An executive search firm is a professional service that focuses on recruiting executives for their clients. It’s an important service because clients rely on the skills and expertise of the executive search firm to understand and have contacts in key industries, so they can quickly and effectively locate candidates that will best meet the client’s needs. Not all executive search firms are able to deliver what you need, so you should know what to look for. Here’s what makes a great executive search firm.

What About Research Skills?

The top executive firms should have the level of skills and knowledge to deliver the high-caliber candidates you need for your business.

• How experienced are they with investigative research?
• What resources do they use?
• Will they dig deep (beyond the surface) to find the candidates you need?

What About Talent Evaluation?

The top executive firms should be able to find and evaluate talent. They should be able to offer input on how well the candidate will fulfill your staffing requirement.

• How comprehensive is their evaluation?
• Does the evaluation include a review of a candidate’s job outlook and motivation?
• Are they acting in your best interests?

What About Advocacy?

The top executive firms should be influencers in the industries that they serve. They should be able to seek and contact those candidates who will be ideally suited for roles in your company.

• How effective are they at advocating for your company?
• Do they have the contacts and insider knowledge to give you an edge?
• Are they able and willing to go after the candidates you need?

How Business Savvy Are They?

The top executive firms should have a firm grasp on how the businesses work and understand what you need them to deliver for your success. They should understand where to start in their search for the ideal candidates for your business. They should also understand what incentives and drivers may be effective to open the doors for discussion and entice top candidates to consider opportunities with your company.

• Do they understand how business works?
• Do they have the depth of knowledge that’s necessary to get you the candidates you need for your company’s needs?
• Do they understand where they can find the executive-level talent and expertise to fulfill your candidacy requirements?

The role of top executive firms is not an easy one. It requires understanding and knowledge that’s can’t just be learned overnight. That’s why it’s so important to look for a firm that has the years of experience you need. You need an executive search firm that understands what you need, but who also has the industry-level contacts that will deliver the candidates. Learn more here.