Why Should You Work with an Executive Search Firm?

Senior-level job seekers should consider working with professional recruiters for the added benefits they provide, such as an expanded network, industry knowledge, and finding unposted positions. Learn more about the do’s and don’ts of working with an executive search firm.

Looking for a new position, especially as an experienced professionalcan be time-consuming. While a job description gives a good indication of the role itself, it is often difficult to discern whether the companies you are considering share similar values or match the culture you are after. 

The hiring process is complex at higher levels, so the more you know early on can save you a tremendous amount of time and energy.

Instead of going it alone, work with an executive search firm. They can help you to find the right placement.

This post will cover these key points:

• What do executive search firms do

• Benefits of working with an executive search firm

• Dos and don’ts for interacting with search firms and recruiters

• Why you should consider working with Drive Talent

What do executive search firms do

Executive search firms employ expert recruiters who match top talent to open positions in the companies and organizations that hire them.

Executive search firms have deep relationships and an in-depth understanding of their clients; working closely with them to carefully define and craft the role description and strategy for attracting top talent. They help drive their client’s employment brand when targeting passive candidates in the market, and get the word out about positions that are not often posted.

For job seekers, firms also help them find positions that fit their career goals and skill sets. They have lots of knowledge about certain industries and know about positions that are not posted on websites, job boards, or other avenues. Thus, working with a search firm as a job seeker can open up many new opportunities and benefits for senior-level talent.

Benefits of working with an executive search firm

What benefits will you get from working with a recruiter? Here are just a few benefits:

• They often specialize in specific industries.

• They have large networks and are often the first to know of openings.

• They alert executive-level job seekers to opportunities that best match their goals and experience.

• They understand what the company is looking for.

• They help candidates save time that would be wasted on applying and interviewing for unsuitable positions.

• They help job seekers become visible by the employers they want to work for.

• They prioritize factors like company culture, interest, and experience matches.

Executive search firms essentially hand-pick opportunities for job seekers after getting to know their career goals, experience and background, and ideal working environment. This takes a lot of the time-consuming and stressful work off the candidate and opens many more opportunities for them.

Do’s and don’ts for interacting with search firms and recruiters

When you start working with an executive search firm or recruiter, there are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind. 

Do:

• Research firms to ensure they are legitimate.

• Read reviews or testimonials.

• Ask about fee structure upfront.

• Ask about similar clients they have helped in the past.

• Work with a firm that specializes in your industry.

• Clearly communicate your goals.

• Ask about the expected timeline.

Don’t:

• Interview for a position you are not interested in.

• Blame a recruiter for not landing a position.

• Interfere too much with the firm’s process – trust their judgment.

• Exaggerate your experience or educational background.

• Become unresponsive during the process.

• Become impatient with the firm or recruiter.

When you find the right recruiter, trust their expertise and allow them to help you find the right opportunities. But always be sure you fully vet the firm, so you feel like they truly understand what you are looking for and have lots of contacts in your specified industry.

Why work with Drive Talent?

When you feel ready to begin your search for an executive-level role, work with the team at Drive Talent, a woman-owned recruiting firm specializing in senior-level positions, sales, marketing, and cannabis. We help executives find the right roles with the right organizations to meet their career goals. We are committed to customizing our approach so that each of our clients is satisfied with the results of our time together.

Contact Drive Talent to get started on your search for the right executive-level position in your desired industry.