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The different between Headhunter, Recruiter and Executive search

When looking for a recruiting service, it’s important to understand the different types of recruitment professionals out there. Headhunters are typically focused on senior-level positions, whereas recruiters can fill a range of roles. Executive search firms deal exclusively with C-level and VP-level jobs. Knowing who to contact and what they do can help you better target your candidates. Let’s discover in this post today the differences between those three terms!

Executive Search vs Recruitment

Job Hunting Role

Recruiting companies typically take a more reactive approach to finding people. Jobs are posted online via employment websites, in newspapers and magazines, or on social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, so that potential employees will easily find them.

In contrast, executive search services actively assist in locating qualified personnel. They make direct contact with candidates who are the best fit for the position. Companies frequently collaborate with HR to understand the precise demands.

Process of Matching Candidates

Typically, recruiting agencies use a passive or reactive search approach. They post a job opening, gather CVs in bulk, and then get in touch with interested candidates.

To fill such roles, headhunting firms, however, need to be more proactive. To find the best applicants, they use a more methodical and systematic approach. A tight market mapping exercise is frequently used in the hiring process to generate a list of potential candidates. 

Type of Candidates

Most of the time, recruitment companies target active applicants. They are job-seeking candidates with prepared resumes. In general, people are not motivated in their existing roles. Such candidates are attracted by passive recruitment methods used by recruitment agencies.

Alternatively, passive candidates are sought after by executive search firms. They are not actively seeking a career change, in contrast to active candidates. These prospects are the target of an executive search firm that tries to persuade them to accept a tempting job offer.

Working on Local vs. Global Mandates

Typically, recruitment agencies focus on finding local applicants. They look for individuals who live close to the location of the client’s office.

On the other hand, executive search firms are capable of conducting global searches for executives, including C-level personnel. For large multinational corporations looking to find a candidate with foreign experience, the services are vital. Negotiations on compensation will be conducted by the business in an effort to empower the executive’s decision.

Job Roles

Recruitment companies usually look for applicants with a broad skill set for a variety of professions. The generalist agencies are available to help fill any position at the company.

On the other hand, executive search firms look for applicants who have a certain skill set. In general, they are looking for people with extremely specialized talents.

Executive Search Consultant vs. Headhunter

The term “headhunter” is very figurative and conjures up the idea of a hunter who is after a particular quarry. And the aim in this instance is a head position! Headhunting isn’t as cruel as it may seem in actuality. 

Nevertheless, the comparison is appropriate when referring to recruiters who go above and beyond to discover the right applicant. These experts do not just focus on candidates who are actively seeking employment; they search widely for exceptional talent.

Working with a headhunting firm has this benefit. Headhunters explore the market using their contacts, resources, and knowledge to present their clients with the best candidates in line with their corporate objectives. 

Executive search and headhunting services are comparable in practice. An executive search consultant will use every effort, similar to a headhunter, to find the best applicant for a post. The amount of follow-up given to clients makes a significant difference. In this aspect, the executive search procedure is significantly more extensive.

In Conclusion,

If you are interested in learning more about the difference between headhunters, recruiters, and executive search firms, or if you would like to speak with one of our experienced consultants for advice on your specific situation, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to provide you with additional information or answer any questions you may have. Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and we hope it has been helpful.