Here’s What Barbara Corcoran Did After Being Fired — and What You Can Learn From It
Written by
Gabriel Vito
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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At some point in your career, you’ve probably dealt with a rejection that felt unfair, a job offer that was rescinded at the last minute, an interview that didn’t go your way or a promotion that slipped through your fingers. You’re not alone.
Barbara Corcoran, real estate mogul and “Shark Tank” investor, knows a thing or two about turning setbacks into opportunities. Before the show’s first season aired in 2009, producers offered her a spot as an investor — only to rescind it two weeks later in favor of someone else, as reported by CNBC.
Here’s how Corcoran handled the situation and some lessons that can be learned from it.
A Simple Email
Most people would’ve walked away after finding out they’d been replaced. Corcoran didn’t. Instead, she fired off a short, confident email, arguing they’d made a mistake and suggesting a fair solution: let both candidates compete for the role. Producers agreed, and Corcoran won the spot. Sixteen seasons later, she’s still there.
Her story is a masterclass in persistence and smart negotiation. So how can you use Corcoran’s strategy in your own career? Corcoran’s approach offers practical takeaways for professionals dealing with unexpected career obstacles.
Don’t Accept ‘No’ Too Quickly
A rejection doesn’t always mean the door is permanently closed. If you believe you’re the right fit for a role, consider making a case for yourself.
Oprah Winfrey was fired from her first TV job for being “too emotional,” according to Inc., but she refused to quit broadcasting. She later built one of the most successful media empires in history.
Takeaway: If you truly believe you’re the right person for an opportunity, don’t get discouraged about a rejection. A well-timed follow-up or a fresh approach could change the outcome.
Be Direct and Confident
Corcoran’s email wasn’t long-winded or emotional. She clearly stated why she deserved a chance, making it easy for the producers to reconsider.
Takeaway: When advocating for yourself, be clear, concise and confident. Long-winded or emotional responses can weaken your argument.
Find a Way To Stand Out
Instead of demanding producers change their decision outright, Corcoran proposed a fair compromise. This solution-oriented approach likely made it easier for producers to say yes because it gave them a clear, low-risk way to reconsider her without losing face.
People may be more likely to agree to a request when they feel like they aren’t being forced into it. By offering a reasonable alternative instead of pushing back aggressively, Corcoran took the pressure off the producers, making it simple for them to rethink their choice in a way that felt fair.
Takeaway: If you’re asking someone to reconsider a decision, make it easy for them to say yes by offering a win-win solution rather than just arguing why they’re wrong.
Corcoran’s career is a testament to resilience and strategic thinking. While not every job loss can be reversed with a well-worded email, her story proves that pushing back — when done effectively — can lead to unexpected successes. Whether you’re dealing with a rescinded offer, a layoff or a professional setback, the right mindset and approach can make all the difference.
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