Selecting an Executive Search firm is comparable to choosing any business advisor. You should choose that advisor carefully. In our view, things to look for in your executive search partner include:

• A proven track-record in your industry: comprehensive industry knowledge and an extensive network amongst industry executives is critical to the success of a search assignment;
• A consultant that you can get on with, who will reflect your company well in the eyes of potential candidates and who understands your requirements;
• The capability and experience to enable a truly international search if required;
• An internal, rather than 'outsourced', research function including industry specialists and linguistic skills as required;
• Enthusiasm, professionalism and dedication to your assignment.

An executive search assignment involves a complex process that requires a substantial investment of your time and resources. Accordingly, you are entitled to receive the highest level of service. A recent survey of users of executive search services identified seven critical service attributes:

• Confidential treatment of information exchanged during the assignment;
• A clear understanding of the client's culture, the position to be filled and the required background and experience and competencies;
• Market intelligence on the availability of candidates;
• A comprehensive knowledge of the industry in which the search will be conducted;
• A policy of not recruiting from the client company for a prescribed period of time after the search is performed;
• Close consultation with the key decision makers both in the initial analysis of the client's needs and in the process of assessing candidates.