What to Expect for Your First Executive Search: A Recruiter’s Perspective
Before becoming an Executive Recruiter, I never thought Executive Search would be an area of recruiting I would ever venture into. Honestly…it used to sound intimidating to me. I came from a career in higher education where I helped college students navigate the job market. So the thought of speaking with c-suite level candidates with significant years of experience and 6-figure plus salaries felt like a whole different universe. But after being in this area of recruiting for a little while now, I’ve learned otherwise. Don’t get me wrong, Executive Search is certainly different, but the candidates are human just like any other experience-level candidate. So if you’re new to Executive Search or thinking of getting into it, here are a few things to think about for your first Executive Search:
It Takes Time
Filling an executive role doesn’t happen in a few weeks…that’s something that took me a little bit to learn. I came from being an in-house recruiter, where I was filling some roles in a matter of weeks to now taking a few months to fill a role. When done right, filling an executive role can take anywhere from 3 months to a year (yup you read that right). So patience and perseverance are major keys in this work.
It’s All in the Details
One of the reasons clients pay for the executive search process is because of the time spent in the details. The process involves detailed candidate reports summarizing entire career experiences, frequent client meetings, and producing candidate process reports .The process may be different depending on the client but becoming comfortable in the details is a must.
It’s a Team Effort
Now I’m sure there are some Executive Search practices out there that have a singular person handling everything from business development to sourcing. However, in my experience, having a team to divide those responsibilities among can be extremely helpful. Having a supportive team handling different aspects of the search process improves the experience for both the client and the candidate.
So yes, Executive Search on average tends to be a lengthier and more detailed process. But with the right structure and supportive team, it can be a rewarding professional experience. If a former higher education professional can transition into this career, Executive Search is not as intimidating as it sounds after all.
Meet the Author
Eric Frans
Executive Recruiter, Executive Search
An Executive Search is about more than finding talent; it’s finding your future.
Leaders are a catalyst for success, the drivers of business growth and prosperity. Through our vast network of high-level candidates, we bridge the gap between growth-oriented clients and the key to their future success.