Often, the terms headhunting and recruitment are used interchangeably for two different roles. These professionals use different hiring strategies but produce the same results. Headhunters and recruiters work to help candidates get matched with open positions. Let us explore the similarities and differences between recruitment and headhunting.

Headhunting

Definition Of Headhunting

Headhunting targets candidates who are not actively seeking a new role but best match the company’s requirements. It is usually more expensive than standard recruitment because of the additional steps and resources needed to identify the best candidates. Headhunting is often more helpful when looking for candidates for a hard-to-fill position. 

What Is Headhunting And Who Is A Headhunter?

Headhunting also means executive search. Companies usually hire headhunters to find candidates for top positions, from c-level to middle management. It’s a process of sourcing candidates by targeting high-level employees. They typically vet a potential candidate pool and check if they have the skills and qualifications matching the job description. 

What Does A Headhunter Do?

Headhunters are mostly third-party consultants and work based on a retainer fee structure. This ensures a dedicated and ongoing search for the best candidates. Here are the four most common responsibilities of a headhunter:

• Create the brief. The headhunting process usually starts with a detailed brief from the client that explains what kind of candidate they’re looking for. The headhunter will then review the skills and experience a candidate should have to be considered for the position. 
• Identify the candidates. The next step is to develop a targeted list of potential candidates based on the client’s brief. Kilpatrick Executive distinguishes itself by headhunting cross-border, effectively identifying and engaging top talent from various regions and industries globally. This approach helps companies find the best candidates irrespective of geographical boundaries. By leveraging our network and extensive research capabilities, we create a shortlist of candidates who perfectly fit the job description. Most of these candidates are ‘passive’ and are found through active searching, engagement, and references from our extensive global network.
• Set up interviews. The headhunter will work with the hiring manager to set up interview schedules. Sometimes, the headhunter will perform the initial screening or introduce the candidate to the hiring manager for the next step.
• Make the offer. After a series of interviews and choosing the most suitable candidate, it is time to make a job offer. This is done either by the headhunter or the company. 

Benefits of Headhunting

You may be missing out if your usual recruitment method does not involve headhunting. Hiring candidates with the help of a headhunter has impressive advantages compared to the traditional recruitment approaches. Headhunters are also trained to engage with every candidate in a personalized way. 

With an understanding that the usual spray-and-pray approach does not work when hiring for executive positions, headhunters tailor their messaging accordingly and take their time to understand each candidate better. 

When To Use Headhunting

At Kilpatrick Executive, we specialize in sourcing candidates for C-level positions and middle management roles, particularly those that are challenging to fill. Our expertise in this area ensures that we find the most qualified and capable individuals for these critical positions.

Recruitment

Definition of Recruitment

Recruitment involves identifying and hiring suitable candidates for a specific position. It is the definition of the entire hiring process – from the inception of the job description to the onboarding of hired candidates. 

What Is Recruitment And Who Is A Recruiter?

A recruiter finds candidates to fill any open position within an organization. Unlike headhunting, a recruiter focuses solely on the active job seeker pool. It is common to recruit candidates at job fairs or through recruitment websites. Recruitment also includes screening applicants and ensuring they meet the job’s requirements. 

What Does A Recruiter Do?

Depending on the company, a recruiter has various tasks and responsibilities. Some of them include: 

• Posting job openings and writing complete details about the position.
• Finding and contacting candidates as well as doing the pre-screening.
• Present the chosen candidate to the employer or hiring manager for interviews.
• Negotiating salaries and discussing responsibilities. 

Benefits Of Recruitment

An organization’s growth depends on the strengths of the workforce. Thus, it is vital to have a sound recruitment strategy in place. Here are some of the advantages of having a great recruitment process:

• Hire high-quality candidates. Recruiters take time to organize hiring processes and develop tests to check if the candidates are suitable for the job and the company. The screening process ensures that only qualified applicants get the appointment letter. 
• Faster hiring. Recruitment agencies provide solutions that ensure that the hiring process remains timely for applicants and that only qualified individuals are sent to the company for the job offer.
• Hire applicants with specialist knowledge. Recruiters screen applicants to ensure individuals with specific skills and knowledge suitable for the position get hired. For example, a candidate for a managerial position should have a management degree and relevant experience. 

When To Use Recruitment

A company can use recruitment when there is a need to fill a position to avoid disruption of operation. Recruitment is usually done when a job opening can be filled through an internal process. When a manager or team leader requests additional manpower or changes leadership, it is time to use recruitment. 

Headhunting And Recruitment In Comparison

Both headhunting and recruitment involve searching for qualified candidates and securing applicants who are suitable for the job. They both include researching potential candidates extensively, screening resumes, and contacting candidates to facilitate interviews. 

Headhunting and recruitment differ in the type of position they fill, their methods and hiring process, and their compensation. Headhunters are mainly focused on filling executive-level and middle management positions and are proactive in approaching candidates even when they are not actively looking for a new job. On the other hand, recruiters are focused on approaching candidates actively seeking new employment. 

How Kilpatrick Can Help Companies In Choosing The Best Strategy Between Headhunting And Recruiting

Need help filling up positions within your organization? Kilpatrick Executive can help. We offer executive search services tailored to help clients find the best talent on the market. Talk to one of our consultants and let the right team help you with your needs!