For more information on what we offer
or for general inquiries, call us on

+27 21 911 2018

For more information on what we offer
or for general inquiries, call us on

+27 21 911 2018

10 Steps to Effective Executive Placements

An executive placement is an extremely important process and one that requires a great deal of thought. This complicated process is simplified into a systematic 10 step procedure in order to assist consultants in finding the right person for the job.

Step 1: Client Meeting

In order to start the process and get the ball rolling an initial meeting needs to be organised.

This meeting provides a platform for the consultant to become familiar with what you are looking for. In this initial meeting you will discuss aspects of the placements such as time restrictions, search requirements and organisational strategies.

This meeting will also give you the opportunity to discuss your corporate culture which will assist the consultant in finding an individual who will work well within that culture. It’s all about team chemistry at the end of the day.

Step 2: Client Analysis

At this point a more detailed analysis of the client should be conducted by the hiring company. In doing this the hiring company will be able to identify the key opportunities for the new executive while also developing a candidate profile. This profile is imperative as it will assist the company in finding an individual who fits into the corporate culture and company structure.

This stage may also include meeting the potential executives.

Step 3: Market Analysis

A job profile is then completed from a rigorous and in-depth analysis of the market. This analysis will outline the competitive environment which will have a major sway on the type of executive which the hiring company is looking for.

Researchers and market analysts are required for this technical part of the placement process. From this research an accurate job description can be written which will outline all information about what the position entails responsibilities and opportunities while also stating key educational and experience requirements.

Step 4: Developing a Search Strategy

Search strategy basically entails a deeper analysis of the market. All avenues which may be explored in order to source the top talent in the market will be well documented.

Step 5: Talent Mapping

Known as name generation or talent mapping this is the process of identifying talent in the market and composing a list of possibly 100 potential targets. Consultants will then begin the process of qualifying the targets to discover whether they are appropriate candidates.

Step 6: The Short List

In this part of the placement process the consultants will approach and interview the potential candidates.

Drawing up a short list requires a series of internal meetings through which the number of candidates will be reduced to no more than 10 potential candidates. This will be decided through interviews, detailed discussions regarding the responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s employment history and education, and their interest in the position.

Step 7: Verification

Before the short list is presented to the client a verification check will take place. This is a simple background check which seeks to verify the qualifications and executive background of the candidate.

If all candidates pass the verification check then the short list will be presented to the client.

Step 8: Reduce the List to 5 through Referencing

Working with the client the consultants will narrow the list down to no more than 5 candidates. Through the use of reference checks the consultants will list the final summary of the executives’ strengths and weaknesses.

Step 9: Making an Offer 

After considering the references the client will then make a decision on their preferred candidate. From there salary offers and negotiations will commence in order to come to an agreement which is suitable to both parties.

The consultant may act as the mediator during the negotiation process, acting in the interest of both parties.

Step 10: Integration

Once an agreement has been made then the process of integration will begin. The hiring company should perform regular check-ups to ensure that the executive is performing as expected and that the hiring company is satisfied with their placement.

As you can see, the executive placement procedure is not one which should be taken likely. It is a process which involves a great deal of thought, planning and time in order to find the candidate with the necessary credentials and personality to fit into the respective organisations corporate culture.  

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