Executive recruitment is not just an effort made by the recruiting consultant. The client contributes as much to the recruitment process. There are varying results of recruitment depending on the timing and/or need. Some executive recruitment processes may complete faster than others while other comprehensive searches would take more than 2 months until a candidate is placed in that executive position. Other factors and drivers contribute to how an executive recruitment process will go about. Follow these steps that are commonly used by such executive recruitment companies to let you in on how it works.

Executive recruitment begins with a consultation from the client and the recruiting consultant. The consultant gathers information about the client like the business, culture, and strategies of the company. Then they discuss the job description that is needed. Next step is defining the position and the person needed for the job. The client and consultant both contribute in enumerating the objectives, responsibilities and such that they need from the person.

Then, they have to execute their plan of action. Schedules are laid out. Strategies are created. At the same time, the country and the type of organization where the search should start are defined. The researchers or recruiters start searching for potential candidates by producing qualified names from the target companies. The second way of searching is through the recruiter’s database or network.

Once names come up, it’s time for the consultant to approach the potential candidates. Usually, the recruiter contacts the candidates through phone or emails. They make sure that the potential candidate has the necessary background for the position needed. At the same time because the recruiter has defined the objectives and job description together with the client, he or she will be able to answer all the questions that the candidate may ask. Once candidates show interest, interviews are then scheduled. This allows time to assess the candidate’s performance and qualities. This enables the candidate to learn more about the role and the company as well.

Once the interviews are done, the next step for executive recruitment is to provide a short list to the client. Profiles on the candidates are provided by the recruiting company to their clients. This can be delivered through a phone or personal meeting. Shortlist is usually composed of around four names who meet the qualifications and best fit the culture of the client’s organization. By this time, the recruiter has already verified educational, professional qualifications and the current compensation of the candidate. Even an informal referencing has been made during this time.

Now it is time for the client and candidate interviews. The executive recruiter will still assist with regards to meetings especially with the client group. The recruiter also assists in pay negotiations and a thorough referencing after the agreement. However, the executive recruitment process doesn’t stop here. They’ll follow up on the client and candidate to hear feedback about their new business relationship.