We’ve all been approached before to leave our jobs and jump the fence for greener pastures. Now I could write a blog about how the grass isn’t always greener blah blah blah, but this piece is about being respectful when being approached to move and banking those relationships for a rainy day.

Here at Logical we are very active at the moment, busily searching for great people to join our team. During my search I’ve made some great contacts and met some high-quality candidates, but this particular induvial stood out for their response to my approach. I’ll paraphrase:

Thanks for reaching out, I am happy, but I’ll take a date at *insert expensive restaurant name* 😉.

Now as flattering as the response was, it didn’t do any favours for said approached consultant and put the #metoo movement back about 20 years. Imagine if, as a male, I responded to someone in that fashion.It’s a cliché but this is a very small world and you never quite know who you’re responding too and where that response will end up! It may end up the subject of a blog that goes viral (if 5 readers constitute going viral)! And as much as the response was light-hearted, I’d now be unlikely to re-engage this person should their circumstances change.

Here are my tips for respectfully responding to head-hunters:

  1. Be professional! Yes, it might not be the right time now, but the way you respond to these messages could be the difference between door open and door closed in the future both with that organisation as well as with that individual.
  2. Thank them for reaching out. It’s a huge compliment to be asked if you’d like to join someone’s business. Take it as such.
  3. Help if you can. You might not be the right person for them, but you may know someone who is. Adding value will help you create a lasting network contact.
  4. Ask if you can stay in touch. Keep doors open! You just never know what you might encounter down the road.

Even if you’re not on the market, being approached can create more than just job offers. It’s an opportunity to build your brand even if you end up staying put.

I’m always keen to hear your feedback and experiences, and we’re obviously looking for good people if you’re after a job and not a dinner.

JD