Someone Explain This

I have been job hunting lately and today I filled out an application at a large company in the area. The application was lightweight asking for only my personal information and last 5 employers. As I handed it to the HR receptionist she said "Allow us several weeks to process it." I was dumbstruck. SEVERAL WEEKS!! There are only 5 phone numbers to call and background checks don't take but a few days. In several weeks I intend to have been employed for at least a few weeks. What takes so long? Someone explain this. Anyone? Please?