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Third Party Search Firms

Executive Search Firms

Experienced job seekers often ask about using executive search firms. Generally, with a few words of caution, it makes sense to cover all bases and consider using such resources in your job search.

If you are an experienced worker with a well-defined set of skills, interests, and expertise, you might utilize the services of a search firm in addition to conducting an independent job search. But, never make the mistake of using a search firm as the sole mechanism for seeking a new job. Before agreeing to work with a search firm, do your research. Get referrals from colleagues and friends. Know which recruiters specialize in what fields. Be pro-active!

With this in mind, here are a few words of caution:
  • Use an outplacement firm only if your company (or former company) is paying the fees.
  • Use an executive search firm (recruiter) only if the company seeking to fill a position funds that firm’s fees. That means that you are not their client and you pay nothing. The client, rather, is the company with a vacancy to fill. The company pays the search firm to find legitimate candidates (retained search firms) and/or fill vacancies (contingency firms).


The links below contain tips, strategies, and links to articles, lists of recruitment firms, and the best tactics to use in working with recruiters, as well as the Riley Guide pages (THE original resource for internet job searching) of warnings and advice about recruitment scams.

Recruiter Resources:

  • Working with a Search Firm Building relationships with recruiters long before needing one is key advice from the American College of Healthcare Executives.
  • Working with Recruiters Somewhat outdated article but most points remain valid today, and worth the read; useful advice about working with recruiters.
  • Various Articles An array of articles about working effectively with recruiters.
  • Executive Search Interesting article offering insight into how corporations work with recruiters. Include great tips for job seekers too.
  • Recruiter Realities Executive career tips and tactics from Executive Career Strategies. Article: Recruiter Realities
  • Executive Search Firms A huge but not exhaustive list of executive recruiting firms.
  • Job Search and Employment Services Scams Important information about recruiting scams.



Outplacement Firms

 

If you are considering working with an outplacement firm, first ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do you have an updated and effective resume?
  • Do you have a computer and high speed internet access from home?
  • Do you have a quiet, private space for phone calls, researching companies, composing job search correspondence, and other job search related activities?
  • Are you up-to-date on conducting an effective job search?
  • Are you prepared for interviews?

If you answered yes to these questions, chances are you do not need to use an outplacement service. However, if you need office space in which to conduct your job search or to stay on task, or if you could benefit from job searching coaching, then perhaps outplacement is for you. On the other hand, your company may be willing to trade the service for a cash benefit, which could be to your advantage to negotiate. In addition, you have the services of the Duke Career Center where all aspects of the job search can be addressed and career counseling can be arranged. Please call 919-660-1050 for more information.

Do Not…

  • Engage the services of an outplacement service on your own
  • Pay to have your resume “done.”
  • Think that an outplacement service – or any other service for that matter – can guarantee you a placement!
  • Pay for any service that might be provided elsewhere for free (like at the Duke Career Center!) or for a small fee. Some outplacement firms charge hundreds to thousands of dollars for their services that may not be at all what you need.

Do…

  • Talk with your manager about the outplacement contract before accepting the offer of services.
  • Ask for and research the references of any service you use.
  • Ask up front the scope and limitations of the services provided.
  • If they talk about any type of “guarantee,” run in the other direction.
  • Read the fine print of any contract. Be sure they adhere to it.
  • Your homework and know that your job search and its success are up to you!

Outplacement Resources:




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