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The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision
At a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
2
Table of Contents
Chapter Page Number
Area of Study 3
Aims and Objectives 3
Research Method 3
Discussion of Relevant Recruitment Theory 4
Summary of Research Undertaken 6
Analysis of Research Results 7
Discussion of How Theory Operates in
Practice
8
Problems with Putting Theory into Practice 10
Summary of Findings 11
Conclusions 12
Recommendations 13
Learning Outcomes 14
Bibliography 15
Appendix A An Example of a Proposal 16
Appendix B Project Briefing Form 27
Appendix C Role Description 30
Appendix D Validation Sheet 33
Appendix E Interview Report 34
Appendix F Execution Plan 39
Appendix G Research Manual 41
Appendix H Job Description 43
Appendix I Acid Test 46
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
3
Area of Study
The project is dedicated the stage of the recruitment process that follows attracting a
number of candidates. The pre-selection stage is for gathering and interpreting of information
about candidates who have responded to your chosen method of advertising.1
The REC DipRP
syllabus states that the process of pre-selection allows us to filter out those who are probably
not suitable enough to interview, and to short-list those applicants, whom we would like to look
at more closely. The Pre-Selection stage ends, therefore, when we are satisfied that we have an
adequate short-list for interview.2
Aims and Objectives
This project will look into two important areas of candidate pre-selection process. The
first area is agreeing with the Client on mutually acceptable universal selection criteria:
what are the minimum selection criteria and what kind of candidates could be secured. The
search firm has to be sure that the search criteria are adequate. We shall observe the role of
executive search consultants in playing a pivotal role in defining the selection criteria of
candidates in alliance with the Client‟s recruitment team.
The second area is the selection process methodology: the search firm has to make
sure that it has an adequate pre-selection tool in place. The project will look into how
effective the process of pre-selection is at both Maxwell Drummond energy consultants and the
oil and gas practice at Futurestep search and selection consultancy. It will highlight the role of
the consultancy as an intermediary in processing the best candidates, tailored to clients‟ needs,
which are directly influenced by market forces that drive the quality of candidates against the
time frames, clients‟ financial standing and expectations and their cultural understanding of
local markets. The project will also look into how to make a headhunting job of a researcher
more straight forward and efficient through building a candidate assessment and validation
system called “Acid Test”.
Research Method
We will analyse documents received from actual candidates and business proposals
from senior consultants. We will observe the consultancy‟s capabilities in managing clients‟
expectations through educating, directing and assisting the clients in achieving the best
standards of quality of candidates in the market-driven environment. We will interview and
shadow the leading consultants at Maxwell Drummond to learn their modus operandi of
identifying and pre-selecting candidates and also look into specific documentation used at
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
4
Maxwell Drummond to filter candidates, i.e. an “Acid Test”. We will review the effectiveness
of currently used pre-selection methods at Maxwell Drummond and Futurestep: analyse the
clarity of personal specifications, created in the meetings with clients, how clear the clients are
about what they want and need and how effective personal specifications influence the sifting
process through the “Acid Test”. It will also look into how efficient references and interview
reports are in helping clients to make a final decision.
Discussion of Relevant Recruitment Theory
Once a company has briefed a recruitment consultant they need not be involved in the
recruitment process, save to conduct selection interviews and to implement the decision. In
addition, agencies will often have the right person for the job already on database, so that the
lead time to appointment is dramatically reduced.3
Pre-selection is the activity you undertake after advertising, and the process can be
defined as follows: Pre-selection is the process of analyzing information from all applicants
who have responded to an advertised vacancy, in order to short-list those applicants who will
be invited for interview.4
The REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7 syllabus is stating that there are six main methods by
which applicants will respond to an advertisement: Curriculum Vitae (CV), application form,
letter of application, registration at an agency, personally (telephone or walk-in) and internal
application.5
Generally, the employment agency will use the information gathered at the registration
interview to either produce a CV or augment the applicant‟s own CV, prior to presenting them
to an employer.6
A CV is a history of an individual‟s education, career and work history, personal
circumstances, interests and other background information. The CV is arguably the most
common and accepted form of applicant response used today and can either be a general
document or tailor made to match a specific vacancy. Whereas a CV may be factually accurate,
the astute candidate or intermediary will seek to emphasise or highlight those skills,
experiences or attributes that closely match key requirements of the job description and person
specification.7
Advantages of CV: opportunity for candidates to provide full information about
skills and experience; time saving – candidates can respond quickly without
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
5
waiting for application form to arrive; increased response –once a candidate has
a CV she/he can respond without considerable effort; etc.8
Disadvantages of a CV: can be lengthy and give candidates the chance to
exaggerate suitability; variety of style and layout makes it more difficult to
objectively compare candidates; can deter candidates who do not have a CV or
the facilities or experience to produce one; etc.9
A pre-selection interview is a very important part of a pre-selection process at a search
and selection consultancy. Pre-selection – often conducted by an employment agency or
business to screen candidates and establish their suitability for particular types of work.10
It is
important for interviewers to understand the skills and competences they will need to conduct
an effective interview. The structure of an interview describes its shape. Unlike an unstructured
dialogue, it has objectives i.e. a sense of direction. An interview needs to have clear objectives,
even if they are not always written down. These are normally: 1) to get information, facts and
evidence from, and add to that already supplied by, a candidate; 2) to provide information to
the candidate; 3) to use the information gained in deciding on a candidate‟s suitability for a
particular job or types of jobs.11
A research undertaken into the selection interview is concerned with the overall
outcome of the interview in terms of its reliability and validity and also with non-verbal
behavior of the interviewer and interviewee, and the influence of personal perception on
decision making in the interview.12
Reliability refers to the consistency of judgments made by an interviewer of she/he
were to interview the candidate afresh on a second occasion or if someone else were to
interview the same candidate. Good job analysis, providing selection criteria, and interviewer
training tend to increase reliability.13
Interviews appear to offer low but positive validity in relation to work success. More
recent studies suggest that different types of interview may have different validities. Structured
