a manager for experienced hire of a big-4 firm responded my application, with an email saying that he will get back to me shortly...after 3 days, i made i a follow through email and received an automated reply that he is already on a long summer holiday, only to resume work by mid of september.i am now wondering on the relative meaning of "shortly".

hmmm, suck it up, but-plug.

MatUse the delay to get some more options moving - so much the better if you can strengthen your negotiating positon on the return of this manager, and it will also ensure you are not limiting your options.

I went for interview with BAS in April last year, but have never had a call / e-mail / letter from them since then.Am still hoping those tw*ts respond sometime !!

good to have you back Pear. You're the best

Arfur, this is BAS. Afraid that you haven't gotten the job. Terribly sorry to have taken so long to get back to you, old chap, but consider yourself notified. Better luck next time.("She's just not that into you...")