Earlier this week, I had an impromptu business meeting. The meeting was set-up by a mutual associate who thought this was a good company with which to align. To prepare, she prepped me on key topics I should highlight about my work and life experiences.

Although the opportunity was what I wanted, I wasn’t completely sold on the company. I still wanted to make a good impression; a positive outcome could completely change the trajectory of my professional future. My goal was to pitch well, get an offer and then mull over the details of the opportunity, settling on a final decision of “yes” or “no” days later.

A Good Opportunity Or The Right Opportunity?

right opportunityI hated that I didn’t have as much time as I wanted to study up on the company, but at the same time, I was grateful I didn’t have too much time to sit and ponder, going back and forth about the pros and cons. I arrived for the meeting with about five minutes to spare, went in and gave my best sell. I was nervous since it had been some time since the last time I had done this, but all went well. The potential client was nice and friendly, honest and sincere. We discussed my plans and goals, what I brought to the table, and her company’s history. The meeting was my favorite kind, one where the conversation just flows, and both parties talk freely.

Although we liked each other a lot, and after literally racking our brains to see if a partnership could work, we concluded the meeting deciding that it was not a good fit.

Waiting for The Right Opportunity

As a small business owner and a primarily independent worker, I have to be honest with myself about what is possible, what is right and what is worth it- whatever “it” is at the time. I have learned never to let my pitch and desire to snag a client, overshadow what is a good fit for me.

I also want to be and give my best, and sometimes when you are trying to get ahead, you bite off more than you can chew. I take no pleasure in being thrown into the deep end, where I will inevitably just tread water until I grow tired. I want to succeed, and I want clients to feel that I was a good investment.

Being able to be real with yourself and walk away is power.

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Yes, I am aware of my capabilities and know I have adapted in many fields at different stages, but success to me is not just the money, but being able to use discernment. Parsing through options and choosing something that really inspires me to grow.

The woman I met with actually used the words, “You are great! I am trying to see how this could work.” To which I replied I am looking for organic business ties, not just temporary ones that will not last a year. She wanted someone with a more in-depth history of work in a particular field, and although I have great experience, I do not possess the knowledge and expertise she was seeking. She said she would keep in touch and I don’t doubt that she will.

Later, the person who introduced us told me, the person I met with said she “loved you!” Being able to be real with yourself and walk away is power. I was not disappointed, in fact, when I left our meeting we were both all smiles. I felt excited and elated; being called to the meeting was proof of my forward progression. I am being noticed and moving in the right direction. It is only a matter of time before the attention comes from the right person.

Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash

 

When we encounter a good opportunity that isn't quite perfect, it can be tempting to take it. Maya James shares her experience and why she's waiting for the right opportunity instead.