interviews, with job-relevant criteria derived from detailed job analysis, are better at predicting
future job performance.14
Before the interview takes place, there are several factors which will affect the way it
will proceed: lack of clear job information; inappropriate person specification stereotypes;
insufficient preparation; limited interview skills training; ignorance of the law; lack of diversity
awareness; etc.15
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
6
In order to conduct an interview effectively it is imperative to establish what the job
involves and the specific skills and attributes needed to perform successfully in the role.16
The factors highlighted as potential problems before the interview serve also as
problems during the interview itself: first impressions; visual cues; hearing what they want to
hear; overweighting negative information; overweighting academic qualifications; attitudal,
gender and racial similarity; cross-cultural issues; questioning style; etc.17
Following the interview, additional factors can affect how the information gathered is
evaluated and selection decisions made: contrast effects; pressure to select; intuitive decision
making; structured interview guides and note taking; etc.18
The information collected from a candidate must conform to the Regulations issued
under the Employment Agencies Act 2003 Regulations.19
It is particularly relevant for an agency, supplying candidates for the oil and gas
industry, that it must take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure that both work seeker and
hirer are aware of any requirements imposed by law or a professional body for the work seeker
to take up that position and make all reasonably practicable enquiries to ensure that it would
not be detrimental to either the interests of the work seeker or the hirer.20
The process of attracting candidates can be seen as one of recruitment. In other words,
we are trying to create a pool of near-suitable and suitable candidates.21
The process of pre-selection, as we have seen, allows us to filter out those who are
probably not suitable enough to interview, and to short-list those applicants, whom we would
like to look at more closely. The Pre-Selection stage ends, therefore, when we are satisfied that
we have an adequate shortlist to present for an interview with a Client.22
Summary of Research Undertaken
We have observed that executive search consultants at Futurestep and Maxwell
Drummond rely largely on identifying and „headhunting‟ the right candidates through the
research of the target market for the senior appointments. Recruitment and pre-selection
process is clearly a team work at an executive search consultancy.23
The team normally consists
of a business development consultant, delivery consultant and a consultant associate, i.e. a
researcher. A Job Description and a Person Specification are defined and decided on during a
negotiation process with a client, upon which a retainer contract is signed. Managing
consultant, in ordinary circumstances, being a person who has secured a client, takes up a role
of an advisor to a client. A senior consultant‟s responsibility is to educate a client about current
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
7
market conditions, supply/demand situation in a certain region for a certain role and salary
levels. [Appendix A] This all is a part of managing client‟s expectations and is a part of
services provided within a package by a Search and Selection firm. [Appendix B] A delivery
consultant is managing day-to-day activities as an account manager, who updates a client on a
progress of work done and prepares chosen candidates for an interview with a client. A
delivery consultant is also responsible for a Position Profile, based on the information received
from a client and a managing consultant. [Appendix C] At Futurestep, a delivery consultant
and/or a researcher approaches identified candidates to secure their interest in a role and also
asks for their CVs. Sometimes, an initial approach is the case of sending a Validation Sheet to a
candidate, identified as suitable. [Appendix D] Once a candidate‟s interest is secured, a
delivery consultant and/or a researcher calls back to a candidate for an in-depth conversation
about a candidate‟s work experience, education, skills set, family circumstances and etc., upon
which a Candidate Profile is written. [Appendix E] Careful planning prior to interview will
ensure that any gaps or apparent weaknesses against the specification are highlighted for
probing at interview, when all facts will be checked through questioning.24
The REC DipRP syllabus states that we should not reject candidates without care –
some may offer skills and experience packaged in ways that we did not expect when we drafted
our person specification and advertisement.25
A Candidate Profile of a pre-selected candidate
for a role is forwarded to a client at the end of a pre-selection process at Futurestep.
Analysis of Research Results
During an exercise for a top five exploration and production companies in the year 2006
at Maxwell Drummond, that was for reservoir engineers that were required to have a full
complement of “classical” reservoir engineering skills, i.e. simulation and model building,
decline curve analysis and material balance. However, there was a marked variance in the
suitability of candidates, sourced by researchers: some candidates had one of the skill sets, i.e.
simulation, but not the rest. What became apparent on consultation with the research team, was
that a number of them did not have the sufficient technical understanding of subsurface matters
to properly qualify and screen the candidates. By utilising the acid test, which was linked to the
three key aspects of “classical” reservoir engineering, researchers were more able to effectively
screen candidates, despite their limited technical understanding. Essentially, previously anyone
with job title of “reservoir engineer” was being put forward to the consultant, but after adoption
of the acid test, only candidates, who could demonstrate experience in all the required areas,
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
8
were pre-selected by researchers for the consultant‟s review. Adopting the acid test led to a
marked increase of relevant candidates being provided to the consultant by the researchers.
[Appendix F]
At the beginning of each assignment a researcher would discuss with a consultant a
Clients‟ corporate culture, their target marketplace and the outline of a job profile to determine
the number of hours required to successfully generate candidates for an employment
opportunity. Once the estimate is proposed and agreed upon, a researcher will assist a
consultant in developing a target company listing and a formal job profile that will be used to
evaluate all prospective executives.26
Recruitment Research involves direct sourcing of target companies by a researcher to
find candidates - the best people, currently performing the job a Client needs done. Researchers
locate candidates through cold calling and networking with people in the industry and relevant
professional associations.26
The end result is a thoroughly researched and filtered list of prospective candidates
tailored to a Client‟s specific position, and submitted to a Client in a detailed research report.
The research report provides a list of candidates who have the experience, education, salary and
geographical preference specified in the job profile. [Appendix G]
Discussion of How Theory Operates in Practice
When a researcher starts a new exercise, there a number of key criteria to be
established, appertaining to the specific exercise, before commencing work on the search. This
can be named the process of Defining the Search Universe. Defining the Search universe
entails fully understanding what your client is looking for on this exercise, where it is likely to
be found and then assembling the list of companies applicable for strategic targeting.
