Headhunter

A headhunter (executive recruiter or search consultant) proactively identifies and approaches qualified candidates — typically employed and not actively looking — on behalf of client organizations seeking to fill specific roles. The core headhunter value proposition is access to the passive talent market: candidates who would never see or respond to a job posting but who will consider a compelling, personalized approach from a trusted search professional who has taken the time to understand their background and present a relevant opportunity. The distinction from contingency recruiters is engagement model: retained headhunters are paid a portion of fees regardless of outcome, aligning their incentive with a thorough, high-quality search, while contingency headhunters are paid only on placement, incentivizing speed over thoroughness.