by Ben Hess, Managing Director, ThirdPool Recruiting
In a recent podcast, psychologist Adam Grant described an interaction with a student who came to him for some career advice.
The student briefly expressed her concerns, and then Dr. Grant spent most of the conversation pontificating about the career path she should take.
He went into great detail about the problems she would likely face and how to navigate the path ahead.
At the end of the conversation, the student said something surprising but remarkably insightful.
I feel like you’re a logic bully. You just overwhelmed me with rational arguments. I don’t agree with all of them, but I can’t fight back because I don’t have enough information.
Adam replied, Good, that’s my job! You came to me for advice, and I provided the insight you needed.
The student replied, I understand what you’re doing, but I really wanted to own my decision. You’ve taken that away from me.
There are many early-stage interviews that follow the same pattern.
When a recruiting prospect comes to you to investigate a new career option, the best recruiters and hiring mangers skillfully and carefully guide them through the process of owning their decision.
