So we want the best. This is the basic truism of an industry that relies on the talent and creativity of its staff as its fundamental service. Because of this, one might assume that design professionals are highly adept at recruiting. It would only make sense that they strategically and systematically identify, romance, and acquire the best talent they can find, much like a sports team finds players. However, if you are a design professional, you are quite aware that this is not at all how it is done.
Most firms use recruiting methods that are about as sophisticated as a horse and buggy.
Instead, they use them all concurrently to find the best possible talent. Executive search is a rigorous and time-consuming process, but when properly implemented, it identifies the most qualified candidates in the marketplace. Describe the available position and ask them to recommend qualified candidates for the position. This method will yield the names of highly respected professionals. People don't recommend mediocre candidates.