October 17, 2023
Meeting the Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz: That's what I call a prospective candidate who's impossible to pin down for a meeting. He claims to be interested, then can't meet for weeks, or reschedules multiple times (always at the last minute). Even phone calls are difficult to book.
Thankfully the Wizard's candidacy never lasts long. That’s because I pull the plug and move on.
Why? Consider some possible explanations for the Wizard’s behavior:
- He’s Not That Interested
Everyone is busy, and making time is about setting priorities. If a candidate can't find time to meet, she isn't interested enough to be worth my time.
- He’s Disorganized
Some candidates are genuinely interested, but so disorganized they can't make the meeting happen. In their world, every day is a crisis. That’s a fatal flaw for any executive position.
- He’s Arrogant
Others are simply arrogant. They profess interest, then don't reply to messages or continually reschedule meetings. Everyone's time is less important than theirs. Interestingly, the most senior people — that is, the ones who actually are important — never behave this way.
I know many recruiters who wouldn't hesitate to chase the Wizard. Not me. I've been doing this long enough to know that the Wizard isn't as great and wonderful as he thinks he is.
Follow the Yellow Brick Road? No thanks.
