No change in the ëWar for Talentí Despite Economic Conditions

The recent annual survey of our Consultants across the globe found that the large majority (96%) of executives hired in 2008 were currently employed when contacted by one of our Consultants, demonstrating that even with the current tight economic conditions the ëWar for Talentí is still very much alive.

According to the report, 38% of all candidates contacted had no intention of moving from their current employer whilst 48% felt a change within a year was probable, although they were not actively looking.

Figures like these continue to express the challenge faced by companies today, and the importance of their relationship with a search company. Our Consultants faced many challenges during 2008; however, the one challenge that stood out from the rest, with 42% highlighting it, was that of finding qualified candidates and then persuading them to move.

With economic conditions being somewhat unstable at present it is more important than ever to sell the clientís unique offering and the role to candidates, especially when the survey findings predict that executive search consultants will not only see their own business affected during 2009 but will also have to work under the twin pressures of clients taking more time to make hiring decisions and candidates avoiding risks in moving on.

The survey also revealed that a wide variety of search tools are used in a simultaneous way. The most effective are networking and referrals, with only 17% of offices globally posting advertisements.

A wide variety of attributes were mentioned when they were asked about what characteristics they would be looking for in candidates in 2009. The most desirable were flexibility to adapt to a tougher economic climate, the ability to perform well under pressure and the skill to lead teams in times of crisis. Other top concerns were a solid track record, commitment, stability and reliability. Also mentioned were realism on salaries and benefits, a true desire to change, together with maturity and commercial awareness.

Asked about what advice they would give clients in order to benefit more from InterSearch services, most Consultantís emphasized communications and trust. First, clear communication about the demands and expectations of the process and more time spent on the initial briefing. Secondly, building a relationship based on trust.

You can download the full InterSearch report for 2008 on our website.
If you would like to discuss any aspects of UK or International Search please feel free to call me on 0121 456 7640, or email me at ph@intersearchuk.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

Paul Holmes, Managing Director, InterSearch in the UK