Consider the Following Questions to Determine Which Executive Search Firm Is Right for Your Organization  Selecting an executive search firm is much like choosing a right-fit candidate for an executive-level position. You must conduct research, create a shortlist of firms, schedule meetings with each and interview them. By meeting with the firm – either virtually or in-person – you can gain an understanding of how the firm will work and communicate with your team. During the initial consultation, it’s important you ask questions that will get to the heart of what you really need to know:   Can this search firm find the best-fit candidate, provide a smooth transition and ensure long-term success?  Will this executive search firm be a trusted advisor for current and future assignments?  When choosing the right search firm for your organization’s executive-level assignments, consider the following 17 questions to determine if the firm is the right fit for your organization and assignment:  1. Is your firm an AESC member?  By confirming an executive search firm’s status as an AESC member, you are also confirming that the organization meets a strict set of ethical standards and commits to the AESC’s Code of Professional Practice. AESC members also [...]

Professional development courses can enhance your approach to executive recruitment and lead to new opportunities Despite having years of experience in the industry, senior consultants working in executive search or corporate recruiters focused on executive talent acquisition can yield great results from professional development programs. Additional enrichment can help you stand out amongst the rest when seeking partner- and managing partner-level positions or when pivoting into a new industry.   Not only will such programs help you add more value and provide superior service, but they will allow you to deepen your relationships, leading to more opportunities and new business. As a seasoned executive search or leadership consultant, you can discover how to: Find the time to nurture and sustain relationships with new and existing clients.  Help build your firm's credibility and brand.  Turn candidates into clients and foster client relationships for future business. Drive meetings and convert introductions into viable business.  Ask the power questions and learn about the latest trends. As a seasoned in-house talent specialist, you can discover how to:  Leverage peer expertise to better build internal and external relationships. Help build your organization's brand and credibility.  Ask the power questions.  Secure a seat at the table and drive meetings. Understand the [...]

Having Solid Executive Research Skills Effectively Supports the Executive Search Process  Executive research is at the core of the search process. It is the main starting component in curating a shortlist of qualified executive candidates, and ultimately, finding the right fit for an organization.   What Is Executive Research?   Executive research is the process by which organizations assess executive candidates—both active and passive—to create a shortlist of candidates that meet the qualifications of their search assignment. This is typically an early stage of the executive search process, shortly following initial meetings where candidate criteria are determined. Executive research consists of a wide variety of responsibilities including understanding the role and the necessary core competencies, establishing a framework for a diverse, equitable and inclusive search, utilizing sourcing tools and organizational networks to identify all potential candidates, creating and placing advertisements for vacancies, liaising with consultants, candidates and clients, arranging interviews and meetings, and much more. What Is the Role of an Executive Researcher in the Executive Search Process?  Executive search firms and in-house talent acquisition teams value executive research so highly that they have specifically designed roles dedicated to such audits. Those who perform these responsibilities have varying titles, with some of [...]

Stela Lupushor, Senior Fellow & Program Director, Human Capital, The Conference Board, answers critical questions about human-centered artificial intelligence for human resources.