With just four years’ experience in this great business, I’ve made my share of mistakes. Some I continue to make, even though I know better. I’ve learned, over and over, that it is not wise to get involved in low-quality search assignments. We all know what they look like, and I’m getting a little better at sniffing them out. My short list of signs or symptoms of a low-quality search are:

image source: Claus Rebler

• Contingency search with multiple recruiters involved
• Search that has been going on for a long time
• A client who is in financial trouble (i.e. may not be able to pay your fee)
• A client who refuses to sign your search agreement
• Splits with other recruiters, where you are not the exclusive search agent
• Searches where you have no access to the hiring manager
• Searches where you are competing against an aggressive internal recruiting department

The list can go on and on. I’ve done work with each of the above, and it was painful!

Ongoing marketing, with a clear value proposition, is the only way to improve the odds of winning great search assignments. I’m a believer in open communication, and think it is a good idea to share your business goals and aspirations with many people, including your friends. However, this can be a double-edged sword.