Job Stress?
Tough Career Decision:
How to walk away from an
opportunity that's wrong for you
by Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D.
Q. I just finished
a job interview. Everything went well. But I can't get excited about
the job. The people were nice but frankly, I got bored.
Should I withdraw my
application or hang on to see what happens?
A. Let me share a
secret. I love country music especially the classics. Your
question reminds me of Kenny Rogers's big hit, The Gambler. I can't
quote even a line due to copyright laws, but you can Google the song.
Know when to stay. Know when to put down your cards. And above all,
recognize when it's time to walk away and time to run.
I believe that everyone
in business should create a goal, "Be able to walk away." Be able
to let go of a customer who's a pain and a job that's creating pain. Be
able to recognize a business opportunity that's all wrong for you, to
say, "That's not a good fit."
Feeling bored sounds like
a signal to me. If you (or your interviewer) has trouble staying awake,
that's like a red light flashing and a big siren screaming, "Go away!"
So...what's the best
way to walk (or run)?
1. Expect your
interviewer or client to say, "Thank you! We appreciate your honesty."
They probably won't add,
"Frankly, we agree you're not a good fit here." But most likely,
that's exactly what they're thinking
2. Plan for the
unexpected. On very rare occasions, you'll hear, "Oh no! What can
we do to make you change your mind?" or, "We have another option that
may interest you."
But don't count on it.
3. Create a neutral
explanation that's mutually face-saving and final.
Good reasons: "We don't
have room to do justice to your project," or, "I've decided to pursue
another option that seems to be a better fit for me at this time."
Bad reasons: "The
chemistry didn't seem right," or, "I don't see room for my career
growth."
Your contact person might
be searching for a new job herself and you may be a terrific
match for an opportunity in her next position.
4. Recognize that you
will (most likely) be burning bridges.
Be sure you aren't acting
out of short-term emotion. Wait a few days after the interview (if you
have that luxury) and consider talking to a coach, consultant or other
trusted sounding board.
5. Revive your
networking, sales activity and application process. Often saying
"no" will clear the decks for you to clarify what you really want. Some
folks believe you're reflecting abundance and making way for newer,
more appropriate opportunities to enter your life.
Bottom Line: Being
in a position to decline opportunities means you hold a winning hand.
You're well along the road to whatever you define as success and
prosperity. Use this option sparingly and wisely.
In any relationship, I've
found that saying "yes" to the wrong proposal inevitably leads to a
bitter, expensive divorce.
Recommended reading:
Ten things to do when you
really, really hate your job: Download now!
Your 21-Day Extreme Career Makeover Download now!
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