Step 6 Communicate, communicate, communicate. Discuss how the search will be conducted, and agree on target dates. Be specific about the feedback you require. Make company resources, from senior personnel to organization charts, available to the consultant. And be available yourself for meetings, interviews and sudden questions.
Nothing discourages a consultant more than waiting days to get a call returned.
Inform the consultant immediately about any changes in the search, such as responsibilities or reporting relationships. And if you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call them. As the search progresses, your involvement will grow. When the consultant submits an assessment of the long list of candidates, be ready to offer feedback and guidance. When it's time to meet the candidates, make sure all your executives are briefed and committed.