In conceptualizing this search universe a list should be made of companies that are
priority for targeting followed by secondary and tertiary targets. The criteria for mapping this
out is dependant on a number of factors such as a) where are the appropriate candidates( in
terms of comparable experience and skill set ) most likely to be found b) companies that fit
within the same geographic sector negating the need for relocation (if possible ) c) companies
where the pay structure is not superior to the pay structure of the MDI (Maxwell Drummond)
client represented. Companies that represent the aforementioned would be deemed priority or
Tier 1 in the search universe companies that do not all have the above criteria but still have
appropriate candidates would still be included in search process but would be secondary or tier
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
9
2 targets. Tier 3 companies would again have even less of the appropriate criteria (obviously
the researcher should make sure with MDI management which companies are off limits before
compiling any search list).27
An example case study of this process in action is the following:
Client A is a top 5 Oil and Gas Operator and is looking for a Senior Reservoir engineer
for a subsurface team in Aberdeen. The incumbent is to have 10-15 years experience in
reservoir engineering ideally within a major Exploration and Production company with at least
5 years in integrated subsurface teams. The client is middle table in terms of remuneration.
In mapping out a search universe the priority companies, Tier 1 companies, would be
other major oil and gas operators due to the comparable in depth skills, similar pay structures
and same geographic location. These companies would fulfill all the key criteria for the search
and should be of primary focus for the search. Tier 2 companies would be large Independents
in Aberdeen region who would have appropriate candidates but where the pay structure (in
terms of base remuneration) may be superior to the MDI client. Tier 3 companies would be
consultancies or other forms of service provider based in Aberdeen where the skill sets of
candidates are less of a fit to the role spec.27
Typically, a search follows this sequence at Futurestep:
1. During our initial interviews with client executives who have a direct interest in, or
relationship with, the position to be filled, we develop or refine a position profile that describes
the basic responsibilities of the position, its title, compensation, reporting relationships and the
education and experience required for satisfactory performance. In addition, we obtain
information on the client organisation, its history, objectives, current evolution, personalities
involved etc. The position profile and information relative to the client‟s present and future
operations serve as a guide in determine whom we will contact during the course of the search.
2. Once we have developed the specifications for the job, we then search the field to
locate persons with qualifications that match closely. Because individuals with the desired
qualities are usually not actively looking for a job, they must be sought out and brought to the
client‟s attention. It is our practice to search comparable companies or institutions in the
industry and to use a direct approach in locating individuals who both meet the position
requirements, and who have accomplishments and success in a position that closely
approximates the position to be filled. This process is designed to yield several qualified
candidates who can be compared and evaluated competitively against each other - and against
the best possible candidates from within the company, if any.
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
10
3. Candidates are thoroughly interviewed to obtain a realistic understanding of their
accomplishments, capabilities and potential. The candidates are also evaluated to determine
their strengths and limitations. In conducting reference checks, it is our practice to talk directly
with individuals who are or have been in a position to evaluate the candidate‟s performance on
the job. These references and evaluations are combined in our own frank, objective appraisals
of the candidates.
4. We mutually agree that any prospect developed through the Client means be brought
to our attention to avoid duplication of effort and enable us to conduct independent evaluation
of these prospects.
5. Once we have evaluated the potential candidates, we normally present the three most
qualified individuals to the client for his consideration. Our firm prepares a detailed written
report on our findings relative to these candidates, including reference check information, the
candidates‟ track record and our evaluation. We personally present these reports and co-
ordinate initial interviews. Normally, the client follows up these initial meetings with
additional interviews to select the person who best satisfies the needs of the position. The final
selection of the individual and the offer of employment are always made by the client. We are
prepared to assist, when required, in establishing the terms of employment. [Appendix A]
Problems with Putting Theory into Practice
Prior to 2004 screening and pre interview assessment of candidates at MDI (Maxwell
Drummond) was left to the discretion of individual researchers, however this led to a variance
in quality of candidates provided to consultants dependant of the diligence of and technical
understanding of the researchers undertaking the assignment.
To rectify this and ensure throughout the Maxwell Drummond a more robust and
standardized product to consultants and more effective utilization of time by researchers, the
decision was made companywide to adopt an “Acid Test” screening document.
This was initially rolled out in North America in 2004 but has been adopted company
wide since 2006.
The Acid Test means that prior to being put forward to interview with a consultant a
candidate must answer a number of key questions relating to their experience, technical skill
set, interest and mobility that make sure that they are in the first instance a good fit for the
position they are being contacted for.
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
11
An example of where this has added value is previously MDI would undertake an
assignment to source a drilling engineer for an operator. This position would recognize the
candidate to have skills and experience in all the key areas of well construction – casing design,
drill string design, torque and drag and well planning. [Appendix H] However, some people,
titled Drilling Engineer in the service sector, would only have skills in one area of well
construction, i.e. directional drilling, without the technical know how a researcher would not be
able to readily differentiate between the two, however, by applying the acid test, which is
linked to key competencies of the role, even a researcher with limited technical knowledge can
screen unsuitable candidates and make sure the consultants time is not wasted on non
productive interviews.
In conclusion, adopting on Acid Test screening document has been successful, in
ensuring a more robust and standardized way for researchers (headhunters) to provide
candidates to consider a higher ratio of effective interviews, undertaken by consultants and
non-technically minded researchers to screen candidates from diverse technical backgrounds.
[Appendix I]
In the case of Futurestep, an additional challenge was that a new Client, OMEL, an
Indian Company, was a new entrant to the EU market. They had their own ideas and
convictions about the salary levels and person specifications for the roles they have instructed
us to recruit for. It took quite a while for our senior client partners to persuade and educate the
Client about the UK recruitment market conditions and legislation, which was counter-
productive to our team schedule. We had to take a few detours and presented the UK
employment market analysis before going into the process of headhunting candidates who we
thought would be right for the particular Client.
It was difficult to assess fully timescales at this junction. However, if engaged by our
Client, OMEL, we would propose to develop a full project plan with detailed timelines. It
should be noted that the usual timeline for an assignment: a shortlist of candidates for each role
is usually ready for a client to interview within 6 weeks of commencing the work. Client
interviews and offer/acceptance is where delays can occur but should be avoided. The UK
most senior candidates will have notice periods of 1-3 months in their contracts of employment.
[Appendix A]
Summary of Findings
We found out about the importance of the following components of a pre-selection
process, which are essential for achievement of optimal results in pre-selection stage: acid test,
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
12
accuracy of pre-screening, education of a client, advisory services and accurate job
descriptions and person specifications.
