I’ve been in the recruiting business a long time, and I have plenty of funny stories. One of them still makes me laugh.
I used to call on a guy every quarter. He would tell me who in his company was hiring, and I would call on them. This went on for years.
Then one day I called him up, chatted him up like a good recruiter does, and asked him, like always…
“So, who should I call in your company today? Who’s hiring?”
This time he said, “Well Joe, I’m going to turn the tables on you. I’m okay with it, but the board has decided to go in a different direction.”
“Oh wow, sorry to hear that,” I said.
“That’s okay Joe, don’t worry. I’ve got a different plan for my career.”
“Well, I’d like to help you any way I can.”
We talked about his skills and superpowers, and whether he’d be open to relocation. Then I asked him:
“In terms of salary, what’s the lowest base salary you would ever want our recruiting team to call you on?”
He said, “Oh, I don’t know Joe. Anything 7 figures base and 8 figures total payout.”
I was speechless. The only thing that came out of my mouth was…
“That sounds good!”
I think he knew I maybe couldn’t help him, or maybe he just had another call. Either way, he promptly shuffled me off the phone.
“Well Joe, it’s been a fine pleasure to speak with you as always, but I need to run. I’m sure we’ll be talking again real soon.”
I confessed this story to a board member and mentor friend of mine. I told him I felt like a total goofball for letting “That sounds good!” slip out. And he said, in his perfect English accent, “Well Joseph, the next time you find yourself in that situation, perhaps better to try something like…
“Is that all?”
We both had a good laugh about it.
What I love about the recruiting business is that you’re always learning and growing. Even the goofball moments teach you something.
Hiring? Call the recruiters at Joseph Michaels International at 1-800-786-1099. Job seekers, watch my 18 interviewing tips video before your next interview.
Questions? Email info@josephmichaels.com.
