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Why Use Retained Executive Search Staffing Firms

March 10, 2022 | By: Scott Lard

When it comes to finding a job through a staffing agency, there are typically two types of searches that recruiters use. There are contingency searches and retained searches, both of which aim to find the ideal, experienced, and pre-screened candidate for an empty position. However, the differences between these two different searches make each better for some candidates than others. For example, candidates that work in executive level positions may prefer to get work through a staffing agency using retained executive search.

To explain why, we’ll go over what a retained executive search is, the pros of these types of searches, and how it might be beneficial for executives in the market for new positions.

Retained Executive Search Candidate

What is a Retained Executive Search?

A retained executive search is a recruitment strategy in which a staffing firm is hired to conduct a search for specific executive-level positions. The staffing firm takes a retainer, or payment, to find the right candidate for a specific position. Usually in retained executive searches, the staffing agency is paid regardless of who is hired for the job and when. Although retained executive searches are typically more expensive than contingency searches, they usually are more time-intensive and thorough since the positions involved are high-impact. The types of positions that businesses may use a retained executive search for include CEO, CFO, VP, and similar. As a result, retained executive searches are considered a premium service for staffing agencies.

Benefits of Retained Executive Searches to Businesses

Businesses use retained executive searches to reap the many benefits of this kind of recruitment. With a retained executive search, companies receive a more detailed consultation and personalized level of customer service with their staffing agency. In addition, businesses are more likely to find the type of candidate they are looking for, as retained executive searches require an in-depth screening process and access to passive candidates. Passive candidates are the type of employees who are not actively seeking new positions. They are usually higher qualified and more specialized in their field.

Retained Executive Search Disucssion

Benefits of Retained Executive Searches to Candidates

As for candidates, retained executive searches are the ideal way to get a new position for a variety of reasons. One main benefit to candidates is that they’ll have access to c-level positions that are not available publicly. This is because staffing firms who represent companies that are looking to fill top positions like CEO and CFO do so while the position is unlisted. Another benefit to working with a staffing agency that does retained executive searches is that candidates have a higher likelihood of landing a high-level position. Typically the pool of talent that a staffing firm pulls from for these kinds of searches is much smaller, so candidates have a better chance of securing the job. Fostering a relationship with a staffing agency that works in retain executive searches can result in getting a dream position and a desirable salary – all without having to send out any resumes.

Find Executive Search Professionals That Works for Your Business

When you choose the right executive staffing firm, they will bring you the right top-level talent for open high-impact positions throughout the greater Houston area and beyond. You will want to find a staffing team that has a wide network of business relationships and a large pool of qualified talent that they have spent years building which will come with a pool of experienced, knowledgeable, and pre-screened candidates.

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