Our recent experience with a number of clients has shown that unless a company
understands this market fully, has a strong and attractive proposition (in terms of company, role
and package) and moves quickly and professionally then they will not be successful in
attracting the talent they require to drive their business forward. [Appendix A]
We have reviewed the Job Descriptions, Person Specifications and also “Acid Tests”,
built upon them both at Maxwell Drummond and Futurestep. We have consolidated our
perspectives on the market and made a number of comments below:
We understood that the main focus for the technical recruitment for our Client‟s
business is to identify and attract experienced talent; managers with a sound project supervisory
experience. This talent is indeed in short supply and very much has a price premium attached
to it. Thus, the general observation that we would require is to have a strong proposition and
be able to move very quickly to attract such people has to be understood.
As many of these roles are in an initial „start-up‟ business then it is likely that
these people will be in a very exposed (stand alone) position with little or no technical support.
If that is the case then it is more likely that we would need to fill these positions with highly
experienced personnel who have had previous „start-up‟ experience. These people will be, by
default, expensive. Having looked at our current data, salaries of ÂŁ200-ÂŁ500k would not be
unusual.
Our view (irrespective of the level seniority/importance for these positions) is
that it will be very difficult to produce a shortlist of 2/3 candidates for each of these positions
and that it can be helpful to take potential candidates on a “drip-feed” basis.
A difficulty will be extracting candidates who would be potentially losing
favorable pensions and cash incentives for a new start up. [Appendix A]
Conclusions
There are two types of conclusions we have arrived at:
The first conclusion is that we should use a carefully collated “Acid Test”, based on job
description and person specification, to filter candidates through. This “Acid Test” will help
headhunters with non-technical background to make a correct decision about suitability a
candidate.
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
13
The second conclusion is that the role of executive search consultants is to play a
pivotal role in defining the selection criteria of candidates in alliance with the Client‟s
recruitment team.
We came to the conclusion that the following modus operandi is the best for working
with new international entrant-Clients within the oil and gas sector:
We will produce a job and person specification for use in attracting candidates.
This will be sent to a Client for any required amendments.
We have carried out a number of assignments in the oil and gas industry and would
expect to consolidate our knowledge and contacts to produce an agreed target list of people and
companies, i.e. a search universe. We would also seek the views of key individuals in the
relevant markets on who the best candidates are. We would discuss this long list of potential
candidates with a client.
We will then approach these potential candidates, court interest and assess their
suitability through interview, search assessment and cross-referencing.
We will submit a shortlist of suitable people with consultant‟s comments. We
prefer to meet with a client face-to-face to do this.
We will arrange interviews for the candidates with a client.
We will then work closely with a client to handle the offer to the chosen candidates.
When we have identified a final list of candidates we will take out formal reference
checks.
Recommendations
In the present market conditions, there is a need in defining mutually agreed and
universally accepted search criteria with a Client. This would involve an agreement about
contemporary trends in salary levels and qualification requirements to candidates, depending in
which region of the world and at what level of seniority a recruitment process is taking place.
[Appendix A]
Throughout the search process we would provide the Client with regular update reports
and seek the Client‟s feedback on the work in hand. At the same time, there is a real need in
structuring a search and selection work done by researchers, headhunting top personnel,
through the “Acid Tests”.
In addition to the executive search offering, consultants should also offer a range of
business intelligence services which are designed to help the Clients consolidate their position
in the market and gain valuable insight into their competitors‟ strengths and weaknesses.28
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
14
The business intelligence services should be designed to provide the Clients with all the
information they need to make key decisions across a range of areas including hiring,
budgeting, business planning, remuneration and general strategy.28
Each of the following suggested points should create a solution, customized to a
Client‟s particular needs:
Competitor Intelligence: this product provides a Client with detailed
information on an agreed list of key competitors. Areas covered would include organizational
structure, product strengths, P&L, hiring history and threat analysis
Client Analysis: by providing far-reaching insights into specific clients,
consultants should help Clients to serve those clients better, thereby maximizing revenue
Succession Planning / Benchmarking: this type of project allows you to
benchmark your current employees against their counterparts in other institutions; this can be a
useful measure against unexpected team departures, allowing you minimize the impact of
losing key personnel
Perception Analysis: A Client knows what they think of their competitors and
clients, but what do competitors think of a Client? The consultant‟s perception analysis reports
should give a true and accurate profile of the way the market assesses a Client‟s product
offering, their business and the people within it
New Market Entry Analysis: this product allows a Client to assess a market
which they may be considering entering. A consultant should be able to identify your potential
competitors‟ strengths and weaknesses, thereby helping you to avoid their mistakes and
improve upon their successes 28
Learning Outcomes
The Futurestep model demonstrates the importance of defining at the outset universally
agreed selection criteria, so that both the search company and the client recruitment team are
selecting and making recruitment decisions on the same criteria. This means that there is a
standardized and efficient product provided by the researches to the consultant.
We have learnt that the recruitment process for the oil and gas industry on the
international stage is sophisticated and includes more stages than regional. This means that a
recruitment consultant, working on the international stage, needs to take into consideration
more factors of uncertainty as an affect of international Clients‟ decision-making on pre-
selected candidates.
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
15
The Maxwell Drummond model demonstrates that it is important to make sure that
there is an adequate pre-selection tool in place and that a researcher receives a sufficient
training in headhunting for technical roles and also prompted to make a correct pre-selection
decision with a help of an “Acid Test”.
