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Contingency vs. Retained Search: Which is Right for You?

Robert Miller • August 16, 2024

Contingency vs. Retained Search: Which is Right for You?


Contingency Search Process

In the Contingency Model, recruiters juggle multiple roles—typically 5 to 15—on a "No Win, No Fee" basis. They prioritize opportunities based on criteria such as company reputation, growth potential, and ease of filling the role. However, challenging positions with niche skill sets or less-known companies often take a backseat, leading to reduced chances of filling these roles.


Clients often mistakenly believe that involving multiple agencies increases their chances of finding candidates. In reality, it dilutes efforts, as only 15-20% of the talent pool is active at any time. Multiple recruiters reaching out to the same candidates can create confusion and deter potential hires, prompting them to question why the role is so hard to fill.


Additionally, the fast-paced nature of contingency recruiting means less time is spent evaluating candidate fit, which can lead to frustrations for clients seeking quality hires.


When to Use Contingency Search

This model works best for easy-to-fill positions, allowing clients to collaborate with multiple recruiters without commitment. This approach does have its value for you if you are able to find a Contingency firm that still operates similar to a Retained firm and does in-depth, face to face interviews, rather than throwing many resumes at you.


Retained Search Process

For more challenging roles—like niche, senior, or confidential positions—a Retained Search is often more effective. This method requires a financial commitment from clients, enabling a thorough search process.

The process starts with a comprehensive briefing involving all stakeholders, defining key aspects such as role responsibilities, cultural fit, and target companies. The retained search firm conducts in-depth interviews with qualified candidates and maintains regular communication with the client, providing valuable market insights.

Explore an overview of the in-depth process of "Best Practices" of a retained search.


Revised Cost Considerations

Many assume that retained search fees are significantly higher than contingency fees. However, this is not always the case. We offer retained search services that can be competitively priced, less than a contingency fee.


Explore how we are able to accomplish this and therefore able to provide

effective retained search results, for less than Contingency Fees.


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