Your personal brand values clash with a potential employer. How can you navigate this conflicting situation?

1 Assess Values

When faced with a potential values clash, the first step is to thoroughly assess both your own values and those of the employer. This involves reflecting on what matters most to you in your career and life. Consider what you stand for and what you're unwilling to compromise on. Then, research the company's values, mission statement, and culture. Understanding where the exact differences lie will help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the opportunity.

2 Seek Clarity

If the mismatch between your personal brand values and those of the employer isn't immediately clear, seek further clarity. You could request a meeting or a casual conversation with current employees or managers to discuss the company's values in practice. Ask specific questions about scenarios that might concern you. This will give you a clearer picture of whether the perceived values clash is a deal-breaker or if there's common ground you hadn't considered.

3 Evaluate Fit

After gaining clarity, evaluate how significant the clash is and whether it affects core aspects of your personal brand. Some differences might be reconcilable, while others could compromise your integrity or career satisfaction. Consider how working for this employer might impact your personal brand in the long term. Will it enhance your professional identity, or could it potentially tarnish it? This evaluation will guide you in deciding whether to move forward or look elsewhere.

4 Communicate Honestly

Should you decide to engage further with the potential employer, it's crucial to communicate honestly about your values and concerns. This doesn't mean launching into a critique of the company's values but rather expressing your professional ethos and what you're looking for in a workplace. An open dialogue can sometimes lead to mutual understanding or reveal flexibility within the company's culture that could accommodate your values.

5 Consider Compromise

In some cases, you might find that while there's a clash, there's also room for compromise. This doesn't mean abandoning your values but rather identifying areas where you're willing to adapt while still maintaining your personal brand's integrity. Perhaps the company is open to change or values your perspective enough to consider how your personal brand could positively influence their culture. Weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of any compromise carefully.

6 Make a Decision

Ultimately, you must make a decision that aligns with your personal brand and career aspirations. If the values clash is too significant and no compromise can be reached, it might be best to walk away and find an opportunity better aligned with your brand. Conversely, if you find the differences manageable or see a chance to enact positive change within the company, taking the job could be a rewarding challenge. Trust in your personal brand to guide you in making a choice that feels true to who you are.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?