What's Your Real Objective?
Occasionally, a prospect will reluctantly admit to giving their business to one of the ‘Big Five’ search firms because they ‘felt it was safe’. I don’t begrudge them. Sometimes they’re new to the role and don’t want to stick their neck out by trying an untested supplier, or the company already has previous ties to that recruiter. But I suspect some are thinking of their own careers - hoping to improve their personal profile and relationship with that ‘Big Five’ firm. This could be a good strategy IF they’re a big enough fish, and IF the search firm does a good job, but if not… they could just end up with a mediocre employee and a recruiting contact with more interest in them as a client than a candidate. Not much of a payoff! If you’re looking to improve your profile in the marketplace, find a recruiter who’ll take a few minutes to give you some honest feedback on your resume, interview skills and overall image. Broadcast a clear, professional message to as many recruiters, contacts and referral sources as possible to make yourself ‘top of mind’ when an opportunity arises. Then, and only then, reward that recruiter with your executive search business. A search firm’s job is to find the best talent for the position they’re trying to fill, so having a relationship with a recruiter won’t make you a candidate for opportunities unless you fit the profile anyway. But what it will get you is some honest feedback, possibly a few good leads and, more important, an ally who already knows you and your organization when you need to find talent quickly. Then, you win both ways. Graham Carver, President
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Cambridge Management Blog
by Graham Carver, President
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