The goal of a successful search is to recruit the most qualified and diverse applicant pool available in order to select the best candidate to become a member of the UAB community. This guide has been created as a resource to assist departments when it is determined that the services of a search firm will be needed.
How does a department determine if a search firm is required? A search firm may be beneficial when...
A search firm provides a wide range of recruiting activities including identifying the core responsibilities and qualifications needed for a given role, writing job descriptions, developing a candidate pool, assessing how a candidate's skills, experience and personality match the open position, conducting reference checks and advising on the negotiation process between the organization and the final candidate.
Often, the first step in the process of selecting a search firm is to talk with colleagues and associates to identify the firms or individual consultants they have worked with in the past. While compiling the list, assess their experiences and ask questions about specific consultants as well as the firm. Typical questions for references may include:
The methodology used to access good candidate talent pools is a point of differentiation between firms. For example, if the position requires someone with specific business skills, the organization will want to understand how the search firm would build the candidate pool, if it has done this type of search before, and how successful it has been. In their assessment, the search committee will want to ask...
Search firm services typically require an organization to pay a fee that is one-third of the position's salary plus expenses related to the search. However, fees will vary and can often be negotiated depending on the firm's guidelines and type of service provided.
If hiring manager prefers, UAB Human Resources can provide a short list of potential search firms.
The checklists and guidelines below are meant as a resource for those hiring a senior staff member and considering the assistance of a search firm. For information on using a search firm to hire a faculty member, please contact the Office of the Provost.