When you utilize the services of an executive search firm, you put a tremendous amount of trust in the capabilities of that firm, especially in the HR field. The firm you select will bring employees to your company that will quickly be involved in staffing and personnel decisions, which can reverberate throughout the organization. Before employing a search firm to meet your company’s HR needs, consider asking a number of questions about the firm you will be entrusting with such an important process.

Does the search firm have HR experience?

Optimally, what is needed in this process is a search firm with extensive experience in HR staffing. The best firms respond to the need for an experienced partner in the search for qualified human resource professionals with a deep understanding of the HR field. If possible, some of the search firm’s staff should have first hand HR experience.

Does the firm work closely with clients?

The most sought after executive search firms provide their clients with a team of highly trained recruiters who work closely with client companies and staff to better understand the organization’s challenges. A good search firm should offer qualified human resource professionals from the junior to executive level. So, whether a permanent or contract solution is needed, a selection of candidates ideally qualified for the opportunity will be available.

Has the search firm studied your organization’s structure?

To optimize service, good executive search firms must generate a thorough understanding of the culture, business goals and unique dynamics of the client organization. In order to gain that understanding, search firm representatives should visit your company and meet the people involved in the hiring process for the highest level of success. This highly personalized approach helps the search firms develop the knowledge required to not only evaluate credentials but, just as importantly, determine whether a candidate will fit within a company.

Does the search firm eliminate inappropriate candidates from the list?

A strong executive search firm will realize the value of a client’s time and work to structure a process that assures the client of meeting only the most qualified professionals. A good search firm will confirm each applicants compatibility with a company’s environment, verify reference and provide the client with detailed information rather that a stack of resumes and flood of “possibilities.”

Elaine Arons is with Human Resources International, an international contingency search firm with a singular focus on HR placement.