As a recruiter, I’ve seen dozens of candidates initially pass on an opportunity, only to realize later that it was exactly the kind of role where they could thrive.
Exploring a new opportunity can feel daunting. Changing jobs comes with risk, but it can also bring significant growth, new challenges, and unexpected rewards. Don’t become so skilled at finding excuses to stay comfortable that you miss opportunities worth exploring. Here are some of the most common excuses recruiters hear from candidates:
“The timing isn’t right.”
There is always a project, a quarter-end deadline, a vacation, a family commitment, or another reason to postpone career exploration. Ultimately, that perfect role will not wait. When you see an opportunity that looks like your dream job, you may need to put timing aside. The perfect role often appears when we are least expecting it.
“I’m happy where I am.”
Some of the strongest opportunities arise when you are not actively looking. If a role is really appealing, it’s worth having a conversation and exploring the opportunity. Interviews are for both the candidate and the potential employer, so if it’s not the right fit, you can politely decline moving forward in the process. Understanding what exists in the market and evaluating whether there may be opportunities that better align with your long-term goals is a smart career move. You can be happy in your current role and still be curious.
“I’m probably not qualified.”
Your recruiter brought the role to your attention precisely because you are qualified. You don’t need to have 100% of the qualifications on a job description, if you did, you would be applying for your current job! Hiring Managers often interview individuals who bring 70-80% of the desired experience but who also demonstrate strong leadership potential, industry expertise, communication skills and cultural fit.
“The title doesn’t sound right.”
Titles differ dramatically between different organizations. Instead of dismissing a role because of a title, if the compensation works, ask your recruiter about the internal title structure and if there is any flexibility.
“The compensation probably isn’t enough.”
Your recruiter’s job is to vet out roles that meet YOUR criteria, and compensation is an important factor. In addition, many organizations offer remote options, relocation assistance, bonuses, and long-term incentives.
“I don’t interview well.”
Almost no one enjoys interviewing. Even the most senior candidates get nervous before interviews. The solution isn’t to avoid interviewing; it is to become more comfortable with the process. Like any skill, interviewing improves with practice.
Every interview creates value, regardless of the outcome, with the opportunity to:
- Learn about an emerging area of your industry.
- Build a relationship with an influential leader.
- Discover your market value.
- Sharpen your interview skills.
- Position yourself for future opportunities.
Final Thought
The next time an exciting opportunity comes your way, resist the urge to immediately convince yourself of why it won’t work. Instead, open your mind to the possibilities. A simple conversation with your recruiter may lead to the next big step in your career.
GROW YOUR CAREER! – WORK WITH THE LEADING ACTUARIAL RECRUITMENT FIRM!
DW Simpson has grown to become the largest actuarial recruiting firm because of our consistent results. Over the last 36+ years, DW Simpson has placed actuaries in jobs at all levels, and in all actuarial disciplines, and you can find current opportunities here DW Simpson. We are constantly growing and evolving as recruiters and industry knowledge leaders, with an eye towards becoming more effective, better educated, and continuing to drive success for our clients and candidates. DW Simpson also provides the industries’ most trusted actuarial salary survey Actuarial Salary Surveys – DW Simpson