Contacting search firms and staying front of mind

The first guideline for spontaneous introductions to executive search firms is simple; do your research and contact those firms that are in line with your areas of expertise (functional and / or industry) and that can best support you in reaching your next career move.

Therefore, when reaching out, let the search firm know how your skills and experience correspond to their practice areas (a “practice” typically refers to a specialised area or sector that the firm focuses on when recruiting high-level executives). It is worth being mindful of how they operate and that you would like to connect in anticipation of future mandates that may best suit your professional profile.

Accordingly, the following checklist:

• Ensure that your CV is up-to-date and relevant
• Ensure it includes a summary of your current role
• Highlight key achievements in your past positions
• Be willing for full disclosure and maintain an attitude of openness — the search consultant/partner needs to know accurate information about you to best decide on whether you are a suitable long/short list candidate
• Provide accurate remuneration details (breakdown of full package, all benefits). This will enable the consultant to negotiate on your behalf when necessary
• Should your compensation include either a Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) or Short-Term Incentive Plan (STIP), know the vesting schedule as this can be critical when negotiating a future change in employment
• Openness to sharing information:  The recruiter may contact you as a source for other search mandates. A willingness to share contacts will make the consultant predisposed to support you in the future
• Have prepared copies of educations diplomas, degrees and certificates
• Have at the ready the names and contact details of referees for the search firm to contact, if required

Remember, the goal is getting in front of search firms so that they can then disclose opportunities to you. Regardless of the type of recruitment partner you are sending your profile to – search firm or placement agency – we all have one key objective: to find the candidate that best responds to the requirements of the position and the culture of the company that is hiring, as well as to present an opportunity that is in line (and makes sense!) with your ideal next career move.

Borrer Executive Search – Our reputation is in providing bespoke search services. We are meticulous and thorough, and by applying comprehensive search processes, we build strategic talent pipelines of senior professionals that fit the requirements of the role and your organisations culture.

The Career Lab addresses the development needs of all levels of candidates and offers a range of custom-made services to support them in their professional development, career transition or employment search.  Changing your job provides a rare opportunity to assess and reflect on your past career path, before you set the direction for your next move.  Whether you are considering a career change or actively seek new employment, our Career Lab operates in a spirit of action-oriented exploration and experimentation, to help you make the most of this opportunity.