My "Spidey sense" tells me to decline a new opportunity, but I've been putting off telling the potential client. Can they read between the lines?
Maynard Webb
Founder, Webb Investment Network; Author ‘Dear Founder’; Board member Visa and Salesforce.
I was introduced to a potential client, and we discussed their complex project. They would like to hire me but my “Spidey sense” tells me I don’t want this job. They’ve been following up and I’ve been avoiding them. What should I do?
-Independent contractor
Dear Contractor,
Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right about this project, there’s probably a good reason. It sounds like this would be a long-term commitment, and starting with reservations rarely leads to a successful outcome.
What you need to do now is get closure. Avoiding the potential client only prolongs the discomfort and leaves both of you hanging. This is a case where a direct, brief communication is the kindest and best approach for everyone involved.
You don’t have to explain it’s about a gut feeling. You can simply say something like, “I’m sorry, I know this isn’t what you want to hear, but I’ve thought about it and looked ahead, and this project won’t work for me.”
If possible, offer advice on where they could go next. You can refer them to someone else if you know a better fit but be mindful not to send someone else into a situation you yourself are avoiding.
Many independent contractors don’t get to pick and choose—they need the job and the income. But if you can be selective, that’s a position to appreciate. Work on what you want. Just remember to stay humble. Do not become entitled or treat others in a way that's disrespectful or takes them for granted. That’s not a path that serves you well in the long run.
Every week I respond to a new question. Ask me your question in the comments section.
Don't ghost but don't grab it. Send a short, respectful message. Something like: Hi [Name], I appreciate you considering me for your project. After thinking it through, I’ve decided not to move forward. I don’t believe I’m the right fit for this one, and I want to be honest about that upfront. Wishing you success in finding the right partner for your goals. You don’t need to explain more than that. Keep it clean, firm, and respectful. It’s not your job to save everyone. It’s your job to protect your time, your focus, and your long-term reputation.
Asking the Whys in the Business World.
2moI tell my new co-workers if you see me leave a situation that I'm not involved in Follow me. It usually means things are going to get interesting. Businesses ask for contracts all the time. They would have no problem saying we have gone with another bid. You shouldn't have a problem saying thank you for the opportunity to work with you but I will pass.
Experienced technology innovator/leader, I've built products for small, medium, and large companies, using a mix of insight, process innovation, and a passion for operational excellence
2moThat's fine, but I would also recommend trying to understand the actual concerns / trade-offs. Making decisions based on "Spidey Sense" or your "Gut" is unsatisfying/concerning, as the person is experiencing. So try to tease out the actual concerns, and that would help make the decision easier/cleaner. It will also help future decision making
Don't put off, if your gut is saying stay away do it. Call them and say you will not move forward and follow up with an email. Show respect but move on your feeling...otherwise, you are wasting both sides time.