We recently finished a search for a tax director in a medium sized firm in the biotech space that required a substantial adjustment of the job during the process. Some of the candidates were surprised (and disappointed) at this turn of events, and I thought I would shed some insight on the twists and turns of the search process.
1. Clarifying need. In an earlier post I described thoroughness with candidates as one of the hallmarks of a good recruiter. The same applies when working with clients. Good recruiters will discuss the position in some detail with the client, and at times this will change the job description enough to eliminate some potential candidates. A good recruiter will be honest with candidates about these changes; do not take this personally as the switch was not a reflection of your skills or experiences.
2. Use the information. When you learn of the switch file the information away in your mental rolodex of information regarding the industry; you are now aware of a trend, or need, that could open doors for you later in other areas. If you really want to score points recommend a potential candidate to the recruiter; the good ones will remember this and repay the favor.
Comments