Can You be Too Picky?

Job search & job interview are both two-way streets

There are so many cliches surrounding the job search that there is probably one for every occasion. How about this one: “People hire people.” That’s so true.

In this case, the reverse is just as true: “People don’t leave jobs, they leave people.” The variation on that is “People don’t leave jobs, they leave managers.” Although slightly different, both are equally true. In fact, some recruiters estimate that 75 percent of people who leave jobs, do so because of the people involved.

Who’s choosing who?

Now, consider this: the job interview is a two-way street. That’s right. You’re interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. Just because they like you and, perhaps, even offer you a position, that doesn’t mean that you have to accept it.

If you feel uncomfortable about the job, the company, the people, the culture – any of those things, or more – you might want to pass on that particular opportunity.

As a job seeker, just as you have the opportunity to choose your next employer, in the same vein, you might very well be in a position literally to choose your next manager. So pick a good one.

As an older job seeker, this may very well be your last job – and your last manager. At this stage of the game, you should have a pretty good idea of the type of people with whom you work well and for whom you want to work again. As you navigate your job search, keep that in mind.

You can be in a position to choose your own next manager. Choose wisely.

More tips.