Welcome Professionals…

…today I turned down a client order. For the first time in my life. Ever. It feels a bit awkward, but I am convinced it is the right decision.

We had a contract on the table that the client was willing to sign. We were to do a retained search mandate for this client, looking to find and headhunt the Head of a Business Unit. It was a substantial contract value, certainly above average.

“Before we start” – the client said – “let me tell you about our company culture.” What then followed left me puzzled and a bit disgusted. I couldn’t believe they were really serious about what I heard: “We do not care for the individual. We only care for the company. We do not feel any sympathy for our employees, we do not have any patience with them, and we don’t give mercy. Feelings like this only weaken the organization”. That was the starting point to a 90 minutes lecture on their specific leadership style and so-called company values. What made it even worse – it was their Group Head of HR who conveyed these messages.

Usually, if I see some adversity, it makes me try even harder. Not this time. I felt a strong resistance to deal with this project. I tried to rationalize it. I made a list of pros and cons. Finally I decided not to work for this company. I would rather want to invest my dedication and energy into a company with values that I share.

Yours faithfully,

Malte

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