Sirona Says

Could this approach to passive candidates work?

Headhunting / executive search / passive candidate attraction have all been around for ages, and there doesn't seem to be much innovation in the sector. So while reading an article by Kevin Nale, one of his points intrigued me. He advocates creating a short professional introduction video, personalised to the target candidate you are trying to 'hook'. In other words, a simple personal request for a coffee or lunch meeting to discuss the opportunity face to face.

I think the idea is good, and certainly inventive as some of these candidates are elusive to say the least! As Kevin says, 'if your pipeline is diminishing, just remember it is not you, it's how you are presenting the great opportunity'. My only problem with this is the logistics of this idea, the numbers needed, and how you deliver this video file so that the target candidate watches it.

One thing for sure though, is that they will really appreciate the time you have taken to record a video specially for them, won't they?

Do you know anyone who has tried this method?

Big fat retainers - the new insurance policy?

Everyone has heard the phrase, 'your reputation precedes you', but what if clients engaged you with large retainers for work they hope you won't do? What a nice job to have! Well a lady in the news currently is the top lawyer Fiona Shackleton, who recently defended Sir Paul McCartney against the viper tongued Heather Mills.

Her reputation does go before her and with a successful track record of winning high profile divorce cases (including two royal ones), she has found herself in an enviable position. A number of the worlds super-rich men actually retain Fiona's services (with huge retainers no doubt!) long before their marriage is even in trouble!!! Why, I hear you ask?  Simple really - it is their form of contingency insurance. It is aimed at stopping their wives using the formidable services of Fiona Shackleton, should the worst happen and they divorce!!

So before she is even needed, she has the pleasure of raising large invoices for work that may never happen!!  Is that a display of great business sense from these well-'healed men' or just extreme paranoia?