Bibliography
1. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 1
2. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 11
3. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 3, page 26
4. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 1
5. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 1-2
6. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 5; REC DipRP Module 2 2006- 7,
Chapter 11, page 9; REC DipRP Module 2 2006-7, Chapter 11, Page 10
7. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 2
8. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 2
9. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 3
10. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 3
11. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 4
12. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 7
13. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 7
14. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 8
15. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 9
16. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, page 13
17. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 9-11
18. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 11-12
19. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 5; REC Dip RP Module 2 2006-7,
Chapter 11, Page 15
20. REC DipRP Module 2 2006-7, Chapter 11. page 16
21. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 10
22. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 11
23. “How to Manage the Search Consultant you are Working With” by Sherri l. Rosenberg,
part “Excerpts from On Target, The Newsletter of the Executive Search Roundtable”
The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm
Natalia Kotelnikova
REC Member Number 00062426
2006/07
16
24. REC DipRP 2006-7 Module 1, Chapter 4, page 10
25. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 11
26. Futurestep Research Manual 2006
27. Maxwell Drummond Search Training Manual
28. http://www.akamaifinancial.com/executive_search.html

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The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision At a Search and Selection Firm

  • 1. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision At a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07
  • 2. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 2 Table of Contents Chapter Page Number Area of Study 3 Aims and Objectives 3 Research Method 3 Discussion of Relevant Recruitment Theory 4 Summary of Research Undertaken 6 Analysis of Research Results 7 Discussion of How Theory Operates in Practice 8 Problems with Putting Theory into Practice 10 Summary of Findings 11 Conclusions 12 Recommendations 13 Learning Outcomes 14 Bibliography 15 Appendix A An Example of a Proposal 16 Appendix B Project Briefing Form 27 Appendix C Role Description 30 Appendix D Validation Sheet 33 Appendix E Interview Report 34 Appendix F Execution Plan 39 Appendix G Research Manual 41 Appendix H Job Description 43 Appendix I Acid Test 46
  • 3. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 3 Area of Study The project is dedicated the stage of the recruitment process that follows attracting a number of candidates. The pre-selection stage is for gathering and interpreting of information about candidates who have responded to your chosen method of advertising.1 The REC DipRP syllabus states that the process of pre-selection allows us to filter out those who are probably not suitable enough to interview, and to short-list those applicants, whom we would like to look at more closely. The Pre-Selection stage ends, therefore, when we are satisfied that we have an adequate short-list for interview.2 Aims and Objectives This project will look into two important areas of candidate pre-selection process. The first area is agreeing with the Client on mutually acceptable universal selection criteria: what are the minimum selection criteria and what kind of candidates could be secured. The search firm has to be sure that the search criteria are adequate. We shall observe the role of executive search consultants in playing a pivotal role in defining the selection criteria of candidates in alliance with the Client‟s recruitment team. The second area is the selection process methodology: the search firm has to make sure that it has an adequate pre-selection tool in place. The project will look into how effective the process of pre-selection is at both Maxwell Drummond energy consultants and the oil and gas practice at Futurestep search and selection consultancy. It will highlight the role of the consultancy as an intermediary in processing the best candidates, tailored to clients‟ needs, which are directly influenced by market forces that drive the quality of candidates against the time frames, clients‟ financial standing and expectations and their cultural understanding of local markets. The project will also look into how to make a headhunting job of a researcher more straight forward and efficient through building a candidate assessment and validation system called “Acid Test”. Research Method We will analyse documents received from actual candidates and business proposals from senior consultants. We will observe the consultancy‟s capabilities in managing clients‟ expectations through educating, directing and assisting the clients in achieving the best standards of quality of candidates in the market-driven environment. We will interview and shadow the leading consultants at Maxwell Drummond to learn their modus operandi of identifying and pre-selecting candidates and also look into specific documentation used at
  • 4. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 4 Maxwell Drummond to filter candidates, i.e. an “Acid Test”. We will review the effectiveness of currently used pre-selection methods at Maxwell Drummond and Futurestep: analyse the clarity of personal specifications, created in the meetings with clients, how clear the clients are about what they want and need and how effective personal specifications influence the sifting process through the “Acid Test”. It will also look into how efficient references and interview reports are in helping clients to make a final decision. Discussion of Relevant Recruitment Theory Once a company has briefed a recruitment consultant they need not be involved in the recruitment process, save to conduct selection interviews and to implement the decision. In addition, agencies will often have the right person for the job already on database, so that the lead time to appointment is dramatically reduced.3 Pre-selection is the activity you undertake after advertising, and the process can be defined as follows: Pre-selection is the process of analyzing information from all applicants who have responded to an advertised vacancy, in order to short-list those applicants who will be invited for interview.4 The REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7 syllabus is stating that there are six main methods by which applicants will respond to an advertisement: Curriculum Vitae (CV), application form, letter of application, registration at an agency, personally (telephone or walk-in) and internal application.5 Generally, the employment agency will use the information gathered at the registration interview to either produce a CV or augment the applicant‟s own CV, prior to presenting them to an employer.6 A CV is a history of an individual‟s education, career and work history, personal circumstances, interests and other background information. The CV is arguably the most common and accepted form of applicant response used today and can either be a general document or tailor made to match a specific vacancy. Whereas a CV may be factually accurate, the astute candidate or intermediary will seek to emphasise or highlight those skills, experiences or attributes that closely match key requirements of the job description and person specification.7 Advantages of CV: opportunity for candidates to provide full information about skills and experience; time saving – candidates can respond quickly without
  • 5. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 5 waiting for application form to arrive; increased response –once a candidate has a CV she/he can respond without considerable effort; etc.8 Disadvantages of a CV: can be lengthy and give candidates the chance to exaggerate suitability; variety of style and layout makes it more difficult to objectively compare candidates; can deter candidates who do not have a CV or the facilities or experience to produce one; etc.9 A pre-selection interview is a very important part of a pre-selection process at a search and selection consultancy. Pre-selection – often conducted by an employment agency or business to screen candidates and establish their suitability for particular types of work.10 It is important for interviewers to understand the skills and competences they will need to conduct an effective interview. The structure of an interview describes its shape. Unlike an unstructured dialogue, it has objectives i.e. a sense of direction. An interview needs to have clear objectives, even if they are not always written down. These are normally: 1) to get information, facts and evidence from, and add to that already supplied by, a candidate; 2) to provide information to the candidate; 3) to use the information gained in deciding on a candidate‟s suitability for a particular job or types of jobs.11 A research undertaken into the selection interview is concerned with the overall outcome of the interview in terms of its reliability and validity and also with non-verbal behavior of the interviewer and interviewee, and the influence of personal perception on decision making in the interview.12 Reliability refers to the consistency of judgments made by an interviewer of she/he were to interview the candidate afresh on a second occasion or if someone else were to interview the same candidate. Good job analysis, providing selection criteria, and interviewer training tend to increase reliability.13 Interviews appear to offer low but positive validity in relation to work success. More recent studies suggest that different types of interview may have different validities. Structured interviews, with job-relevant criteria derived from detailed job analysis, are better at predicting future job performance.14 Before the interview takes place, there are several factors which will affect the way it will proceed: lack of clear job information; inappropriate person specification stereotypes; insufficient preparation; limited interview skills training; ignorance of the law; lack of diversity awareness; etc.15
