I once applied for a nonprofit job I really wanted. After 6 weeks I thought "no harm in following up and asking for feedback on my application ". I went to email them and they had emailed me 5 mins earlier offering me the job!" Good luck!

For a fed job it an take 2 months!

OP here, thanks all. I will provide an update as soon as I hear back.

I've made a job offer to my top candidate three weeks after the interview. Reaching out to references, making the decision and having it approved by my boss all take time, and, depending on the position, sometimes have to take a back seat to other work. And as PP said it is summer which will delay everything. Don't lose hope!

You might be choice #2, in which case they are keeping you on the hook in case #1 declines or doesn't pass the background check. It's better than being #5, in which case they would have told you 'no' by now.

Especially if its government...

Yes, I've gotten offers after 3 months...be patient.

OP, it's summer. I think that kind of changes things. Most employers (even if they love you) will still be sure to interview a certain number of people. I think things like that don't move as fast in the summer.

It's also possible that key people who need to sign off on hiring decisions are out of town on vacation at different times.

I would just hang tight. Don't stop looking for other jobs.

Just remain patient. I don't think 3 weeks is too long; however, it does depend on the type of position. Entry-level positions tend to go more quickly and high-level positions tend to take time. They want to make sure they select the BEST candidate. Entry-levels are normally easier to re-fill.

I interviewed for a job 3 weeks ago and did then thank you emails etc immediately after. They all said they loved me and the hr contact said they would make a decision shortly so I followed up a few days later. After a day she replied that she said they have a few more people to interview, but she will get back to me by the end of the week. It's now Wednesday and coming on 3 weeks since I interviewed. Has anyone gotten an offer more than 3 weeks after interviewing? I always thought that if they liked you, the decision was made quickly. Any insight?