Choosing the Right Recruiters

Like your network, not all recruiters are created equal. At the executive level, you do not need dozens of them. You need the right few who truly understand your world and have a proven track record. The best recruiters bring three critical things: market intelligence, access, and advocacy. They provide insight into salary benchmarks, cultural dynamics, and where leadership demand is heading. They open doors to roles that never reach the public market. And they position your story in a way that helps boards, CEOs, and executive teams see your value before you even walk into the room.

Choosing the right recruiters is about precision, not volume. You should be asking whether they specialise in your domain, whether they are trusted at the level you operate, and whether they have the influence to place your name into the right conversations. A small number of well-aligned search partners who understand your leadership style and career direction will create far more opportunity than trying to engage with everyone.

The real question is not how many recruiters know you. It is whether the right ones believe in you enough to advocate for you when it matters most.

Practical tip
Create a short list of recruiters who specialise in your sector and seniority. Research their recent placements and reach out to those whose track record aligns with where you want to go next.

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