Q: After searching for months, I unexpectedly find myself with two offers. How should I choose between them?
A: Choosing between or among job offers can be the most stressful part of the search process. The key to answering your question should have begun months ago, when you decided to seek a change. Why did you want to change? What did you want to change? How? What do you not want to endure any longer? What working and lifestyle condition are you seeking? What areas do you need or want to learn or develop to further your career goals? What are your goals?
You need to assess not only your skills, knowledge and experience but also what you do and don't want in your next job.
It's not too late. Make a list of key factors, values, working conditions, and lifestyle considerations that are most important to you. Rank-order the list then compare each offer against your list.
Talk to others about your comparisons and feelings. Selecting among offers needs to be a "head and heart" decision. Writing your list gives you the rational framework while talking about your feelings adds the necessary emotional context for your decision.
Q: After searching on and off for a year, doing some (but not enough) consulting, I suddenly find myself with two interviews and promise-to-help network meetings with three or four top executives in New York City. I don't know what they need or want. What should I focus on? How should I sell myself?
A: You're not there to "sell yourself" (such a distasteful phrase.) You're there to listen, find out what their needs are and then match your skills to their needs. Focus on them with questions and listening. Find out what they want, what they need and why they're talking to you.
Could you imagine going to an automobile showroom and have a salesman immediately start showing you cars without asking questions of you? You would expect him to find out whether you are looking or buying; what kind of vehicle you drive now; what other vehicles you're looking at; how you will use the vehicle and the style, safety and feature considerations that are particularly important to you. The same is true in an interview. You don't go in trying to "sell" yourself before you find out what the interviewer is looking for.
Research the companies. Build a list of questions to ask. Compose a one-minute summary statement of your background emphasizing your basic area of expertise. You'll likely be asked early on to "tell me about yourself." Respond with your summary opening statement and then transition to them by stating, "That's an overview of my background. What I was hoping to do today was find out more about your firm and how my abilities and experience could be of benefit to you."
Many interviewers tend to talk more than they listen in interviews; the questions you've prepared will help you find out where they're going and what you need. Listen well and match your qualifications to their needs. Express an interest in the company, the people, and the job; ask for feedback; ask what the next steps are. Focus on them. Ask questions and listen.
Roll Call Inc. does not represent or make any warranty in respect of the articles, including with respect to the accuracy or reliability of any of the information contained in, distributed through, linked, downloaded or accessed from any of the articles. The opinions and views expressed in these articles do not, necessarily, represent those of Roll Call, Inc. This information submitted by Morris Associates, Inc., a career transitions, outplacement and business learning solutions firm in Washington, D.C. For more information: Call (202) 835-1750.
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