- It can be a time for in-depth self assessment and evaluation to determine how best to use one's talents and abilities.
- It can be the chance to take a different course, fulfill an ambition, or make an impact in a new area.
- It can offer the opportunity to take on new responsibilities and discover new strengths and new resources.
- During this sensitive and critical period it is important to be concerned with the standards and normal procedures of individuals and organizations in whom you place your trust.
- Here are just a few of the aspects of the AESC search process of which you should be aware, and many are dealt with at greater length elsewhere in this Pocket Guide:
- Search consultants are retained to fill bona-fide executive vacancies. In other words, consultants recruit people for jobs. As such, no consultant should take your background information or resume and send it to an organization unless that consultant is working on a specific assignment. When you as a candidate send an unsolicited resume to a search firm, such information is reviewed and retained for appropriateness relative to future search assignments. You probably won't be contacted unless your qualifications match search specifications underway.
- The search process requires consultants to meet with clients to develop understanding of the client's organization, needs and position to be filled. Written documentation of the position is provided, and independent research on the client's industry is be-gun. A comprehensive search for qualified candidates and an evaluation of potential candidates is then undertaken. This process includes in-depth interviews and verification of the candidate's credentials. Comprehensive reference checking is conducted either before or after the candidate is presented to the client, but before a final selection has been made.
- Confidentiality is the distinguishing mark of a professional executive search consultant, and candidates can be assured that all information shared in the search process is held in confidence. If you are being considered, your availability will not be discussed without your permission.
- A significant value of an executive search is the objectivity that the consultant brings to the task. It is the consultant who assesses the fit between candidate and client's requirements, and upon whose recommendation the client relies. The threefold relationship between client, candidate and consultant must be characterized by candor and honesty. When honesty breaks down in any sector, the process is seriously impeded. Candidates, therefore, have a responsibility to be honest about their credentials, experiences and qualifications. They must make full disclosure to the consultant of their present situation, goals and ambitions. Candidates are also expected to maintain confidentiality about the specifics of the search, the company and information acquired.
- Every candidate desires a successful, satisfying experience in the relationship with a search consultant. If the interaction is marked by honesty, confidentiality and mutual respect, it can grow into a trusting, long-term relationship which will continue to benefit the executive and his or her company.
Whatever their size or specialty, they all adhere to the AESC Code of Ethics and Professional Practice Guidelines. The AESC mission is to establish, maintain and enforce the highest professional standards in executive search consulting. The Association provides a system for investigating complaints that member firms have failed to adhere to these standards, and either client or candidate may complain if these standards are questioned. Appropriate disciplinary action is taken against member firms when the AESC Board determines that such complaints are justified.
Executive Search consultancy is a highly valued, respected component of management consulting increasingly serving businesses and organizations worldwide so it is extremely important that all participants in the process adhere to the highest ethical standards.
Former chairman of the Association of Executive Search Consultants is managing director for the Southeast Region of Korn/Ferry International, based in Atlanta. He joined the firm, after many years in higher education and investment banking, and he chairs his firm's Professional Practices and Training Committee.
