A good connection makes the best fit. A week, a holiday day, and a shower … the small things that can halt an offer process, and why this is a blessing in disguise.
Recently I was working on a project where we’d found a fantastic candidate, they’d flown through the interviews, and yet, reaching offer stage, things became complicated. One of the most challenging parts of being a recruiter, is being stuck in the middle between two parties with different sets of opinions, ideals, and feelings. Seeing both sides, but not always being able to bring them together. Even with candidates where the fit can feel instinctive and strong, the final stages of the process can still make the agreement fall apart. And honestly, in many cases, that is a blessing in disguise, for both parties.
This last tricky stage, is as much a test of fit as all other. It’s pure culture. I remember a contract we were working on a few years ago, it was not easy to forget, because the candidate requested special dispensation during the offer process, to be able to shower during his lunch break. I remember saying to my colleague that they needed to be pulled, because anyone with that kind of demand is just not going to work out. But the profile was strong, the client was keen, and we pressed on. They didn’t last a year.
Sometimes candidates get so mixed up in the negotiation itself, over a couple of holiday days, or a few thousand euros a year, that they lose the offer. While there is a lot at stake, remember not to risk the opportunity itself, of building a relationship with a great boss and mentor.
The contract can always improve, whereas finding a boss with whom you have a strong connection, is not something you find every day. Keep the long view in mind. If the boss promises but doesn’t deliver, you can always leave, but try not to risk an excellent connection from the outset just because of the smaller terms of a contract. Great connections are the basis for a wonderful life.
And that brings me to the connection. Never negotiate on the quality of a connection. Even if the CV or job looks great. Even if.. even if. Even 1% out, is not strong enough. You need to focus on working with people with whom the fit feels like 110%. Look for the ‘click’.
