Like the successful fishing guide, an experienced, knowledgeable, industry-specific recruiting firm will deliver award-winning results. As the guide, the experienced recruiter will know where to find the best candidates, how to present the opportunity, and the most effective technique required to land the best candidates.
So, How is it Done? To understand that, one must first recognize there is no one-size-fits-all approach!
Successful recruiting firms employ industry specialists who previously held the same or similar positions within a specific industry. They have spent the minimum “10,000 hours” (a nod to author Malcolm Gladwell) required to become subject matter experts in a specific field, to know the inscrutable acronyms, specialties, and terms. However, just because they know the industry does not guarantee they know recruiting!
At Connexis Search Group (CSG), those who wish to be recruiters - regardless of academic credentials- are hired as apprentices/interns with a structured curriculum (a standardized, formal recruiting process). They learn the craft under the tutelage of a mentor (initially the President of CSG – yes, it’s that important!). Armed with their industry knowledge and a newfound appreciation for recruiting, they put their skills to the test, identifying those potential candidates who are not only qualified but ready for the next step in their careers.
These industry veterans maintain their technical and professional knowledge and provide consultative updates to their current and potential clients and their vast industry network contacts. The feedback obtained from this dialogue is crucial to remaining current in the industry.
Connexis Search Group recruiters employ a rigorous process beginning with the intake meeting. This client interaction incorporates an evolving checklist to accurately define the search criteria of the 'ideal’ candidate. Veteran recruiters use their industry-specific knowledge to develop a complete candidate profile tailored to each search. The search may identify 3-4 candidates who meet the ‘ideal’ search criteria.
Once potential candidates are identified, a stringent vetting process begins. Many candidates meet the grueling search criteria; however, few are presented to the client. There are numerous 'checkpoints,’ i.e., required qualifications, cultural fit, personal goals, non-compete agreements, 'endorsements’ (not to be confused with references), desired compensation, and social media profile(s), to name a few. With each candidate encounter, the standard question is always asked, "Has anything changed since our last discussion?”. The best candidates are often courted from several recruitment firms or may have applied directly to a job posting (not recommended). Senior recruiters ensure, to the extent the transparency is mutual, there are no 'surprises’ along the path to placement.
Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of recruiting experience is 'The Offer.’ The candidate has been successfully vetted and presented, stellar references confirmed, face-to-face interviews conducted – and the client has decided to make an offer! As the lead negotiator, the seasoned recruiter provides the continuity necessary to complete the process successfully. The recruiter is the trusted advisor/confidant, the consistent link in the process.
If your current recruiting firm does not take the lead on presenting the offer, you are not working with a full-service recruiting firm, and you are doing the heavy lifting! (Four critical factors when choosing a recruiting firm!)
Connexis Search Group will soon celebrate its 20th year serving the CLIA Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics (IVD), Life Sciences, and Medical Devices. With a carefully-curated database of over 350,000 names developed over that time, Connexis Search Group has placed candidates with the most respected organizations in our industry. It has become an established, professional, integrity-based recruiting firm focused on client satisfaction and a positive candidate experience.
Like many endeavors, recruiting has become a specialty. Our expertise will enable you to focus on your business while our experienced industry experts find your next award-winning employee or multi-territory expansion!