Why Partner With an Executive Search Firm?

The work of executive search firms can at times be confused with the services of contingent recruiting agencies. However, there are key, significant differences.

Have you ever been tasked with discovering the perfect candidate for an executive-level position? If so, you're aware the process of finding a candidate to fill senior-level roles is much more rigorous, time-consuming, and research-heavy than hiring an entry-level or middle management position.  The process has become even more difficult post-Covid.

When recruiting intermediate personnel, you’ll typically post on a job board or two,  run the resumes through an algorithm, and review the remaining applicants for the best possible candidates. The process can range from days to weeks. However, when it comes to an organization’s most senior-level roles – from executive leadership or the C-Suite – different strategies are necessary to find the right candidate who can lead an organization.

An executive search firm is a company that specializes in placing highly qualified candidates in executive-level positions across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Executive search consultants seek to understand a specific executive position, define the core competencies necessary for a successful hire, and target several candidates that fit a distinct profile. Such positions include President, Vice President, CEO, CFO, COO, department heads, and more. 

The work of executive search firms can at times be confused with the services of contingent recruiting agencies. However, there are key differences in scope, methodology, process, and more, which differentiate these into two entirely different professions. In short, retained executive search firms partner with organizations to provide expertise in their industry or service, ultimately leading to the hire of a successful candidate.  

RETAINED EXECUTIVE SEARCH VS CONTINGENT RECRUITING

Unfortunately, executive search consulting and contingent recruiting are often thought of interchangeably, but are completely different professions.

RETAINED EXECUTIVE SEARCH

DEFINITION

Executive search firms are specialized management consultants retained by clients in an advisory capacity. Executive search firms partner with a client to identify, assess and select the very best possible candidate.

BUSINESS MODEL

Executive search firms operate on an exclusive, client-centered basis and work on a limited number of assignments at one time. They are engaged in all aspects of the process, from defining the search through candidate integration. They often find candidates with diverse backgrounds and have access to candidates who are not actively seeking a new position.
They charge a consulting fee (retainer) for the assignment, consistent with their in-depth advisory work. Executive search firms deliver high-quality services beyond placement, a slate of highly qualified candidates, and develop long-term relationships built on trust.