Hunch: an impression that something might be the case; a feeling or guess based on intuition rather than known facts.

Caveat: a warning or proviso of specific stipulations, conditions, or limitations.

We all have hunches, as we don’t always have everything we need to provide an answer with 100% certainty. Typically,  our hunches are followed with a caveat, to keep us off the hook.

Referrals or recommendations are often provided using a hunch/caveat combination.

“I have heard, but…”

“I have seen, although…”

“She/he might work, however…”

As you search for your next position, think about how to help influence your network’s hunch about you, while working to reduce the amount of caveat that needs to follow.

Being present, contributing, showing your work, engaging, helping others, etc. should get you going in the right direction.