The Unlikely Path to Success: Taking a Job You Never Expected to Suit You

Introduction

Being hired for a role that initially seems unsuited for you can sound like a misfire at first. But navigating such a situation with professionalism and integrity can open doors you never saw coming. This article recounts a story from my time in the film industry where I found myself in an unexpected professional situation and the lessons learned from it.

My Experience in Hollywood

Upon moving to Hollywood from New York City, where I worked as an apprentice film editor, my career trajectory was on a steady climb. I worked my way up the ranks from an apprentice, to a second assistant, and then a first assistant. It was during this period that I was offered a job as a producer's assistant, which would have a profound impact on my career.

The Unforeseen Interview

The producer, during a job interview, attempted to pressure me into revealing my salary expectations. His tactics were underhanded, and I was wise enough to avoid his attempts to gather this information for his own purposes. With my integrity intact, I made my initial salary request of $600 per week during an interview that took place over 30 years ago.

Meeting the Director

Despite the producer's intentions, I was invited to meet with the director who was impressed by my resume and skills. The film, a low-budget volleyball movie with no major stars, earned a relatively standard rate for the industry at that time. However, when the time came to proceed with hiring, the producer contacted me to ask if I had mentioned a lower rate. I remained firm in my position.

Producer's Anger and Decision

The producer's anger was palpable when I told him my initial salary request. He angrily declared that he was not paying me $600 per week. Feeling the pressure, I decided to walk away from the job and offered my services elsewhere. He was shocked by my decision and offered a lower salary of $450, which I would not accept.

Director's Intervention

Frustrated, the producer called me a few minutes later, explaining that he was not budging on the rate. The director, having met me and liked my work, offered to mediate and speak on my behalf. To my surprise, he too could not persuade the producer to raise the rate.

Conclusion: Lessons Learned

The experience taught me that sometimes, sticking to your principles and saying no can protect your professional integrity. While I may not have accepted the job with the producer, I found that the director's trust and the satisfaction of standing my ground paid off. In the long run, the job I took with the director led to greater opportunities that I might not have foreseen at the time.

Final Reflections

Remember, taking a job you didn't initially expect to suit you can be a stepping stone to something better. Standing firm in your convictions, even when the offer seems worthwhile, can pay off. In my case, it led to a career path I was passionate about and aligned with my values.