What is the difference between a retained and a contingent search firm?
As a retained search firm, our service is designed to save the employer time. We conduct a thorough interview and screening with potential candidates and then we present a select group of candidates to our clients based on an in depth survey of their needs. Companies tend to pay retainers for positions that are particularly difficult to fill and for higher level positions within their organizations. Our clients retain us to partner with them to drive the hiring process for each position and save them time in hiring the best possible candidates. Contingent search firms receive payment from the client only after a candidate is hired. As a result, contingent firms typically cannot afford the same level of focus as a retained firm on each search and/or individual candidate interview. Contingent search firms tend to be focused on, but are not limited to, mid-to lower level positions in an organization. These positions tend to be, but are not limited to positions that pay less than $100,000.
