One of my coaching clients recently asked me why headhunters are important in the job search process. It’s a good question — and one that cuts to the core of what makes an effective job search at the executive level.

Headhunters have far more influence than most people realize.

Understanding what they do, knowing how to build relationships with them, and learning to be their go-to candidate are key to accessing the best opportunities.

Once you grasp how to get past the headhunter to the client, and how to leverage executive search consultants throughout the process, you’ll find yourself in the running for the roles and offers you’ve always wanted.

Headhunters do more than just introduce you to the company:

• They help the hiring manager define the role, shaping the very position you might fill.
  • What this means for the candidate: headhunters are involved from the very beginning, meaning they understand exactly what the hiring manager wants. By maintaining a good relationship with the headhunter, you can gain insights into the key aspects of the role and tailor your approach accordingly.
• They offer expertise on compensation, organizational structure, and market realities, often advising the company to adjust based on their market knowledge.
  • What this means for the candidate: headhunters influence aspects like compensation and role structure, which could work in your favor. If you build trust with them, they might advocate for a more favorable compensation package or a role that better fits your skill set.
• They decide whom to approach for the job and choose who gets put forward for interviews. Being on their shortlist matters.
  • What this means for the candidate: headhunters act as gatekeepers. If they believe you’re a strong match, you’re more likely to be presented to the company. Making a strong impression on a headhunter can mean the difference between being considered or overlooked.
• They position candidates to the company, presenting you in the best light while also managing any concerns.
  • What this means for the candidate: headhunters craft a narrative around your strengths and fit for the role. By aligning closely with them, you can ensure they present you in a way that highlights your best qualities and preemptively addresses any potential red flags.
• They prepare candidates for interviews, giving inside knowledge on what the hiring manager really wants to hear.
  • What this means for the candidate: headhunters know what the hiring manager is looking for and can help you tailor your responses. Leveraging their guidance can significantly improve your performance during interviews.
• They challenge hiring managers when they disagree, defending candidates they believe in and even shaping the hiring process to improve outcomes.
  • What this means for the candidate: If a headhunter believes in you, they will advocate for you even if the hiring manager has reservations. Building a strong relationship with them means you have someone in your corner, pushing for you to get a fair chance.
• They manage the entire process, ensuring it moves at the right speed for everyone involved, and sometimes pulling a candidate out if red flags arise.
  • What this means for the candidate: headhunters keep the process on track and ensure that things move smoothly. Keeping in close contact with them helps you stay informed about timelines and ensures you can address any issues before they become deal-breakers.
• They amplify candidates’ voices, surfacing concerns strategically, advising when the fit isn’t right, and advocating for offers when it is.
  • What this means for the candidate: executive search consultants can help convey your concerns in a way that maintains positive relations with the company. They also advocate for you when it comes to offers, ensuring your interests are represented effectively.

Headhunters have the inside track on the process, the hiring manager, and even on the nuances of what’s really going on. Their perspective matters.

Understanding how to work effectively with executive search consultants—from the stories of executives who mastered this, to practical steps you can take to do the same—can make all the difference.

PS. If you are struggling with your job search, I am here to help. You can reach me at kristof@topexec.solutions​

​