Retained Search
Designed for vacancies where our clients require a real commitment to deliver quality results quickly or confidentially
As a trusted partner for a number of leading UK companies, our retained search service offers you complete peace of mind that your business-critical or confidential new hire will be managed as a priority by an industry expert who understands your market and the specific needs of your business.
Your dedicated search consultant will provide expert advice on the most effective way to fill your vacancy using our comprehensive and discreet search service. They will identify and approach carefully targeted candidates following in-depth market research, and will be responsible for the end-to-end delivery of your project in a timeframe that suits your needs.
Each retained search project we are appointed to manage is completely unique and, as such, we tailor our selection methods for every individual assignment. For example we will design a bespoke, industry- and function-specific competency based interview and/or assessment exercise that is completely aligned to your company’s brief. This ensures that we only put the very best shortlist of candidates in front of you in the first place, mitigating the risk of any frustrating or costly delays later in the process.
Assignment Briefing and Market Research
We seek a full understanding of the challenge ahead. This means that we need to know exactly what you want to achieve and the issues you face in the market. The job brief is a good start, but we also need a true understanding and appreciation of your organisation and its culture.
We conduct a thorough analysis of the market, as the challenge in any recruitment campaign is attracting talent. The best people are not usually active in the market – they are in work and enjoying it, and if they are valued by their employer they will be looked after. The success of the campaign relies on knowing where to access the best people and having the knowledge and skill to attract them.
Once we've found the target audience we make contact. The sources open to us are direct search, advertised selection and database searches. The best solution is often a blend of all three options.
The most important thing is that you will work with a search consultant who has the talent and knowledge to represent you in the market. One who will be credible with your target audience, understand their unique needs and be able to relate your employer vision, culture and brand positively to those you wish to engage with.
You will only see the people who have successfully passed our selection process – those candidates who are committed to the overall recruitment process and who have the skills, technical understanding, attitudes and aspirations that meet your requirements and, above all else, who share your values.
The shortlist is always supplemented with additional information that you don't get from a CV. We present our expert views on a candidate’s suitability, their aspirations and why they are interested in your business, as well as, importantly, our expert views on their weaknesses.
Although this is your part of the process, you will still need our help. Effective, timely communication is vital to a successful recruitment campaign. You'll need accurate feedback and guidance on the candidates’ thoughts and feelings about the opportunity. The candidates will need to feel wanted and that we value their time and effort. However, you don't need to spend time to ensure this happens – you can rely on us to do the work for you.
When it comes to offering there should be no surprises. All requirements are made clear from the start; however attitudes and situations change, so this is always a delicate time in the campaign. We will assist you in securing the person you want.
The right candidate in place is the best way to measure the success of a campaign but it isn't everything. A close partnership should improve over time, so we seek to develop by learning from each and every campaign. The goal is to achieve the highest standard of service in all projects and to deliver complete satisfaction.