Executive Search – Sourcing & Selection
Identifying the right People.
Courting the best Candidates. Finding the right Match.
Whether you’re looking for an executive or a highly qualified expert in any area of your organization – the executive search process always begins with a thorough analysis of your starting point. What exactly is the role you’re looking to fill, what does the surrounding environment look like, and what specific factors need to be considered? The result is a shared understanding of the task at hand and a detailed requirements profile that enables targeted outreach within the relevant candidate market.
Executive Search Process – Phase 1: Analysis
The first phase of the executive search process – analysis – lays the foundation for a successful placement of your key position. In an in-depth project briefing, we capture all relevant aspects of your company, the role to be filled, and the specific responsibilities right from the start. Through a detailed collection and evaluation of key information, we, as executive search consultants specializing in executive search recruiting, develop a tailored requirements profile that outlines not only the ideal qualifications but also the relevant experience and personality traits of the executive you’re looking for.
The requirements profile is in place. Next comes the strategic planning phase, where we determine how to best approach the relevant candidate market. Four proven methods are used:
- Direct search: Through targeted, direct outreach, we identify candidates who match your requirements profile precisely – not only across Germany, but throughout Europe
- Internal database: Our extensive database provides fast access to vetted, highly qualified executives
- Online business networks: Platforms like LinkedIn enable us to conduct broad and targeted outreach to top talent worldwide through international executive search
- Confidential ads: In highly sensitive searches, we rely on confidential advertisements that combine wide exposure with strict discretion
Executive Search – Phase 2: Selection
Following the search phase, we move into the qualified selection of the most suitable candidates. We evaluate professional qualifications, management and leadership skills, and social competence, as well as alignment with your organization’s values and long-term objectives. At the end of the day, future employees also need to be a personal fit. After all, they should be able to reach their full potential over time, grow positively, and ultimately secure and expand your company’s success.
The selection phase of the executive search begins with a comprehensive pre-screening, where we as headhunters for C-level executive search first identify the most promising talents through a thorough review of their profiles. This is followed by initial phone interviews, during which we make a first assessment of suitability and verify the candidates’ core qualifications and motivations.
Following the initial selection, we conduct in-depth personal interviews with the shortlisted candidates as part of our executive search consulting process. These interviews allow us to deepen the evaluation and thoroughly assess professional qualifications, management capabilities, and social skills. This ensures that candidates are not only technically qualified but also a strong cultural fit for your organization.
Executive Search – Phase 3: Candidate Presentation
The final phase of the executive search process is the presentation of the selected candidates. At this stage, the goal is to introduce your organization to the top talent identified during the selection process. We begin by preparing confidential reports that provide a detailed written assessment of each highly qualified candidate’s professional and personal suitability. The reports provide you with a comprehensive overview of each candidate’s strengths, experience, and competencies, along with our well-founded recommendation on who should be invited for a personal interview.
After compiling the reports, we coordinate the candidate presentations as part of our executive search consulting services. During this stage, we accompany the selected candidates to interviews at your company and support both sides throughout the process with feedback and guidance. Our goal as an executive search firm? To ensure that both you and the candidates have a clear understanding of how well you align. The presentation is not only an opportunity to confirm the candidates’ professional qualifications and personal suitability – it’s also a chance to assess their long-term development potential within your organization.
As your partner for qualified leadership talent, we offer expert support in the following sectors, among others:
- Executive search for the automotive industry
- Executive search for the construction industry
- Executive search for real estate
- Executive search for the food industry
Why InterSearch Is the Right Executive Search Firm for You
InterSearch is your reliable partner in executive search because we offer customized solutions built on extensive experience and deep industry knowledge. Our philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of your individual requirements and a collaborative partnership. Using innovative methods and a strong international network, we identify outstanding talent that aligns perfectly with your company culture and strategic goals.
Four ways of approaching Candidates
Direct search
Online business networks
In-house database
Discrete concealed advertisements if necessary
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Questions & Answers about InterSearch PB Executive Search
We answer the most common questions that companies and executives have about executive search.
Executive search refers to the targeted, confidential direct approach to leadership talent for key positions. Unlike traditional recruiting methods, candidates are not sourced through public job postings but are identified and individually approached through exclusive networks, in-depth market research, and personal contacts. The focus is on passive candidates who are not actively seeking new roles but can be intentionally engaged for the right opportunity. This approach is especially valuable when filling positions with high strategic relevance – such as executive leadership, transformation roles, highly confidential mandates, or in markets with a limited pool of qualified candidates.
Our process follows a clearly defined four-phase model: analysis, identification, selection, and integration. We begin with a strategic role clarification, develop a customized search profile, and take on targeted direct outreach – both nationally and internationally. During the selection process, we evaluate more than just résumés – we assess leadership qualities, potential, and cultural fit. In the final phase, you receive confidential candidate dossiers with well-founded assessments. We also coordinate personal interviews, support contract negotiations, and actively assist with integration.
Recruiting agencies typically work with active jobseekers and promote openings broadly through job boards or professional networks. Our executive search, by contrast, is tailored, deeply researched, and discreet – specifically targeting so-called “passive candidates” who aren’t actively looking but may be open to new opportunities. Our consultants identify such profiles with discretion, analytical precision, and a direct approach – ensuring leadership roles are filled with long-term impact and accuracy. Unlike traditional service providers, InterSearch works strictly on a retained basis: individualized, exclusive, and always focused on what truly matters strategically.
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