Client Culture/The Search for Rhett Butler

OK, a true story. The story relates back to understanding your client culture.

In my opinion, no person can predict the outcome of the "Do we all get along" "Does it feel right" aspect of a search.

A couple of years ago, I secured a new executive search for a senior financial position. After much client consultation, I thought I understood exactly the client's requirements. I was so excited when the first viable candidate I found possessed ALL of the requirements as understood by me~In fact, he and the client contact (Company Prez) were going to be in the same city, same week..I felt as though the Heaven's had parted while terms like "perfect match" "dumb luck," "great timing" were...well, you get the picture The two met, talked for some time. Candidate called me, yes, super position, liked the company vision, let me call you back. So, hmm..I was sort of wondering at this point. He sounded not sure, vague, even.

So, of course next, the client and I connected..Yes, Ma'am, the meeting was fine, candidate was more than qualified, exactly as was described for experience, education, very personable, and all that..HOWEVER...We are a Southern based company with deep Southern roots and he's a YANKEE! We are talking the difference between grits and quiche. This gentleman would feel uncomfortable with in our organization in a matter of days. But you are right on the target with the type of experience we need.

Soooo, I hung up the phone, took a long hot bath, thought about that conversation more when suddenly it dawned on me~~

Ah! I am searching for Rhett Butler with a degree in finance.

The next day, we started from square one with a different attitude. A few days later I was given a was a referral to a possible candidate. He was what I would term an "up and comer." With some reluctance, I placed a call to him, he returned my call. Yes, he was interested in hearing more..Did I detect a faint Southern accent? Yes! We talked at length (of course) about the company, the position, and arranged an interview. The outcome of the meetings led to a filled position, a happy client, a happy employee (still two years later.)

Client Culture. Help me understand all of those nuances about your client culture.