The Process of an Executive Search
The typical executive search consists of several steps that can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. First, the hiring company will contact a consultant at an executive search firm with an open position. A good consultant will develop a solid understanding of the organization and its needs through meetings and research.
Together, the company and consultant will generate a written description of the position, qualifications and a salary range, a general timetable, contact information within the hiring company, and will establish whatever fees, expenses, and terms of cancellation apply.
Executive search consultants rely heavily on networking and may have existing contacts that fit the qualifications for the open position. The search consultant might also consider candidates who have contacted the search firm seeking employment opportunities or those who have been referred through colleagues or associates. This stage also includes thorough background checks into the candidates' employment history, education, and public legal records. During this period, the consultant will make regular progress reports to the client.
Once a pool of qualified candidates is identified, a list and supporting documents are sent to the client company for consideration. In short, the executive search consultant does all of the footwork for the company so that it can focus on actually choosing the right candidate once a pool of applicants is found.
Some executive search firms specialize within a particular industry.
Some may focus on executives with backgrounds in finance or law, while others excel at locating candidates for technical positions. Whatever the needs of a client may be, there is certainly a consultant that specializes in finding executives to fill that niche.
By Matthew Bendert
