In working with executive candidates during the recruitment process, one of the best ways to discover a candidate’s real operating style is during the offer negotiation stage.

Most candidates I work with are the “same people” during the entire process and I am very thankful for that. However, there seems to be a correlation between some candidates (maybe 10%) who behave totally different during the offer negotiation stage and future long term success with their new company. For example, when a candidate brings a lack of flexibility and a stronger than usual ego on certain offer negotiation points (pay, vacation, relocation, stock, etc) it is usually a sign of trouble to come for the employer.

I have learned from painful experience to offer a heads up to my client about the behavior so that there are no surprises when the candidate is hired. This is a very difficult conversation to have as the company is well down the road of closing the deal but better raise the flag ahead of time so there are no surprises. My expectation of fair play is also expected of the client and I am blessed with very good client relationships that know how to make the offer a “win-win” for the candidate and company.