For many
executives, partnering with a search firm can feel like stepping into the
unknown. You’re accomplished, you’re in demand, and you’ve likely built your
career through a mix of talent, timing, and relationships — but when it’s time
to explore a new opportunity, the process can look different at the leadership
level.
At Richard,
Wayne & Roberts (RWR), we believe transparency is key. Whether you’re an
active candidate or quietly considering your next move, understanding what to
expect from the executive search process helps you make the most of it. Here’s
a look behind the curtain — from that first call to the moment you accept your
offer.
1. The
Discovery Call: Building Trust from the Start
Your journey
with RWR begins with a conversation, not an interrogation. In our first call,
we focus on understanding you: your career story, leadership style,
priorities, and what success looks like in your next role.
This isn’t
just about filling a position. It’s about alignment. We ask questions about
your goals, culture fit, and ideal team environment so we can identify
opportunities that genuinely move your career forward. You can also expect us
to be candid about where your experience aligns best — because we value
long-term placement success over quick wins.
2. Behind
the Scenes: The Search Process in Motion
After our
initial discussion, our recruiters get to work. RWR’s search process combines
industry specialization, deep market intelligence, and personal relationships
built over decades.
We conduct a
full-market scan, reviewing confidential mandates from clients, assessing
leadership requirements, and matching them to your background. During this
phase, our team may request updated materials (like your resume or LinkedIn
profile) and guide you on how to best present your experience for
executive-level consideration.
What sets
RWR apart is our hands-on approach. Every candidate we present is someone we’ve
personally vetted, ensuring a strong mutual fit for both the client and the
candidate.
3. The
Introduction: Presenting You to the Client
Once we
identify a strong match, we present your credentials to the client with a
customized profile that highlights your leadership impact, strategic
achievements, and cultural alignment.
We don’t
simply forward resumes. Our presentation includes insights into your
professional strengths, management style, and what makes you stand out. This
level of detail helps our clients view you as more than a name on a list — but
as a potential strategic partner for their organization.
4.
Interview Preparation: Setting You Up for Success
When you
move into the interview phase, RWR provides full preparation support. Our
recruiters brief you on the client’s background, leadership team, company
culture, and expectations.
We coach you
through key talking points and potential questions, so you can enter each
conversation with confidence and clarity. For many executives, this tailored
preparation makes the difference between a good interview and a game-changing
one.
5. The
Feedback Loop: Honest Communication Throughout
Transparency
is part of our DNA. After every interview, we collect detailed feedback from
both sides and relay it to you promptly. If adjustments are needed, whether in
communication style, salary expectations, or interview strategy — we address
them openly.
Our goal is
to create alignment, not pressure. That’s why many candidates describe RWR as a
true career partner rather than a recruiter.
6. The
Offer Stage: Guiding You Through the Finish Line
Once the
client decides to move forward, RWR becomes your advocate and advisor. We help
negotiate compensation packages, outline benefits, and ensure both sides feel
confident in the final agreement.
We also
assist with resignation planning and transition strategy, maintaining
confidentiality and professionalism until your start date.
7.
Post-Placement: Staying Connected Beyond Day One
At RWR, our
relationship doesn’t end when the offer is signed. We check in after placement
to ensure your onboarding goes smoothly and that the role aligns with your
expectations. Many of our candidates become lifelong partners, returning to us
later as clients seeking to build their own leadership teams.
Final
Thoughts
The
executive search process shouldn’t feel like a mystery. When you partner with
RWR, you gain a trusted advisor who knows the nuances of senior-level
recruitment and values your career as much as you do.
From that
first call to your final offer — and well beyond — we’re here to help you make
confident, strategic career moves that shape the next chapter of your success.