Things do indeed happen at the last minute. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and take advantage of the opportunity that has been presented. Resiliency is required during these months or years of uncertainty. While this can produce untold anxiety, try to maintain some sense of equilibrium by setting time aside for relaxation, pleasure and non-academic pursuits. Avoid the blame game .
Jobs go to people for a variety of different reasons.
In fact, while employment figures for female candidates are slightly higher than for those of men, it is clear that men continue to form a very substantial portion of recent hires. Ultimately, obsessions with and gripes about affirmative action are counterproductive, potentially dangerous and ultimately divisive, I think, for the profession. The notion of community that to me seems so necessary to getting by as a scholar and teacher in these difficult times is severely challenged by excessive competition, back-stabbing and witty barbs. As finalists for the same position on a number of occasions, we've been able to share stories about on-campus interviews, compare notes on the job market, and have a good laugh about the eccentricities of particular search committees. In the process, we've also taken time to congratulate each other on successes, share advice, and develop a good professional friendship.