer.   I can’t describe the disappointment.  The worst part is not knowing the reason.  Why is this happening?

A:  The list of possible reasons for not getting a job is a long one. Sometimes the person interviewing you -the recruiter, the hiring manager- thinks you’re the right candidate, and gives you that impression. You leave feeling confident.   But something may happen afterwards to change that.

Sometimes the reasons are beyond your control, other times the reasons could be within your power to correct.  First, let’s look at those beyond your control. For instance:

• Another candidate was better qualified, or a better fit for the company.
• The position was never filled, either due to budget changes or a reorganization.
• The job went to an internal applicant – they usually have an advantage.
• Or, the candidate selection process is a group decision and the interviewer doesn’t have the final say.  This is the nature of the beast.

Second, let’s look at other possible reasons for not getting the job; these are within your power to mitigate.  Suppose that an employer interviews you and is interested in hiring you.  But, when checking your references, background, or verifying employment, a red flag comes up: Perhaps a weak reference, invalid employment dates, or something objectionable online.

What to do?  Make sure you can count on your references (valid phone numbers, availability, willingness to talk) and that you have no contradicting or conflicting dates on the resume  or anything that could raise questions about your honesty.  If there’s anything iffy about your past that will surface during this phase, disclose it upfront.  Leave no surprises.  Also, research and scour your name on the Internet and if you’re not comfortable with your social media presence and online record, take steps to correct it.

Lastly, after all the logistics are covered -good resume, strong references, interviewing skills, networking, etc– the job hunt is mostly a test of psychological endurance.  So, don’t allow the disappointments to immobilize you.  Expect them and walk over them.  They are par for the course.