How To Short-Circuit A Job Interview
Have you ever gone on an interview, and realized somewhere into the interview that you didn’t want the job, but didn’t know how to short-circuit the process? I have, and there is a way to do it gracefully, and not tick off the interviewers. In fact, they would appreciate it as well. Just don’t waste their time or yours. Nevertheless, do you know most people will sit there and go through the interview anyway, because of fear? Maybe you view it as practice, for the next interview or a game to see if they are really interested in you for the position.
So what should you do? Let’s explore this a little.
Option 1. Get up and storm out. Nah, too much emotion. The interviewer will think you’re an idiot or a moron.
Option 2. Sneer at the HR person that called you in. You got dressed, and drove over here for nothing. The job isn’t at all what you were led to believe. Hold on don’t go on the attack.
They seem interested in you, but you have this feeling in the pit of your stomach. Possibly you don’t like what you’ve seen of the organization, or the job you were supposed to interview for, is not the one they are talking about.
DON’T JUST sit there and say nothing! Say something! Say Something already!
Option 3. For example:
“Mr. and Ms. Interviewer, as we are talking about the position, expectations, and opportunities, I’ve gotten a clear understanding of what this position has to offer. However, at the same time, it’s not what I am looking for in my career. I’m not interested and would like to end this interview.”
Now stand up, thank them for their time, and shake hands and leave.
Be courteous, polite, professional and prompt. Ah – you will be relieved once you get out. Short-circuiting a job interview when it makes sense is the right thing to do. If the job market is a little challenging for you, don’t be tempted to accept something you don’t want. I know many folks and you may too who just took a job because they needed it. On the other hand, took the job to buy a car, refrigerator, pay down some debt and that was 15, 20, 30 years ago. It’s okay to say “no” for something you just don’t want, rather than settle and be a crabby, complaining, unhappy, poor performer. You don’t win and neither the employer.
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