Update - to the neverending job interview (job offer, unemployed, jobs)

[greasycheeseburgers]

Backstory - District Management Position with a large top 100 retail company, interviewed originally in June, 1.5 hour phone interview with HR, 60 min assessment online, 45 min phone interview with vp, drove 2.5 hours one way for an afternoon interview with vp, then drove 2.5 hours one way for an entire ride along day, then another 45 min phone interview with another vp, another 60 min online assessment, then drove 3 hours one way for a lunch meeting with the other vp last week.

Ok. So they called me yesterday and offered me a job, wait for it ....
In Feb 2010. I started interviews in June 09.
Thats when their expansion is, and unless someone gets fired in the meantime those are the first openings they will have. I talked to my dad whose in the grocery business at a company doing really, really, really, well - and he said they had 10 open positions and decided to hold off until the new fiscal year - Feb 2010.

[antiquesmountainapache]

This would make me throw my hands up in the air. What are the chances of someone else grabbing the position at the last minute? Also, look at the time and expense. These extended "dog and pony shows" hurt when an individual has been unemployed for a long time. Hopefully, the issue does give us a small glimmer of hope. I received an email regarding a position that would open in February this week. However, February is a long time off.

[7 Wishes]

Unfortunately, companies can get away with that crap in this economy, it's all supply and demand. But perhaps it's a sign we'll see more hiring as improving companies start new fiscal years and budgets.

[cityhopper]

First, OP, congrats on the job offer!!!!!

As far as the start date, I cannot say I am surprised. I have seen tons of jobs either pull or cancel open positions over the last few weeks. Many firms that are sales/retail probably even further want to limit additional expenses walking into the fourth quarter as Holiday sales will likely be lukewarm at best.

For those who do not a commitment/job offer by the end of next month, it may be a long, cold winter in the job market.

[1984vt]

Congratulations!

I would continue to look in the interim. You never know as the other poster stated, someone could swoop in and snag the job. I also would continue to keep in touch with them. Ask if there is anything you could do in the interim to better prepare you for the position etc.