Insights into the forces shaping our industry.

Q: Hi Prudence, I’ve been interviewing with a distributor for about two weeks and just spent another full day with them. Nearing the end of the time with them they told me that the ball was in my court, not “do you want the job?” or “we’d love you to come work for us”. I’m not sure how to read that, do you think they mean if I want the job to say so? I have had the same job for almost 20 years, and I never technically interviewed for it. It was a friend’s dad who hired me. Needless to say, I have no idea what I’m doing. Any advice? – Eric

A: Hi Eric- You didn’t mention if you actually wanted the job, but let’s assume you do. I think they’re looking for you to ask for it. If you do want this job…tell them! Call the person you’re interviewing with (don’t email) and tell them that you have been really impressed by the company and the team, and you’d love to come on board. Then be quiet, this will be hard, but put it out there and read the reaction. Sounds to me like they want you but want you to make the first move. Best of luck! Let me know where you land. – Prudence