When looking for a job, timing is simply everything! And as much as I truly believe what is meant to be will be, sometimes we have to chase our own destiny.
Net net these are my deep personal thoughts … but professionally, I have seen clock and calendar severely impair a job search. When you are actively interviewing- it is essential to clear your calendar as best as you can. We know it’s not easy to make an appointment (ideally before work at lunch or after work) and we know that looking for a new job can feel like another full time job. We get it. When you work with an agency, we can help you negotiate meetings hopefully a bit better than you can on your own- but sometimes we are at the mercy of the client. If the hiring manager has an erratic schedule and wants to get you in, it really is essential to try and make it happen.
That means doctors appointments, SoulCycle, and personal agendas need to come second to your new opportunities potential calendar.
Right before the holidays, we had someone go on a terrific interview. The search had been open for weeks and the client was hungry to have anew person in the mix come January. Our candidate couldn’t squeeze out her follow up meeting in the short window that the client had available before jetting out of the country for the holidays. Even though she was a great fit, the hiring manager went forward with the number 2 who managed to get in to see her before her trip.
After 12 years of putting people to work, I still felt terrible delivering the end result to our hopeful candidate. “Sorry, candidate x, they loved you but needed to hire before the holiday and you didn’t get back to them so they hired someone else.” Eek.
Lesson learned… new job slipped through her fingers…
Yes, I do personally believe that role wasn’t for her then… but professionally I know better. You need to make sure you are available and in the right place at the right time. 2nd and 3rd interviews are essential and your schedule should come second (within reason) to the hiring manager who holds your fate and next steps in his or her hands!
Keep this story in the back of your minds as we saunter into 2017… make sure you take the call, respond to the email quickly, and say your best yes(es)… so that your new destiny can find you quickly instead of getting roadblocked.
xx Marissa
