Headhunter vs Executive Search Firm

You may consider a headhunter and executive recruiter as one in the same but their operating models are different.

Headhunters are paid on a contingency basis. They are paid if companies hire the talent they present to them. They generally go after actively engaged talent seeking opportunities now. It’s all about vetting and moving through the process effectively that results in a hire.

Executive search firms are paid by retainer made by organizations and generally target passive candidates. Many times, it’s for a reorg within the company and a good deal of the roles are not made public.

Important to note. You should never pay for the services of either. Headhunters and Executive search firms are paid by the company who hires them or hires the talent brought to them. If anyone represents themselves as a recruiter and is seeking any type of compensation, please excuse yourself from conversing with them any further.