Simple Tips to Speed-Up Your Executive Search
No client says I have a critical position to fill, take as long as you need. Usually it’s quite the opposite, once an organization has decided they need to fill a role, they want that person tomorrow and while that isn’t possible, a company can take these steps to speed up the process.
Get clear agreement on the job description by the senior leaders. The most common mistake organizations make when creating or redefining an executive role is vague agreement on the position duties by the senior leaders. People can often have different interpretations of the responsibilities of a new position. Then, when an executive search firm begins submitting candidates, these differences come to light and precious time is spent ironing out the details after the search has begun and candidates have shown interest.
Not only does delayed agreement cost an organization time, but it can result in a candidate losing interest in a position if they feel there is confusion at the top. If a search has to restart multiple times as the role becomes redefined it can double or triple the search process timeline. Also of importance is a tightly managed and scheduled interview timeline. This attention to administrative details avoids major delays that lengthen the search process.
The lesson here is to have senior leaders all sign off on a clearly defined job description and to be available to interview candidates in a tight timeframe. If you need help in writing one, or understanding what should be included in an executive job description, or help in filling a new position reach out to HRG Search or send a message to Brenda Snyder via LinkedIn.