How Does an Executive Search Work?

Have you ever wondered exactly what goes on behind the scene in an executive search? The process can be broken down into 4 stages: preparation, talent sourcing, selection, and follow-up. If you understand the executive search and hiring process, you may gain insight that will help you in attracting hiring influencers and during the selection process.

Preparation. This stage includes meetings between employer and search firm to narrow down the job description, ideal requirements, and get an idea of a good culture fit. The search firm does research about the corporate culture, the needs of the team and the overall organization, and ensures they have the information needed to narrow a search.

Talent Sourcing. Using social media such as LinkedIn, databases of talent such as BlueSteps*, market analysis, and their own networks, the search begins. Potential candidates are listed, then researched and vetted to see if they qualify for the “short list”. Included in this vetting process are calls to candidates to assess both suitability and availability.

Selection. A short list of qualified candidates is given to the employer, who conducts interviews. They want to know who you are, how you fit into their organization, and what value you add. Candidates are discussed after each interview, and the list is narrowed to a preferred candidate. Then the offer is tendered and negotiation is carried out.

Follow-up. Most executive search firms offer integration and support even after the contracts are signed, as they have a vested interest in a successful long term result.

At any of these four stages, even though the employer is ultimately the search firm’s client, the Executive Recruiter can be a strong ally for a job candidate. Every conversation with the recruiter is an audition for a job and for a powerful potential ally!

*BlueSteps is a discreet resource of the Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants, a database and matching service for executives to enable over 8800 executive recruiters to access a candidate’s career profile to assist in making successful matches between candidates and positions. Interested in joining? I’m on their list as a top Resume Writer and Executive Coach, and you can use my password (Buckland20) for a 20% discount on your membership.