  • 6. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 6 In order to conduct an interview effectively it is imperative to establish what the job involves and the specific skills and attributes needed to perform successfully in the role.16 The factors highlighted as potential problems before the interview serve also as problems during the interview itself: first impressions; visual cues; hearing what they want to hear; overweighting negative information; overweighting academic qualifications; attitudal, gender and racial similarity; cross-cultural issues; questioning style; etc.17 Following the interview, additional factors can affect how the information gathered is evaluated and selection decisions made: contrast effects; pressure to select; intuitive decision making; structured interview guides and note taking; etc.18 The information collected from a candidate must conform to the Regulations issued under the Employment Agencies Act 2003 Regulations.19 It is particularly relevant for an agency, supplying candidates for the oil and gas industry, that it must take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure that both work seeker and hirer are aware of any requirements imposed by law or a professional body for the work seeker to take up that position and make all reasonably practicable enquiries to ensure that it would not be detrimental to either the interests of the work seeker or the hirer.20 The process of attracting candidates can be seen as one of recruitment. In other words, we are trying to create a pool of near-suitable and suitable candidates.21 The process of pre-selection, as we have seen, allows us to filter out those who are probably not suitable enough to interview, and to short-list those applicants, whom we would like to look at more closely. The Pre-Selection stage ends, therefore, when we are satisfied that we have an adequate shortlist to present for an interview with a Client.22 Summary of Research Undertaken We have observed that executive search consultants at Futurestep and Maxwell Drummond rely largely on identifying and „headhunting‟ the right candidates through the research of the target market for the senior appointments. Recruitment and pre-selection process is clearly a team work at an executive search consultancy.23 The team normally consists of a business development consultant, delivery consultant and a consultant associate, i.e. a researcher. A Job Description and a Person Specification are defined and decided on during a negotiation process with a client, upon which a retainer contract is signed. Managing consultant, in ordinary circumstances, being a person who has secured a client, takes up a role of an advisor to a client. A senior consultant‟s responsibility is to educate a client about current
  • 7. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 7 market conditions, supply/demand situation in a certain region for a certain role and salary levels. [Appendix A] This all is a part of managing client‟s expectations and is a part of services provided within a package by a Search and Selection firm. [Appendix B] A delivery consultant is managing day-to-day activities as an account manager, who updates a client on a progress of work done and prepares chosen candidates for an interview with a client. A delivery consultant is also responsible for a Position Profile, based on the information received from a client and a managing consultant. [Appendix C] At Futurestep, a delivery consultant and/or a researcher approaches identified candidates to secure their interest in a role and also asks for their CVs. Sometimes, an initial approach is the case of sending a Validation Sheet to a candidate, identified as suitable. [Appendix D] Once a candidate‟s interest is secured, a delivery consultant and/or a researcher calls back to a candidate for an in-depth conversation about a candidate‟s work experience, education, skills set, family circumstances and etc., upon which a Candidate Profile is written. [Appendix E] Careful planning prior to interview will ensure that any gaps or apparent weaknesses against the specification are highlighted for probing at interview, when all facts will be checked through questioning.24 The REC DipRP syllabus states that we should not reject candidates without care – some may offer skills and experience packaged in ways that we did not expect when we drafted our person specification and advertisement.25 A Candidate Profile of a pre-selected candidate for a role is forwarded to a client at the end of a pre-selection process at Futurestep. Analysis of Research Results During an exercise for a top five exploration and production companies in the year 2006 at Maxwell Drummond, that was for reservoir engineers that were required to have a full complement of “classical” reservoir engineering skills, i.e. simulation and model building, decline curve analysis and material balance. However, there was a marked variance in the suitability of candidates, sourced by researchers: some candidates had one of the skill sets, i.e. simulation, but not the rest. What became apparent on consultation with the research team, was that a number of them did not have the sufficient technical understanding of subsurface matters to properly qualify and screen the candidates. By utilising the acid test, which was linked to the three key aspects of “classical” reservoir engineering, researchers were more able to effectively screen candidates, despite their limited technical understanding. Essentially, previously anyone with job title of “reservoir engineer” was being put forward to the consultant, but after adoption of the acid test, only candidates, who could demonstrate experience in all the required areas,
  • 8. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 8 were pre-selected by researchers for the consultant‟s review. Adopting the acid test led to a marked increase of relevant candidates being provided to the consultant by the researchers. [Appendix F] At the beginning of each assignment a researcher would discuss with a consultant a Clients‟ corporate culture, their target marketplace and the outline of a job profile to determine the number of hours required to successfully generate candidates for an employment opportunity. Once the estimate is proposed and agreed upon, a researcher will assist a consultant in developing a target company listing and a formal job profile that will be used to evaluate all prospective executives.26 Recruitment Research involves direct sourcing of target companies by a researcher to find candidates - the best people, currently performing the job a Client needs done. Researchers locate candidates through cold calling and networking with people in the industry and relevant professional associations.26 The end result is a thoroughly researched and filtered list of prospective candidates tailored to a Client‟s specific position, and submitted to a Client in a detailed research report. The research report provides a list of candidates who have the experience, education, salary and geographical preference specified in the job profile. [Appendix G] Discussion of How Theory Operates in Practice When a researcher starts a new exercise, there a number of key criteria to be established, appertaining to the specific exercise, before commencing work on the search. This can be named the process of Defining the Search Universe. Defining the Search universe entails fully understanding what your client is looking for on this exercise, where it is likely to be found and then assembling the list of companies applicable for strategic targeting. In conceptualizing this search universe a list should be made of companies that are priority for targeting followed by secondary and tertiary targets. The criteria for mapping this out is dependant on a number of factors such as a) where are the appropriate candidates( in terms of comparable experience and skill set ) most likely to be found b) companies that fit within the same geographic sector negating the need for relocation (if possible ) c) companies where the pay structure is not superior to the pay structure of the MDI (Maxwell Drummond) client represented. Companies that represent the aforementioned would be deemed priority or Tier 1 in the search universe companies that do not all have the above criteria but still have appropriate candidates would still be included in search process but would be secondary or tier
