Confidentiality!

The vast majority of candidates that we contact for the retained/executive searches are happily, busily and gainfully employed.  When we reach out to them, we do not know if they are open to a move.  We don’t even know if they are open to our call.  We, of course, reach out regardless – by phone and/or by e-mail (or InMail as a last resort). 

I’m Looking Outside

Imagine letting your manager know you are engaged as a candidate for a search process.  What are the implications?

• Your manager no longer trusts you.
• That next promotion or key project you were about to get – it goes to someone else. 
• Anytime you dress up/leave for a meeting – your actions are suspect.

Academic Searches

The University of Minnesota is currently looking for a new President.  They have engaged a search firm (actually – they terminated the engagement with the first firm they hired based on an issue relating to a conflicting/competing search being conducted by that firm; they hired a second firm).  From the daily news reports, there are three finalists.  The Board of Regents is only considering one of the finalists, however.  Why? 

• Two of the candidates do not want their name to be out in the public unless they are the final candidate. 

NOTE – this is not unusual in senior-level academic searches for public institutions.  Regardless, would you want your name out there only to be told you did not get the job?

We Promise Confidentiality

We promise our candidates that we will do everything possible to keep their names private.  We work closely with our clients to assure names are kept private and that no one from the client does any ‘off the record’ reference checking. 

The Job Market Is Wildly Competitive

In today’s market, candidates have choices.  Employees can stay where they are – and employers are getting better at keeping people engaged.  They can answer our call – or the next call (and they will get calls) and be very selective. 

We promise you as candidates – and as clients – we will keep your activities confidential.  Let’s make sure we discuss this when we connect – it is often left undiscussed (like most search issues relating to ethics), but need to be addressed.