Negotiating Change

?I’m sure you’re familiar with the Benjamin Franklin quote: “…in this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” However, there’s another certainty we all must eventually face: “change”. Change means “to make (someone or something) different; or to replace (something) with something else, especially something of the same kind that is newer or better; substitute one thing for (another).” As a legal recruiter, I deal with “change” every day. What I find too often is if you don’t make the change when the time is right, someone will eventually make it for you.

How many of you have experienced those dreaded words of change from your employer, such as: “I’m sorry, we’ve decided to downsize,” or “We’re merging with another firm, and we don’t need your position,” or “We’re cutting expenses and only need you part-time or for less pay.” When a recruiter contacts you with an opportunity, that’s your notice to reflect: “Is this the right time to change what I’m doing?” or “Should I stay where I am?”

What typically makes us stay where we are is fear. Fear reminds you how painful it was when you were looking for a job. Questions like “Will I ever find a job?” or “Why would someone want me?” or “Do I have enough experience?” or “How much money should I ask for?” can be paralyzing. This fear of the unknown keeps many from seizing opportunities that could lead to greater fulfillment and success.

Working with a recruiter typically means you don’t have to give up your current job until you’ve secured another one. Recruiters have access to employers who are looking for the exact skills you’ve acquired based on your past experience. Moreover, recruiters help you negotiate better pay, leveraging their knowledge of the market and your value.

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