Any update OP? I hope you’ve heard good news. I’ve been following your posts because I’m interviewing for a fed position this week and curious about timelines.

Seems like 1-2 weeks from reference check to offer is standard for federal hiring.

OP here. It's now been a full week since they checked my last reference and no news. Trying to stay patient, but feeling less and less optimistic as time goes on. My fear is I'm the 2nd choice candidate and they are trying to land their first choice. Or, it's just the government and the process is slow.

OP - PP is right. Could be a couple more weeks even if you are the top candidate. Once selection is made we have a few more approvals and HR steps before the applicant is called. Hold tight and fingers crossed for you.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It took about a week for references to offer for me. I just started as a fed last month, and we move really fast for feds. Hang in there.

Op here. Thank you!!! I know they only talked to the final reference on Thursday so there really isn’t any “delay” but I’m just kind of on pins and needles right now!

Depending on the agency and their HR practices, they may now need to submit paperwork to HR and then have HR extend the offer. That can take a few days or up to two weeks (a recent experience I had as a hiring manager). Hoping for you that you hear soon!

Hi OP, here's my recent timeline. Interviewed first week of April, references checked within 2 days of interview, and I got a conditional offer this week. You have great chances, good luck!

Anonymous wrote:It took about a week for references to offer for me. I just started as a fed last month, and we move really fast for feds. Hang in there.

Op here. Thank you!!! I know they only talked to the final reference on Thursday so there really isn’t any “delay” but I’m just kind of on pins and needles right now!

They're going to check the top 2 or 3 candidates.

It took about a week for references to offer for me. I just started as a fed last month, and we move really fast for feds. Hang in there.

Op here. The waiting is SO HARD. I haven’t heard anything further. I really want and need this job and I’m scared I’m the 2nd choice.

Anonymous wrote:I only check one persons references.

We actually check after offer. So only one.

It’s a good sign, OP, but please stay cool and don’t count your chickens before they hatch! There will be plenty of time to celebrate after. Good luck!

Our office checks references of everyone moving forward after the first round (from the hiring committee phase), which is often a large group. I don't like it because it gives people false hope

It absolutely depends. Offices I have worked for check the top 3 so that the big boss can interview 2-3 and choose between them.

I'm a fed...I have to check references on my top candidates. For this current round, that means top 2 or 3.

Anonymous wrote:Op here. Thank you for the replies!! No word yet but we all know federal hiring processes tend to move slow. I am hopeful but don’t necessarily think I’ve got it, since I could be one of two final candidates or even one of three.

Thanks again for being excited for me!!!!!!

Yeah, don't hold your breath, but it is a very, very good sign.