Understanding 'Application Under Review' after a Cognizant Interview

Recently, I attended an interview with Cognizant and managed to clear the HR round. For the final round, we discussed my salary expectations. Last week, I received a notification that my application is under review. This can be a confusing and nerve-wracking message, but here’s what it likely means and what you should consider.

What Does 'Application Under Review' Mean?

The term 'application under review' is a generic statement indicating that the company has not yet made a hiring decision on the position you applied for. It often means they are still evaluating your candidacy. In some cases, you may not receive a final decision, even if the application process has progressed to this stage.

Reasons Behind the Review Process

There are several reasons why the hiring team might still be considering your application:

Hiring Team Leaves: A member of the hiring team might have taken leave unexpectedly, delaying the decision-making process. Salary Negotiations: You might be asking for more money than they anticipated, and they are still trying to negotiate a fair rate. Comparison with Other Candidates: Other candidates with similar experiences might be under review, and they are evaluating all options. Internal Discussions: The team might be having internal discussions about the role requirements and how you fit the position compared to other candidates.

Considering these factors, it might be advantageous to follow the advice of the 'leave them alone' school, which suggests stopping your pursuit and moving on. While following up can sometimes dilute your energy, it's important not to let it consume you or prevent you from pursuing other opportunities.

Steps to Take During the Review Period

During the application review period, you might be facing various situations, such as:

Background Checks: The company may be verifying your references, employment history, or any educational qualifications. Final Assessments: They might be reviewing your interview performance in conjunction with other candidates. Approval Process: Your application may need approval from higher management or other departments before an offer can be made. Internal Discussions: The hiring team may be discussing the role requirements and how you fit them compared to other candidates.

It’s important to be patient during this stage. If you haven't heard back within a week or two, it’s perfectly acceptable to follow up for an update. However, be mindful of how much follow-up is appropriate to avoid coming off as too persistent.

Adjusting Expectations and Moving Forward

The delay in the hiring process can be frustrating, but it can also provide you with time to reassess your expectations and move forward with other job opportunities. If it turns out that Cognizant is not interested in offering you the position, it’s important to reflect on the feedback and learn from the experience.

Ultimately, the 'application under review' message is just a delayed decision. It doesn't necessarily mean that you were passed over or that the role won't eventually be offered to you. Patience and persistence are key during this process, but remember to keep exploring other opportunities as you wait for a final decision.