It is absolutely incumbent on Clients and Candidates to perform their own due diligence when using a search practice for their own purpose.

The Executive Search & Staffing industry is not regulated by any Government body. Thus it becomes even more critical to perform strong research on the reputation, capability, knowledge and experience of any search practice when retaining them to manage a mandate, or represent you the candidate. The identification of and relationship with a search firm is a two way street. Just as a search firm should perform rigorous diligence on any candidate, likewise the candidate should invest the time to ensure they are working with the 'right' firm that represents their own goals and objectives. As a candidate, it is your responsibility to perform your own due diligence.

If you care about your career, find the firm that truly specializes in your market and one that you feel a strong comfort level with. This requires you to invest time to find out who the real & right players are in your market! Inquire as to their reputation, professional experience, industry connectivity, ethical commitment, accreditations and professional and industry affiliations. These are all critical components in assessing whether the firm is the right practitioner for you. Make sure that you find a search firm that cares as much about their own reputation and integrity as you do your own! Remember: just like any profession, not all firms are made equal.