Never Turn Down an Opportunity That Hasn’t Been Presented Yet
I met somebody recently who asked me about my consulting and when they heard that part of my practice was being a career coach, they mentioned that they were glad that they didn’t need me.
They said they were happy with their job and even had some headhunters recently ask them to consider a new role. When I asked them how those interviews went, they told me that they did not follow up because they weren’t looking to move.
I explained that this was a poor strategy on two different levels:
1. Not knowing what’s being offered, it’s impossible to make a decision. We are not mind readers. Plus, with the confidence of not needing a new role, the desire for you might increase during the interview and the offer can transform for the better before you leave their office. What I mean by that is many organizations want candidates that they can’t get. That could be superstars that are working for their competitors. Since you don’t need a job at this point, you can be considered one of those superstars. Your demeanor during the interview will be anything but desperate, and as long as you are respectful, they will pick up on your confidence.
2. During the interview, you may find out that even though this new role is a good one, it’s not as good as the one you currently have. The value that this process will have on your performance and your self-confidence is greater than you may think. You will appreciate your current role and the value of your organization more than before you took the interview. Plus, by creating a relationship with the recruiter when you do not need a job, will help you when you are ready for a move. Relationships are key to navigating the hidden job market, but become a bonus when they are created with decision makers.
This should not be seen as being disloyal. When I was a hospital executive, I encouraged my leaders to entertain offers and opportunities. I knew that most of the time our compensation package and culture would stand up against the competition. In the few times that a promotion was offered for greater compensation and a greater future, I was happy that they were able to entertain such a promising opportunity. However, the freedom I gave to my leaders to look elsewhere wound up increasing their loyalty to our hospital.
In conclusion, let’s look at the benefits of being open to all interview opportunities.
1. Learning all the facts about the position being offered.
2. Meeting decision makers and creating a relationship for the future.
3. Using the interview as a benchmark for your current role.
4. You will naturally be relaxed and not feel any pressure during these interviews.
5. You will receive real time experience (and not a practice session) for future interviews.
The best time to interview is when you’re not looking to make a move.
About The Author
John Corcoran has been an executive in the strategic business development arena for over 30 years. In addition to his work in the nonprofit world as well as the healthcare space, he has maintained a career coaching presence since 1992. John is the founder of Merritt Walsh Associates, LLC, a strategy firm and the parent company of Corcoran Career Coaching. He spent 13 years with Pascack Valley Hospital where he held the positions of Senior Vice President of External Relations, Chief Operating Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer, as well as President of the New Jersey Hospital Association Fund Raising Executives.
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