Just completed a search project with a new client. The client met with our firm on December 16th and she had a very tall order. She wanted the open executive position offered and accepted by mid January with a start date of early February.
If you know anything about the executive staffing industry, it is nearly impossible to get people interested in a new opportunity during the Holidays. Most executives take off the last 10 days of December and if they are working, it is usually a light schedule. Also, most executive searches take 3 months to complete.
Very happy to report we were able to fill the job with an excellent candidate yesterday and the start date is February 3rd.
How were we able to make this happen so quickly?
First of all, yes, there was a little of luck involved. Second, we used 4 people in total on this project, including me. Last, our client was terrific to work with and showed herself to be an excellent leader and communicator with my team.
The client knew exactly what she was looking for in an executive leader and was able to define and communicate that vision to us. She was also able to be available at any time during this quick search process and we could contact her by text or phone call or email, anytime. Not only was she motivated, she had a compelling story to tell about the company and opportunity. Last, my firm was super motivated to help her and match her sense of urgency because we did not want to let her down. She treated us like an equal Partner in the process (and not just a vendor). There is a big difference.
With successful projects you cannot, as an executive search firm, do it alone. Your client Partner has to share with the heavy lifting to insure that the search does not flounder and that you complete the project within the time constraints.
When the client and search firm work hand in hand, success is the only logical outcome.
