Officially an Overqualified Cliche

The latest development of an eternally long process. This past week I've been continuing my waiting game with four CPG companies. Two in California, one in Colorado and the last in Wisconsin of all places.

Seemingly great companies that embody more than just selling out for the coveted dollar. I had at least two phone conversations with three of the four. The calls were filled with excitement and passion. I could sense the interest and willingness to move to the next level. The next level being in-person interviews. I lived in a state of contained euphoria. I felt hopeful and wanted and just knew one of these companies was my future. I was passionate about their mission and excited to help them accomplish their goals. The future looked so promising.

Then it began to fall apart. After my second call with the Colorado company, the HR responded to my inquiry email with, "I should know more in the next day or so". A week went by and I followed up. No response.

The next company I followed up with is in Northern California. They are a little more corporate and let's just say the mission is definitely not consumer driven. But they have good products. Had a great call with the VP. He was effusive with his excitement about my experience and I got the impression he wanted me out there ASAP. I was flying out for in persons with the other Cali company and the timing was perfect!

So I waited and waited for the HR person to call me to make arrangements. *crickets chirping. I followed up twice with her with a week's length in between emails. She wrote back, "We are continuing to talk with more candidates and will then narrow down the pool of candidates that we want to bring onsite for interviews so no news at this point."

Um what the hell?! The guy I talked to was so excited for me to move to the next step and now this is the story? I wrote back and asked, what's the timeframe for decision making and I'm sure you can guess what she responded. Well, she didn't respond so there!

I had a great call with the VP of the Wisconsin company. I thought I did well. Answered his questions with energy and professionalism, and true respect for his accomplishments. I thought I'd be on a plane next week. The Director was so enthusiastic with me on the phone. He was ready and so was I!

A week later the recruiter called and told me that they had decided to go with two other applicants. They didn't say much but she had the impression they thought I was overqualified for the Brand Manager position.

Hmm... I had tons of knowledge on a category they just started out in as well as tons of experience, period. Plus I was passionate about the mission. For fuck's sake, I was willing to move to Wisconsin where the diversity is as colorful as Wonder bread.

Last but the very least...the job I truly wanted. In Northern California, a great culture, tons of growth potential, all the bells and whistles. I had spoken twice on the phone with my potential boss. We clicked had great conversations about the business. I really thought it was the perfect match.

They flew me out to Cali for a day of meetings with everyone from the project manager to the VP. I thought it went GREAT! I truly enjoyed everyone I spoke with. Thought what a great team, etc.

A few including my boss questioned that I was taking a step back since I was a Director in my last position but it was like comparing apples to oranges. Titles mean nothing. Even though this was a brand manager position it was for innovation. I was a Director of a company that was stunted and dysfunction with a boss that didn't know the definition of the word leader.