A headhunter or executive search firm always seeks out the most talented executives, right? Well, innate talent is only part of the equation. Top executive search teams look for candidates with more than talent—they look for executives with the right skills, experience, and character.
But how do you identify the most qualified executives to lead your organization? Here are a few key traits to focus on during your executive search.
A Clear Vision
Vision is about thinking ahead and planning for the future with creativity and drive. Candidates with a firm grasp of the big picture, with clear goals and objectives, should be at the top of your list. But vision isn't just about ideas. It means taking action too. You want leaders who confidently know where they want the organization to go and how to get there. The best leaders can articulate their vision and inspire others to follow them to achieve it.
A Track Record of Success
You can't ignore an executive's past roles, experiences, wins, and even—failures. Successful leaders will have a history of measurable achievements, whether it's managing a large team, increasing sales, or launching noteworthy products.
Reviewing a prospect's past achievements will showcase how their experience and skills can bring positive and meaningful contributions to your organization. Plus, if an executive has consistently delivered positive results, it's a good chance they'll continue to do so again for your company.
Intellectual Curiosity
No two companies do things the same way—innovation is born from new perspectives and ideas. That's why recruiting executives curious about the world around them is critical—how other organizations operate, what technology is available, and how they can creatively apply it.
In today's ever-changing business landscape, you want to find executives who aren't just keeping up with industry trends but are also developing solutions to future-proof your business.
Strong Communications Skills
Good communication is a two-way street. It involves both speaking and listening. An effective executive should be able to clearly communicate their ideas and objectives, as well as listen carefully to the feedback of others to make informed decisions. Leaders that understand the power of thoughtful listening will inspire teams, instill purpose, and confidently drive results.
Positive Leadership
A successful executive must be a leader that can foster an atmosphere that encourages collaboration, trust, and respect. Since board members and senior-level leaders are responsible for inspiring their employees to reach new heights and creating an environment of trust, you want executive candidates who showcase positivity.
Honesty & Integrity
Integrity is the foundation of any successful organization. The best executives can take ownership of their mistakes and learn from them. They also hold themselves accountable for their actions. Honest and transparent leaders are more likely to earn the respect and trust of their team.
Creativity
Headhunter and executive search teams should be looking for candidates who think outside the box, can adapt to change, and enthusiastically embrace new challenges. Market trends change quickly, and technology advances at a rapid rate. You never know what business disruption lurks around the corner, so you need executives who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
Confidence
Executive roles require tough decision-making and risk-taking. You need a headhunter or executive search recruiter that can identify leaders who present themselves confidently and have the backbone to make difficult and even unpopular decisions. During times of crisis or uncertainty (e.g., dealing with pandemics), confidence steadies a rocking boat and guides one into a safe harbor.
Strategic Thinker
Companies want their leaders that do more than sit back and make decisions—they want executives to have big ideas and think strategically. Strategic thinking involves anticipating future trends, setting long-term goals, and developing strategies to achieve them. A headhunter or executive search team should be looking for candidates who aren't afraid to try new approaches and take chances but also learn from their mistakes.
Headhunter Executive Search: How To Get Started
The first step in any executive search is determining what traits and qualifications are essential to the open role. Senior leadership teams should discuss the core skills and attributes their organization needs in a new executive. Once you know what talent your team needs, it's time to bring in an experienced executive search firm to match qualified candidates with your organization.
At Hire Velocity, we're proud to consistently rank among the top RPO companies and executive search firms in the United States. Our executive search team specializes in connecting the right executives with the right organizations. We use customized executive search solutions to help you attract, develop, and retain the best executives for your organization.
Contact us today to learn more about our executive search services and how we can help you find the perfect executive for your team.
