If you have decided to employ the services of retained search firms for your job seeking needs, don’t just choose the first company you see. Instead, do some comparison shopping so you can find a company that will provide you with the best service for your needs. Below are some tips that are going to help you do just that.

Tip #1: Look at Several Agencies

First, you need to consult multiple retained search firms. A good number is three. Why three? You are free to do more than three but that’s a good minimum number to shoot for because you will be able to effectively rank the companies instead of only looking at one or two. Three gives you a broader idea of what to expect from the industry as well so you don’t end up having unrealistic expectations.

Tip #2: Find Specialty Firms

For many job seekers, focusing on a particular industry is a good way to narrow down your choices. While some retained search firms are jacks of all trades, others will specialize in technical recruiting or healthcare recruiting, for example. If you are trying to get into those fields then working with one of these companies might be advantageous for you. Avoid working with executive search consultants that have a specialty if you don’t fit the needs of that specialty. Even though some employers from outside the field may work with them, you won’t find anywhere as many job possibilities that way.

Tip #3: Ask Questions

Don’t just assume that you can find everything you need to know about retained search firms from reading their websites. Instead, you should be prepared to ask questions. Most of these companies do have customer service contacts that you can read by phone or by email. They will be happy to provide you with answers before you sign up. In fact, sending questions gives you a good idea of how responsive they are going to be to your needs after you sign up as well.

As far as what questions to ask, those will vary based on your search criteria. However, you might want to ask what services they provide, which types of clients they work with, and how frequently they will be able to send you job notifications. Remember to ask about specialties, such as sales recruiting.

Tip #4: Request References

Because you are making an important decision – it is your career and financial future on the line, after all – you need to make sure you are making the right one. Don’t hesitate to ask to see references from past clients and other job seekers who have found employment. And once you have the references you should use them. Too many people take for granted that the reference is legitimate when it would be very easy just to pull together some names. Talk to the references about their experiences both positive and negative. Then use everything you have learned about the recruiting agency to make the final decision about which retained search firms you are going to hire.

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