For the second time now, in the past 6 months, a company has offered me a different role than I was brought to interview for. Is this a fairly common thing? In both cases, they have either planned or began executing some restructuring to create the position. I don't really know how to interpret the offers. The first time, we were unable to align on compensation requirements, but I now have an offer pending, and just don't know how to interpret it. I am flattered they want me in the organization, but wondering why the role change and organization change. In the end, I was more attracted to original position, but it's with an organization extremely highly rated in the region, and even nationally ranked, so just getting my foot in the door there is a win. Have others had this experience? How did you handle it?
Different Role than Interviewed For
Answers
I have not had the same direct experience, but could it be that you represent certain strengths the company did not realize they needed until they spoke to you? Were both of the different roles somewhat similar, such that it might indicate what you are communicating your skills as?
Sara,
I am pretty sure my process improvement and change
Thanks for the Input!
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Anon-Sara's question provoked an interesting response from you. Are you perhaps thinking too much only about your technical skills in FP&A and not thinking enough about your soft talents, like knowing how to interact with people, etc?
You alluded to "my process improvement and change management experience" and maybe that is the key to why you are getting the reaction you are.
If so, that is great, because you have just differentiated yourself:)
Len,
Thanks for the response. You too raise an interesting question, I hadn't really considered. I don't consider myself to be an exceptional interviewee, but I suppose I am really not in the position to make that call. It is very possible that they are attracted to a soft skill rather than a hard skill. However, I have just never considered myself to have exceptional soft skills. Adequate, certainly, but I wouldn't think I am so far ahead of my peers that an organization (or two) would just have to have them. That said, I suppose I haven't compared myself to my peers in this area. Perhaps this is an area I need a little more self reflection to try and understand myself a little bit better.
I would exercise caution with these kinds of offers, especially where restructuring is taking place. It very well may mean that the positions are changing/temporary, and it may also be a sign the company doesn't actually know what it needs, which could impact you if you choose to work there. Ask a LOT of questions so you know exactly what you are getting into.
I interviewed for a position at a company where two positions were open, and despite my questions about the organizational structure, I didn't feel like I could get a straight answer or that the org chart made sense. Finally, the SVP/Chief
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Anon, these are all concerns that I have. I did press both the
If they want you that badly, get an employment contract. Nothing overtly over the top, but a payout should the job last less than X period of time, etc.
If they balk even at the thought of an employment contract and you a secure in your present employment, stay put.
Caveat: If you have the wherewithall to gamble, then it might be worth that gamble, down side - you're out of work.