The conversation started with a request for IT leads.
A friend at InVision was looking for somebody to manage the company's internal technology work. He asked whether I knew anyone worth talking to and sent a description of what the job needed.
I suggested two tracks.
First, we should talk through the work itself instead of relying on an email summary. I wanted to understand what he actually needed before pointing people toward the role. Then I could think about candidates and make useful introductions.
The second track was less expected. I admitted that I would seriously consider the right company myself.
I wanted a real job with a solid team and a couple of years of good work in front of me. I also needed flexibility. Those requirements mattered more than a title. I was planning to interview soon, then think more carefully about what kind of move made sense.
The note still centered on the original search. I offered to meet for lunch or drinks, learn more about the role, and suggest people who might fit. The conversation could be useful even if I was not the answer.
Before we met, I would also ping a few people who might fit.
We agreed to talk in person. The first job was still to get beyond the bullet points and understand the work. After that, I could help with names and decide whether my own interest belonged in the same conversation.
We set lunch for Tuesday and left both possibilities open.