Don’t Burn your Bridges!: Blog

Don’t Burn your Bridges!

{by John Smith/Partner - Kellen James}

“Don’t burn your bridges”. Advice we’ve all received at some point in our career. This advice is even more relevant in today’s tough economy.  Whether you are an Employer or a candidate, you need to be cognizant of the way you conduct yourself. Treat people with dignity and respect. Far too many people are acting less than professional and excusing their actions by blaming them on “The Economy”.

I recently had a candidate fail to show up for a final interview. When I phoned to check on him and make sure everything was ok, this is what he said. “I just decided not to go. I’ve had a number of employers jerk me around lately and it felt good to stick it to one for a change”. Since I was the one who would have to call my client and explain I asked him what I had done to deserve his wrath. He said, “Nothing, but it is part of your job so get over it”! He then hung up on me.

With the reach of the internet and other forms of communication, our universe is shrinking. Social Networks are growing and market-spaces are becoming tight knit communities.  People talk and news travels quickly, all the more reason for acting as a consummate professional. Whether you are an employer releasing a candidate from consideration or a candidate removing yourself from the interview process, do so in a Professional manner. First impressions are lasting impressions, don’t burn your bridges.