CareerAlley

If you’ve been involved in a serious job search for any length of time, you’ve probably come across what I call “Scam Hunters”. These are companies that masquerade as recruiting firms and, once they contact you (and suck you in), try to sell you on a program where they claim they will “represent” you in your job search. The typical fee is $5,000 or so, but if they can get more $ out of you they will. If you do a search on these companies for complaints, you will find that most have numerous complaints and claims against them (this is certainly true for the four that have contacted me).

So my point today is this, a true recruiter (headhunter, executive search firm, etc.) will not charge you for their services. They are paid (either by retainer or contingency) by the hiring company. Many people decide to pay for services during their job search (resume writing, interview coaching, resume blasting, etc.) and this is money well spent if you need the help. But don’t be sucked in by these slick salespeople who will sell you something you don’t need and will probably never deliver. Do some research on these companies and you will see what I mean.

Now on to the real stuff.

• Leathwaite International – Leathwaite is an executive search firm that covers a broad range of professions (corporate services, finance, HR, Internal Audit, etc.), sectors (Asset Management, Investment Banking, etc.) and countries. Their website is a little strange, but click on Contact Us to get their address and telephone number.
• Abacus Group – The Abacus Group is a professional recruiting firm. Their main page has several tabs across the top (About Us, Candidates, Current Positions, etc.). You can take a look at their current positions, search by temporary/permanent and submit a resume. Their seach results page allows sorting by each column. The candidates page provides detail on the services provided, a link to their current positions and a list of the industries they cover.
• BAMM Inc. – BAMM is a professional staffing company that focuses on the Information Technology, Engineering, Financial, and Medical Fields. Clicking on the “Careers” tab takes you to a page where you can search for current openings. You can apply directly (if you find a match) or register for their site.
• Crist/Kolder Associates – Crist/Kolder focuses on “c-level” positions. From their main page you can follow the links to their team, their approach and the industries they cover. Clicking on “Contact Us” provides several methods for getting in touch with them (mail, email and phone).

I’ve mentioned this before but will bring it up again. Don’t be put off by a recruiting firm’s location. Many firms recruit for cities where they do not have a presence. If you are not sure, take a look at their current positions (where located) or contact them.

Good luck in yout search.