Hello Mead,

I am in catch up mode after vacation and dealing with packing up a house for my move.  I just listened to the LOI teleconference.

My take aways (1) Question assumptions & conclusions, (2) Seek contrary data deliberately.

Story: For my new job I negotiated for a departmental infrastructure package based on FTE’s (no financial details).  When I reviewed my offer letter the financial support was thin for one important position.  I discussed this with the Chief of Staff during a call intended to finalize the timing and message for the organizational announcement of my joining the department.  She recommended I send an email to the Dean (my new boss) outlining my issue with a financial recommendation.  Well, during my call the next day with the Dean he was on the top rung of the LOI.  He thought I was backing off our agreement and was concerned about our future working relationship.  Wow.  I was able to remind him that we never discussed financial details, only FTE’s.  He recalibrated with the information I presented and all was good.

My lesson.  Try and be alert when I am running up the LOI.  Also, be aware those around us (above and below) are also climbing up the LOI.

All the best,

Frank