When a candidate no-shows an interview, quits after two days or turns down an offer, we need to stop blaming them. Too often, we’re so anxious to fill a job that we didn’t take time to understand what was most important to each person we represent.
If I understand how you can help me advance in my career, I’m going to call you back and show up for an interview. If you pitched a job that really didn’t interest me – I won’t.
If you took time to understand my short and long term goals, the culture and type of boss I prefer, things I’d change about my past jobs, the salary range and benefits I would accept and my core values, I won’t quit a job after a few days.
When an offer is turned down, chances are you missed relevant information when you interviewed me, presented a job opportunity, prepared me for the interview or during our subsequent conversation, which should all start out with the same question: “Has anything changed since the last time we talked?”
Each time you blame or point the finger at someone or something else, there are three fingers pointing back at you. Ask yourself what you could have done different, so this same scenario doesn’t repeat itself.
It’s not our job to agree or disagree with the people we represent. We need to see the world through their eyes and understand their priorities, so we present opportunities they will accept without hesitation. This also helps ensure they become engaged and retained employees.