The Association of Executive Search Consultants, Inc.

The Association of Executive Search Consultants, Inc., founded in 1959, is the preeminent trade association representing executive consulting firms worldwide. Executive search consulting is a specialized branch of management consulting that helps assist corporations, non-profit organizations, and governments to identify, evaluate and select executives. AESC members serve as advisors to management on human resource and executive selection issues. The association sets ethical and professional standards. Executive search consultants work ony for the client company and never for individuals seeking employment.

Our Approach to Conducting Searches

While the exact method of conducting a search varies from firm to firm, the typical process includes:

Getting to know the client and how the organization is structured, creating a position description and the clarifying the specifications of the individual to fill the position.

Research, usually conducted by a research department, the search consultant or both, to identify potential candidates and compile as much information about them as possible.

Contacting potential candidates, screening them by telephone and interviewing the best, to narrow the field to the most qualified executives.

Checking background, reputation and references to confirm accuracy and deepen understanding of the candidate.

Presenting the final candidates in person and on paper allows the client to make his own evaluation.

Negotiation with the selected candidate often involves the search consultant as an impartial party.

Follow-up with the client and placed candidate to help make the transition go as smoothly as possible.