Executive Search Firm

Typically, an executive search can take anywhere between 6- 8 weeks. After shortlisting the potential candidates and presenting them to the hiring client, final interviews are conducted with each one of them, before selecting the executive. This final step of selecting the executive happens within 7- 12 weeks of the process. The length of the executive search recruitment process depends on several criteria, like the rarity of the candidate profile, the hiring company’s decision-making time etc.

To hire the best executive search firm, you need to consider certain areas- Expertise in the industry- Should have deep knowledge about key leadership positions and the responsibilities of these roles and a good eye to recognise qualified executive talent. Should have a proven track record of representing companies with discretion and professionalism. Need to have an exceptional search team, with a fool-proof search strategy that can identify and recruit the best talent for your organization. A firm that understands the importance of your business needs and works towards finding a candidate who is tailor-made to fit your organizational structure. Must maintain complete transparency throughout the process. Must have a sense of commitment towards the hiring clients

Access to a wide network of executive-level candidates Well practised understanding of the rare skills needed for a C-suite position and the ability to identify the same Presence of a wide range of resources Can present you with a diverse range of candidates Maintains confidentiality In the event of unexpected resignations, Executive search firms prove to be most reliable in helping you find your next fit

Typically, executive search firms charge around 30-35% of the annual salary of the candidate hired. Most firms allow payments to be made in three instalments. The first instalment is usually paid when the search for the executive begins.

Some of the major differences are- Executive search firms focus on hiring for senior-level (C-suite, VP, and Director) roles as well as positions that require a specialized skill set. Recruitment agencies are typically known for hiring for more generic positions where a candidate with the necessary skills and qualifications can fill the job position. Executive search firms source for passive candidates- Candidates who aren’t looking for a job; whereas recruitment agencies target active candidates- ones who are actively looking for a job or a job change. Payment terms are different- An executive search firm charges 30-35% of the annual salary of the placed candidate, and the payment is made upfront through instalments. Recruitment agencies typically charge a small amount of fee only on the successful placement of the candidate.