ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, March 30, 1997 TAG: 9703280027
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: 2 EDITION: METRO
COLUMN: WORKING IT OUT
SOURCE: CAMILLE WRIGHT MILLER
Q: After months and no luck in my job search, I've suddenly had several interviews. I've been offered a job, but not from the company I really want to work for. That job is more interesting, pays more and has better benefits. I need a job and may have to accept the first offer, but don't want to regret taking the job if there's still a chance I'll be offered one with the other company.
A: Many situations we face are, in fact, opportunities to use basic problem-solving skills. One basic practice necessary for excellent problem solving is seeking as much relevant information as possible.
When unsure of the complete job-offer picture, determine how long you have to make a decision on the offer you have. Then identify where the preferred company is in its hiring decision and where you stand among the candidates.
Most companies understand that their hiring choices have other commitments, want to consider offers carefully and may have several other offers. When a hiring offer is extended, it's common for candidates to request a reasonable amount of time to consider the offer. Generally a date for the decision is proposed by the candidate; the company may counter with an earlier date depending on its needs and hiring time line. You can negotiate the decision date.
Once that date is established, candidates can review other employment prospects. Jobs that are the most attractive - for responsibilities, environment, philosophy or money - become the focus of information gathering.
Call the preferred company. Talk with the lead interviewer or human resources person, saying you've been offered a job. Explain that before you give the other company an answer, you'd like to know where the preferred company is in the hiring process for the position you want. Let the interviewer know his or her company is your preference.
If the company is interested in you, tell the interviewer the deadline you've given the other company. If you're the choice of your preferred company, your deadline should spur them to make an offer. If you aren't the No.1 choice, you can accept the first company's offer knowing it's your best alternative. If your inquiries don't provide sufficient information, consider accepting the first offer, since it's a known quantity. You can use the new job to further develop your skills and network and prepare for a new job search in a few years.
If the second company returns with an offer after you've accepted the first job, you can explain you've already made a commitment and that you'd like to be kept in mind for future openings.
Or you can accept the preferred offer and resign from the first company; however, in making this decision keep in mind that the employment world is small. If your action could create problems for you later in your career, it may be better to develop your professional opportunities within the first company. After a year, you can leave with stronger skills and a stronger employment record.
Q: I've been unemployed for two years because of an alcohol problem. I've been sober for six months and want to work in my field again. But former colleagues refuse to serve as references, and I have a gap on my resume. I understand why I'm having difficulties. What I need to know is how to get back into the professional world I enjoyed.
A: Consider seeking a job down several levels in your professional field. If you'll accept a lower level of responsibility, you can demonstrate your abilities and likely progress back through the ranks.
With potentially lowered responsibilities, it's possible a few of your former co-workers will reconsider. Can you return to any former colleagues? If so, explain your attempts to enter the field at a lower level. Let them know what you've done, and are doing, to address your problem.
Be honest with them. Then ask if they'll serve as a reference under these circumstances.
You have a greater challenge than many; however, the job search process is difficult and time consuming for nearly everyone. Keep your attitude positive, and recognize it takes time and persistence for everyone to create a successful job search.
Camille Wright Miller, an organizational behavior sociologist who works in Lexington, answers questions from our readers about workplace issues. Please send them to her in care of The Roanoke Times, Business News Department, P.O. Box 2491, Roanoke 24010, or call 981-3100 ext. 498. Please give your name and phone number in case she has questions.
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