The Magic of “No”

Holding on for the possibility of “yes” when we already know the answer is “no” can be time-wasting and soul-killing. So why do we do it?

It’s human nature. And it can happen at different stages in the job search.

When an opportunity first pops up. Maybe you heard about it from a recruiter, maybe a friend. Possibly from the employer who wants you to interview. When you aren’t a definite “yes,” your response—even if only internally—is that you need to “think about it.” If you have questions aimed at gathering more data, start the interview process and ask them, of course. Don’t fool yourself, though. No one ever “thinks” their way to “yes.”

In the interview process. You have met with the new employer once, or even twice. You got answers to your questions, but you can tell you are not a full-throated “yes.” Even so, you keep going because you think, “Well, let’s see what the offer turns out to be.” At that point, however, you aren’t thinking about whether this is the right opportunity for you. You are thinking about whether that offer could make it the right opportunity.

With an offer in your hands. You have the offer you wanted or thought you wanted. In any case, it’s what you worked hard to get. Maybe there is someone (or several someones) whose input is vital to you. If so, you should ask for it. It’s one thing, though, for that input to reinforce you when you’re already at “yes.” It’s another thing to expect it might help convince you if you’re not.

Sometimes “no” is the right answer. Don’t ignore the signals telling you that it is.