HBR's 10 Must Reads on Communication, Vol. 2 (with bonus article "Leadership Is a Conversation" by Boris Groysberg and Michael Slind)

A Second Chance to Make the Right Impression

by Heidi Grant

YEARS AGO A FRIEND OF MINE, GORDON, interviewed for a position at a prominent university. During his daylong visit to campus, he had lunch with a senior faculty member (let’s call him Bob) who had final say over the hire. After their food arrived, Bob said of his meal, “You know, this is great. You should try this.” Even though Gordon knew it was a dish he wouldn’t like, he felt pressured to have a bite so as not to offend his potential future boss. The lunch continued pleasantly, with Gordon enumerating his accomplishments and Bob responding positively. Gordon was therefore more than a little surprised when he didn’t get the job.

He learned why a few years later, after he’d been hired ...