Five tips to walk away from the wrong offer 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 have as 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.

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Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D., is a published author, career/business

consultant, and speaker. Subscribe to Your Next Move Ezine:

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