  • 9. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 9 2 targets. Tier 3 companies would again have even less of the appropriate criteria (obviously the researcher should make sure with MDI management which companies are off limits before compiling any search list).27 An example case study of this process in action is the following: Client A is a top 5 Oil and Gas Operator and is looking for a Senior Reservoir engineer for a subsurface team in Aberdeen. The incumbent is to have 10-15 years experience in reservoir engineering ideally within a major Exploration and Production company with at least 5 years in integrated subsurface teams. The client is middle table in terms of remuneration. In mapping out a search universe the priority companies, Tier 1 companies, would be other major oil and gas operators due to the comparable in depth skills, similar pay structures and same geographic location. These companies would fulfill all the key criteria for the search and should be of primary focus for the search. Tier 2 companies would be large Independents in Aberdeen region who would have appropriate candidates but where the pay structure (in terms of base remuneration) may be superior to the MDI client. Tier 3 companies would be consultancies or other forms of service provider based in Aberdeen where the skill sets of candidates are less of a fit to the role spec.27 Typically, a search follows this sequence at Futurestep: 1. During our initial interviews with client executives who have a direct interest in, or relationship with, the position to be filled, we develop or refine a position profile that describes the basic responsibilities of the position, its title, compensation, reporting relationships and the education and experience required for satisfactory performance. In addition, we obtain information on the client organisation, its history, objectives, current evolution, personalities involved etc. The position profile and information relative to the client‟s present and future operations serve as a guide in determine whom we will contact during the course of the search. 2. Once we have developed the specifications for the job, we then search the field to locate persons with qualifications that match closely. Because individuals with the desired qualities are usually not actively looking for a job, they must be sought out and brought to the client‟s attention. It is our practice to search comparable companies or institutions in the industry and to use a direct approach in locating individuals who both meet the position requirements, and who have accomplishments and success in a position that closely approximates the position to be filled. This process is designed to yield several qualified candidates who can be compared and evaluated competitively against each other - and against the best possible candidates from within the company, if any.
  • 10. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 10 3. Candidates are thoroughly interviewed to obtain a realistic understanding of their accomplishments, capabilities and potential. The candidates are also evaluated to determine their strengths and limitations. In conducting reference checks, it is our practice to talk directly with individuals who are or have been in a position to evaluate the candidate‟s performance on the job. These references and evaluations are combined in our own frank, objective appraisals of the candidates. 4. We mutually agree that any prospect developed through the Client means be brought to our attention to avoid duplication of effort and enable us to conduct independent evaluation of these prospects. 5. Once we have evaluated the potential candidates, we normally present the three most qualified individuals to the client for his consideration. Our firm prepares a detailed written report on our findings relative to these candidates, including reference check information, the candidates‟ track record and our evaluation. We personally present these reports and co- ordinate initial interviews. Normally, the client follows up these initial meetings with additional interviews to select the person who best satisfies the needs of the position. The final selection of the individual and the offer of employment are always made by the client. We are prepared to assist, when required, in establishing the terms of employment. [Appendix A] Problems with Putting Theory into Practice Prior to 2004 screening and pre interview assessment of candidates at MDI (Maxwell Drummond) was left to the discretion of individual researchers, however this led to a variance in quality of candidates provided to consultants dependant of the diligence of and technical understanding of the researchers undertaking the assignment. To rectify this and ensure throughout the Maxwell Drummond a more robust and standardized product to consultants and more effective utilization of time by researchers, the decision was made companywide to adopt an “Acid Test” screening document. This was initially rolled out in North America in 2004 but has been adopted company wide since 2006. The Acid Test means that prior to being put forward to interview with a consultant a candidate must answer a number of key questions relating to their experience, technical skill set, interest and mobility that make sure that they are in the first instance a good fit for the position they are being contacted for.
  • 11. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 11 An example of where this has added value is previously MDI would undertake an assignment to source a drilling engineer for an operator. This position would recognize the candidate to have skills and experience in all the key areas of well construction – casing design, drill string design, torque and drag and well planning. [Appendix H] However, some people, titled Drilling Engineer in the service sector, would only have skills in one area of well construction, i.e. directional drilling, without the technical know how a researcher would not be able to readily differentiate between the two, however, by applying the acid test, which is linked to key competencies of the role, even a researcher with limited technical knowledge can screen unsuitable candidates and make sure the consultants time is not wasted on non productive interviews. In conclusion, adopting on Acid Test screening document has been successful, in ensuring a more robust and standardized way for researchers (headhunters) to provide candidates to consider a higher ratio of effective interviews, undertaken by consultants and non-technically minded researchers to screen candidates from diverse technical backgrounds. [Appendix I] In the case of Futurestep, an additional challenge was that a new Client, OMEL, an Indian Company, was a new entrant to the EU market. They had their own ideas and convictions about the salary levels and person specifications for the roles they have instructed us to recruit for. It took quite a while for our senior client partners to persuade and educate the Client about the UK recruitment market conditions and legislation, which was counter- productive to our team schedule. We had to take a few detours and presented the UK employment market analysis before going into the process of headhunting candidates who we thought would be right for the particular Client. It was difficult to assess fully timescales at this junction. However, if engaged by our Client, OMEL, we would propose to develop a full project plan with detailed timelines. It should be noted that the usual timeline for an assignment: a shortlist of candidates for each role is usually ready for a client to interview within 6 weeks of commencing the work. Client interviews and offer/acceptance is where delays can occur but should be avoided. The UK most senior candidates will have notice periods of 1-3 months in their contracts of employment. [Appendix A] Summary of Findings We found out about the importance of the following components of a pre-selection process, which are essential for achievement of optimal results in pre-selection stage: acid test,
  • 12. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 12 accuracy of pre-screening, education of a client, advisory services and accurate job descriptions and person specifications. Our recent experience with a number of clients has shown that unless a company understands this market fully, has a strong and attractive proposition (in terms of company, role and package) and moves quickly and professionally then they will not be successful in attracting the talent they require to drive their business forward. [Appendix A] We have reviewed the Job Descriptions, Person Specifications and also “Acid Tests”, built upon them both at Maxwell Drummond and Futurestep. We have consolidated our perspectives on the market and made a number of comments below: We understood that the main focus for the technical recruitment for our Client‟s business is to identify and attract experienced talent; managers with a sound project supervisory experience. This talent is indeed in short supply and very much has a price premium attached to it. Thus, the general observation that we would require is to have a strong proposition and be able to move very quickly to attract such people has to be understood. As many of these roles are in an initial „start-up‟ business then it is likely that these people will be in a very exposed (stand alone) position with little or no technical support. If that is the case then it is more likely that we would need to fill these positions with highly experienced personnel who have had previous „start-up‟ experience. These people will be, by default, expensive. Having looked at our current data, salaries of ÂŁ200-ÂŁ500k would not be unusual. Our view (irrespective of the level seniority/importance for these positions) is that it will be very difficult to produce a shortlist of 2/3 candidates for each of these positions and that it can be helpful to take potential candidates on a “drip-feed” basis. A difficulty will be extracting candidates who would be potentially losing favorable pensions and cash incentives for a new start up. [Appendix A] Conclusions There are two types of conclusions we have arrived at: The first conclusion is that we should use a carefully collated “Acid Test”, based on job description and person specification, to filter candidates through. This “Acid Test” will help headhunters with non-technical background to make a correct decision about suitability a candidate.
