Retained search, the preferred client engagement model of RSG Talent, is a more rigorous search process that is well-defined and highly structured. This type of search requires a monthly retainer and bonus that in total will equal an agreed upon percentage of a hire’s first year salary. Under this model, RSG Talent takes the following approach to completing an assignment:
- Knowledge: RSG Talent starts the assignment by developing expert knowledge of a client organization. RSG Talent will be representing the client in the market and needs to act as an extension of the business to be effective.
- Profile Development: RSG partners with the client to develop an accurate understanding of the talent need and the attributes that make employees successful within a client organization.
- Market Research: As the profile and need are established, RSG Talent then develops research of the best talent available in the market.
- Candidate Engagement: Based on the market research, RSG Talent begins engaging that talent whether they are actively searching for a new role or not. The best talent is not always in the market, and RSG Talent will engage and introduce those types of candidates to the search.
- Ongoing Partnering and Role Modification: As the search process continues and candidates begin to interview, RSG Talent continues to work with the client to ensure the defined role is actually the role that is in need of being filled. The search process often leads to modifications in the role based on what the client learns through the interview process and having greater discussions with internal team members.
- Interviewing Process Counsulting: As candidates interview, RSG Talent will provide clients counsel on appropriate strategies for interviewing.
- Offer Creation, Extension and Hire: Once a candidate is selected for offer, RSG Talent will work on behalf of the client to develop an offer and help close the offer with the candidate.
- Post Hire Communication: When a candidate is hired, RSG Talent will stay engaged with the hire for 3 months after hire to ensure the transition to the client organization is effective.
There is a perceived disadvantage of retained search is that the Client has to pay for the search, regardless of whether a hire is made. However, that is not true at RSG Talent. RSG Talent will always work a search until a hire is made. If the client decides to discontinue the search because of business need, RSG Talent will credit the fees paid towards a new search.