In today’s digital era, there is no dearth of options to find the right nonprofit search firms. However, the greatest challenge is to sort through all of them and identify truly knowledgeable search firms with a good reputation from the rest.
Initially, you would find that several companies that have a successful accomplishment record fill the nonprofit leadership roles that require certain rare combinations of skills as well as personality traits to face the rigors.
Noted below are a few suggestions to find the best search firms specializing in nonprofit organizations:
- Online Information Channels: Google to find the right answer. The powerhouse of resources, the internet, has a lot to offer. However, you have to be very sure before making the right choice. Some companies offer options like “top ranking search firms” only to include their company name in that list and make sure it appears on the Google search results on the first page. Make sure you are looking closely enough to understand how many such lists were compiled. To get excellent advice and tips, check out some of the most trusted websites from highly acclaimed groups offering various tips.
- Trustworthy Search Networks for Nonprofits: Like nonprofit firms, reputed search firms also have networks for sharing their best practices adhering to the code of ethics. NNSC or the Network of Nonprofit Search Consultants in Canada and the USA is one of the finest examples of such networks. Members of this network specialize in providing search services.
- Nonprofit Affiliates or Alliances for Organizations: Prepare a list of the memberships and affiliations of the nonprofit you are considering. Depending on the sector, the agency might be a part of several peer organizations sharing a common cause or vision. For instance, organizations serving families and children belong to one community, whereas others belong to another. Contact nonprofit associations statewide or the national network of such agencies and check if the selected firm is experienced.
- Professional Memberships: Contact professional groups working towards the benefits of nonprofit firms. Many such member associations will help you find the most suitable candidate depending on the position that needs to be filled. It is the most helpful approach to find respected peers in a specific field.
- Job Postings and Sites: Look out for nonprofit job postings to find if any of the recruiting firms are looking for candidates to fill a position. If recruiters are involved, there is a separate process leading to the company website besides the nonprofit’s website. Make sure to communicate with your client organization to get feedback about the experience with firms.
- Personal Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or recommendations from search firms in the social circles. Personal recommendations and word-of-mouth are always valuable in the search. Connect your dots by browsing social networks like LinkedIn connections to check the credentials of candidates.
Once you have shortlisted the search firms you want to consider, contact each of these companies and describe the situation to select your best fit. You may want to consider their experience and recruiting style before proceeding.
