We’re a global retained search agency

Retained search involves paying an upfront fee for recruitment to allow a rigorous and robust talent search to take place. 

Typically, recruitment works on a contingent basis meaning there is no commitment on either side. However, this can present risks for both parties. 

Instead, retained basis recruitment allows your recruitment consultant to conduct a customised and in-depth search until the ideal candidate is sourced.

There are benefits for both parties when opting for a retained search. Crucially, the benefits for your recruiter in terms of being paid upfront for their services actually benefits clients too. 

For instance, if a standard contingency recruitment approach is followed, then the recruiter would only be paid if they secured a hire. However, that level of risk can mean it is not financially viable for the recruiter to dedicate the true amount of time and resources needed to best serve the needs of the client. 

So by changing the working relationship, quality is infused into every aspect of the talent search. In terms of finding the best candidate being the priority, retained search gives your recruiter all of the resources they need to do so.

Ultimately, our aim as a retained search firm is to avoid practices that from our experience, do not achieve quality results. Since retained search allows us to conduct a more in-depth focus, successful hires are far more likely.

When comparing retained vs contingent search for recruitment, the main differences to know about include the payment agreement, engagement model, search process, candidate sourcing quality, search confidentially and the level of risk involved.

To summarise, a contingent search involves paying the recruiter only after the candidate is sourced. Though, this can mean a rush to fill the position to complete the process based on the financial and practical constraints this can create. Also, the process is not confidential meaning the position may be filled by other recruitment agencies or even internally.

Retained search involves working exclusively with one company so that every aspect of the recruitment process can be refined. It involves paying an upfront fee so that a comprehensive and confidential talent search can begin, whereby targeting the most suitable candidates is the main focus. Overall, a retained recruitment search is designed to promote long term satisfaction and success.

Unsure which approach would be best for your business in search of senior HR talent? As one of the leading executive placement firms, the Elliot Scott team is here to help. Please contact us to find out more.

Naturally, every company wants to find talent fast. But a need for speed can actually result in poor and ultimately costly hiring decisions as a result.

According to research, the industry average for a retained search is between 90-180 days. However, if you partner with us for retained recruitment, we will be able to give you a timeframe based on the specifics of your search.

It’s important to remember that a retained search is actually designed to take longer due to the extreme diligence applied when sourcing candidates. So instead of aiming to fill the role as fast as possible, retained search prioritises finding the very best fit.

At Elliot Scott, we’ll draw upon our extensive list of contacts and networks to source relevant candidates. Doing so can help avoid unnecessary delays in the recruitment process without compromising on quality.

Interim roles cover a broad range of senior level positions. 

At Elliott Scott, we specialise in executive HR roles such as Chief HR Officer (CHRO) or Global HR Director.

If you have a need for an interim search for any senior human resources role, please get in touch. From there we can offer tailored advice based on the requirements of your business.

In short, we take our time! By not rushing the recruitment process, and by also drawing on our extensive experience and networks, we are able to produce the highest calibre of candidates for your senior HR candidate search. 

For businesses that haven’t worked with a retained search company before, there are key differences at every stage of the process. 

We’ll oversee the key stages of the process including the candidate search, screening, shortlisting, interviews, selections and onboarding. 

Of course, any recruitment drive can offer a level of unpredictability. Therefore, in the event that things don’t go as planned, we also include a replacement guarantee for a defined period within your retained search agreement. 

If there is anything else you would like to discuss in relation to ensuring the quality of a retained search, please contact us to find out more.