  • 13. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 13 The second conclusion is that the role of executive search consultants is to play a pivotal role in defining the selection criteria of candidates in alliance with the Client‟s recruitment team. We came to the conclusion that the following modus operandi is the best for working with new international entrant-Clients within the oil and gas sector: We will produce a job and person specification for use in attracting candidates. This will be sent to a Client for any required amendments. We have carried out a number of assignments in the oil and gas industry and would expect to consolidate our knowledge and contacts to produce an agreed target list of people and companies, i.e. a search universe. We would also seek the views of key individuals in the relevant markets on who the best candidates are. We would discuss this long list of potential candidates with a client. We will then approach these potential candidates, court interest and assess their suitability through interview, search assessment and cross-referencing. We will submit a shortlist of suitable people with consultant‟s comments. We prefer to meet with a client face-to-face to do this. We will arrange interviews for the candidates with a client. We will then work closely with a client to handle the offer to the chosen candidates. When we have identified a final list of candidates we will take out formal reference checks. Recommendations In the present market conditions, there is a need in defining mutually agreed and universally accepted search criteria with a Client. This would involve an agreement about contemporary trends in salary levels and qualification requirements to candidates, depending in which region of the world and at what level of seniority a recruitment process is taking place. [Appendix A] Throughout the search process we would provide the Client with regular update reports and seek the Client‟s feedback on the work in hand. At the same time, there is a real need in structuring a search and selection work done by researchers, headhunting top personnel, through the “Acid Tests”. In addition to the executive search offering, consultants should also offer a range of business intelligence services which are designed to help the Clients consolidate their position in the market and gain valuable insight into their competitors‟ strengths and weaknesses.28
  • 14. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 14 The business intelligence services should be designed to provide the Clients with all the information they need to make key decisions across a range of areas including hiring, budgeting, business planning, remuneration and general strategy.28 Each of the following suggested points should create a solution, customized to a Client‟s particular needs: Competitor Intelligence: this product provides a Client with detailed information on an agreed list of key competitors. Areas covered would include organizational structure, product strengths, P&L, hiring history and threat analysis Client Analysis: by providing far-reaching insights into specific clients, consultants should help Clients to serve those clients better, thereby maximizing revenue Succession Planning / Benchmarking: this type of project allows you to benchmark your current employees against their counterparts in other institutions; this can be a useful measure against unexpected team departures, allowing you minimize the impact of losing key personnel Perception Analysis: A Client knows what they think of their competitors and clients, but what do competitors think of a Client? The consultant‟s perception analysis reports should give a true and accurate profile of the way the market assesses a Client‟s product offering, their business and the people within it New Market Entry Analysis: this product allows a Client to assess a market which they may be considering entering. A consultant should be able to identify your potential competitors‟ strengths and weaknesses, thereby helping you to avoid their mistakes and improve upon their successes 28 Learning Outcomes The Futurestep model demonstrates the importance of defining at the outset universally agreed selection criteria, so that both the search company and the client recruitment team are selecting and making recruitment decisions on the same criteria. This means that there is a standardized and efficient product provided by the researches to the consultant. We have learnt that the recruitment process for the oil and gas industry on the international stage is sophisticated and includes more stages than regional. This means that a recruitment consultant, working on the international stage, needs to take into consideration more factors of uncertainty as an affect of international Clients‟ decision-making on pre- selected candidates.
  • 15. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 15 The Maxwell Drummond model demonstrates that it is important to make sure that there is an adequate pre-selection tool in place and that a researcher receives a sufficient training in headhunting for technical roles and also prompted to make a correct pre-selection decision with a help of an “Acid Test”. Bibliography 1. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 1 2. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 11 3. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 3, page 26 4. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 1 5. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 1-2 6. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 5; REC DipRP Module 2 2006- 7, Chapter 11, page 9; REC DipRP Module 2 2006-7, Chapter 11, Page 10 7. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 2 8. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 2 9. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 3 10. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 3 11. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 4 12. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 7 13. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 7 14. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 8 15. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 9 16. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, page 13 17. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 9-11 18. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 5, Page 11-12 19. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 5; REC Dip RP Module 2 2006-7, Chapter 11, Page 15 20. REC DipRP Module 2 2006-7, Chapter 11. page 16 21. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 10 22. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, Page 11 23. “How to Manage the Search Consultant you are Working With” by Sherri l. Rosenberg, part “Excerpts from On Target, The Newsletter of the Executive Search Roundtable”
  • 16. The Effectiveness of a Pre-Selection Decision at a Search and Selection Firm Natalia Kotelnikova REC Member Number 00062426 2006/07 16 24. REC DipRP 2006-7 Module 1, Chapter 4, page 10 25. REC DipRP Module 1 2006-7, Chapter 4, page 11 26. Futurestep Research Manual 2006 27. Maxwell Drummond Search Training Manual 28. http://www.akamaifinancial.com/executive_search.html