Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring Us or Anyone Else...

1. What is the search consultant’s process?
   You need to know upfront the search firm's process for understanding your needs and managing the recruiting process. Ask specific questions to find out how they identify and recruit potential candidates. Will they rely on their database or actively recruit targeted individuals for your position?
   
   
2. Has the search firm saturated your industry, making it harder for them to recruit for you? What is the firm’s "off-limits" policy? What companies are currently "off limits" to the firm?
   National search firms and larger firms may create a competitive disadvantage for your company. These firms have such a high volume of projects underway at any given time that they are often forced to recruit from their own clients, which will negatively impact your business. If larger firms have a policy to not recruit from its clients, you automatically will not see key individuals from your competitors.
   
   
3. How long will the search process take from start to finish?
   Ask about their average time to completion. Understand their process. How will they communicate with you?
   
   
4. Who will be responsible for conducting and managing your search -- the same person who sold you the project or a junior recruiter / researcher?
   You want to be sure that the firm is putting its best people on your project and that it's a high priority. Unlike larger search firms, cSTONE & ASSOCIATES is not about quantity. Instead we concentrate on building solid relationships with fewer clients. The same person you meet with initially will be responsible for conducting and managing your search, supported by expert research & recruiting staff. We do not pass off your important project to junior associates.
   
   
5. Will the search consultant be a credible ambassador for your organization?
   The firm you hire is a direct reflection of your company. Know the principals to gain an understanding of how they operate in the business community and to gauge their level of professionalism. Be sure their image and reputation are consistent with how you want your business represented.
   
   
6. What about service after completion of the search?
   Retention rates are highest when the search firm maintains contact with the successful candidate, his/her spouse and the client to ensure a smooth transition during the first twelve months.
   
   
7. What is the current search load?
   Anything over five or six current assignments means that your search won't get the time and attention it deserves
   
   
8. What is the guarantee?
   What happens if the search is not completed after one slate of candidates, after two slates, etc.? (Some larger search firms have a reputation of "walking away" from incomplete projects; small firms cannot afford to do so.) What happens if the selected candidate does not work out?
   
   
9. What are the fees and what is their policy on expense reimbursement?
   Is the fee arrangement clear to you? Do they put it in writing? Are expenses to be billed in addition to the fee? What is the typical amount of expenses incurred for comparable searches? At cSTONE & ASSOCIATES, our fee structure is straightforward and is put forth in writing. Unlike many firms, expenses are not a hidden profit center for us.
   
   
10. Why is the search consultant the best choice for you?
    
    
11. Can you work with the consultant comfortably? Is there good rapport between the two of you? Do you trust them as you would your attorney or accountant?
    

“I first met Carrie when she was a Venture Partner with Enterprise Partners, which was an investor in the company where I was the Founder & CEO. She has that rare combination of being very focused and analytical while instantly making other people feel warm and relaxed. I have seen her get better, more detailed information from entrepreneurs than her other colleagues with this approach. She is very ambitious and results oriented. I cannot think of anyone who is a better networker.”

Ken Selzer
Venture Partner
Finistere Ventures