Ask the headhunter

K.E. asks:

I’m an accomplished IC design engineer with a PhD in electronics. I bring over a decade of experience in design, device modeling and advanced measurements. My career has spanned three continents and six countries, providing me with a unique global perspective and adaptability.

Until recently, I served as a senior engineer at a prominent American company in San Jose. While my time there was invaluable, I’ve made the strategic decision to return to Europe, driven by a deep appreciation for Western European culture. I’m actively seeking new opportunities in the region with a commitment to finding the right fit.

Unfortunately, I don’t hold an EU passport, which presents an additional hurdle in the hiring process. This was illustrated by a recent application to a Dutch startup. While initially promising, it revealed the significant administrative complexities involved in hiring non-EU specialists.

On a more positive note, I recently received a compelling offer and contract from a UK-based company following a series of productive online interviews, with a proposed start date of 1 September. This is an incredibly exciting prospect. However, I’ve also just received an invitation for an on-site interview in Belgium for another highly interesting position, tentatively scheduled for the beginning of September due to common summer vacation periods.

While the UK opportunity is truly exceptional, I believe it’s crucial to attend the Belgian interview to ensure I make a fully informed and confident decision about my next career step. I’d appreciate your opinion on how to handle this situation professionally. Specifically, do you think there could be some flexibility with the company from Oxford regarding the anticipated start date? Perhaps postponing it for a month or so?

The headhunter answers:

Likely, the UK company will soon ask for your passport details and other necessary documents to start the immigration procedure. Under the given circumstances, however, you’ll want to avoid them initiating the process prematurely.

The proposed start date suggests they’re keen for you to begin as soon as possible. If you need more time, it’s crucial to inform them now to manage expectations. Be prepared for them to ask for more details or to decide quickly. A reputable company will appreciate your thoroughness, especially for a senior-level position. Do you have a deadline for accepting the UK offer or for responding to the Belgian interview invitation?

Be aware that the salary level in Belgium will likely be significantly lower than the offer from the UK company – potentially 25 percent lower. This is a significant difference, especially when considering the relatively high cost of living in the Brussels region. Furthermore, due to recent company closures, there’s fierce competition in Belgium for roles like the one you’re interviewing for. There’s a real risk you might not secure the position, potentially leaving you empty-handed if you delay the UK offer.

On the other hand, it’s completely understandable to want to explore all options before committing to a significant career move. There could certainly be flexibility regarding the anticipated start date with the UK company, especially given the circumstances. You’re a highly qualified candidate and they value your skills and experience. Companies are often willing to accommodate top talent like you. Summer is a common time for delays. Many people are on vacation in August. A slight delay is often expected and manageable.

Transparency is key. Honesty, handled professionally, is usually the best policy. So express enthusiasm for the UK role and reiterate your excitement and gratitude for their generous offer. Make it clear that this role is a top contender.

Explain why you need a fully informed decision. Briefly and politely point out that you’ve received an unexpected, but very interesting, on-site interview invitation that would allow you to make a more confident decision about your future. Frame it as ensuring a long-term, committed fit for both parties.

Suggest a revised start date (eg the beginning of October) and ask if there’s any flexibility. You could say something like, “Would there be any flexibility to potentially adjust the start date by approximately a month, perhaps aiming for 1 October? This would allow me to finalize my decision with full confidence.”

Emphasize your commitment: reassure them that once you accept, you’ll be fully dedicated.