In my 20 years of working in the retained executive search profession, I have seen many changes. When I entered into my chosen profession in 1997 with a Top 5 Executive Search Firm, the internet and how it could improve executive searches from a candidate research data point of view was just in its infancy.

Prague, Czech Republic

 

Here are some current trends that ushers us into the new world of executive search from the old world:

  • stay on top of candidate and client communications by texting instead of emailing.  This is much more current and timely and it builds trust and credibility with all. Make certain that you get back to clients and candidates within 2 hours of their questions. Staying on top of each and every communication transaction builds trust and credibility

 

  • use Skype or Apple FaceTime to interview candidates that you cannot meet with in person; zero cost to your client versus the old world use of paid videoconferencing

 

  • make a turn to be both client and candidate centric. In the old world of recruiting, the client was THE honored partner. Today, every candidate and client are honored partners in the search process. This means that every candidate you interview (even the ones who end up being lowest ranked candidate #7 from a total list of 7) are treated AS WELL as you treat your client. This pays off by enhancing your reputation in the market place and in turn it will open more doors of opportunity for your practice. Creating good Karma always is the right thing to do

 

  • don’t assume that your client wants to take 3 months to start and complete an executive search. Each client has different candidate start date goals and your search organization needs to perform to that

 

  • your fees have to make common sense to clients. Assuming that your client will always pay 30-33% of a candidate’s first year total compensation is a bad assumption. Assuming that clients also want to pay miscellaneous administration fees is false; it is distasteful to clients. Last, offering a flat fee is the best way to gain pricing integrity with your client

 

Embrace the new world of executive recruitment. You will communicate better, perform more efficiently and implement cost reductions for your clients. In turn, you will cement a long term relationship with both client and candidate and this will add tremendous value to your executive search practice.