Executive Recruitment – Sourcing, Research, and Events
Hello everyone! I’ve noticed a lot of discussions around Executive Search in this community, and I have a specific question I’d love some input on. My background is primarily in tech recruitment, but I’ve transitioned into our internal executive search function this year, where we aim to fill around 40-50 VP/SVP+ positions annually across various business sectors, utilizing a blend of retained firms and internal sourcing/referrals.
Currently, apart from partnering with retained firms, we heavily rely on LinkedIn for sourcing candidates, but we lack sufficient data to guide our decisions regarding compensation and tools aimed at attracting diverse talent, a key objective for 2025. I understand that executive search often leans on networking and staying attuned to potential candidates, but I’m curious if there are any platforms, data tools, or events you consider essential for executive search—especially if budget were not a constraint.
In tech recruitment, I had access to numerous tools beyond LinkedIn, such as Gem for outreach, search, and market data collection, as well as Gartner reports and LinkedIn insights, alongside various industry events to engage with candidates. However, I find myself at a loss when it comes to similar resources in executive search. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
Hi there! It sounds like you’re at an exciting intersection of tech and executive recruitment, and there are definitely some strategies and tools that can help elevate your exec search function. Here are some suggestions based on the challenges you’ve shared:
LinkedIn Salary Insights: While you already use LinkedIn, diving deeper into the Salary Insights feature can provide useful data specific to the roles you’re hiring for.
Diversity Hiring Tools:
Whipster: This tool focuses on sourcing diverse talent and can help you create a more inclusive hiring strategy.
Executive Recruiting Platforms:
ExecuNet: A network specifically for executives, allowing you access to a pool of high-caliber candidates.
Industry-Specific Events:
Meetup or Eventbrite: Look for local networking events or tech meetups that target executives in your field, which can lead to fresh prospects.
Research Tools:
Gartner and Forrester Reports: While costly, these reports can provide insights into industry trends that help you understand the caliber of candidates you need and potential shifts in the market.
Networking and Referrals:
Leverage your existing tech connections by asking them for referrals or if they know of any executives looking for opportunities. Often, execs active in their networks are open to discussions.
Sourcing Tools:
In short, branching out of your reliance on LinkedIn and investing in a combination of the above tools and platforms can provide you with a more comprehensive approach to exec recruitment. Good luck in your journey to enhance your executive search capabilities!