Navigating the Amazon Hiring Process: Misunderstandings and the Path to Reconsideration

Being in the hiring process can often be a frustrating game of wait and see. One common point of confusion is why a status on your Amazon application can change from “under consideration” to “application submitted” after a phone interview. This article aims to unravel the mystery and provide clarity on what this shift might signify, and how candidates can move forward.

Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are software tools used by organizations to manage the recruitment process. Amazon, like many other companies, uses an ATS to streamline the hiring procedure. When you submit your application, it goes through an automated system that screens resumes based on specific criteria. Sometimes, it may seem like the system has taken over your application status, leading to unexpected changes in your status.

Why the Status Change?

Changes in your application status can occur due to several reasons. One possible explanation is that after the phone interview, the interviewer may have concluded that you are no longer a fit for the role. This can prompt the system to move your application to a “not for consideration” status. However, it's essential to note that these systems can be complex, and sometimes a change in status can be the result of human intervention or automation issues within the ATS itself.

Post-Interview Reflections

The phone interview with Amazon can be a mix of frustration and confusion. Many candidates report feeling as though they are being evaluated by a group of personality-deficient interviewers. Common complaints include:

The interviewers appear to be typing faster than the candidates can speak. The interviewers rarely engage with the candidate during the conversation. The final interviewer, often a manager, may seem overly formal and procedural.

These scenarios can leave candidates questioning the effectiveness of the hiring process and wondering if their time was wasted.

The Emotional and Subjective Nature of Hiring

Hiring decisions are often made on an emotional and subjective level, rather than based on hard data. This can lead to inconsistencies and biases in the hiring process. According to Gary Vaynerchuk, Hiring is guessing. Firing is knowing. This quote highlights the limited predictability and the subjective nature of hiring decisions.

The involvement of humans in the hiring process often introduces these elements of subjectivity. Emotions, personal preferences, and biases can influence final decisions. Bezos himself has acknowledged the lack of a scientific approach to hiring at Amazon, indicating that subjective factors play a significant role.

What to Do Now?

Despite the frustration, it's crucial not to take the change in your application status personally. Many hiring processes, including those at Amazon, are based on guesswork and can be influenced by various factors. Here are some steps you can take:

Review your application and prepare for possible feedback. Consider seeking feedback from previous interviews or networking contacts. Prepare to pivot and apply for other opportunities while moving forward.

Remember, sometimes landing an interview at a company like Amazon can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to prove yourself elsewhere. As one former candidate put it, “You're too good for Amazon.”

Stay positive and continue to pursue your career goals. The assessment could be based on a number of factors, and it's always possible to re-apply or find other opportunities that align more closely with your skillset and aspirations.