October 6, 2026
An executive recruiter is a human resources professional and a key hiring partner. How should your organization choose the right firm to recruit capable, inspiring leaders?
10 Questions to Ask an Executive Search Firm
In Quebec, human resources professionals may be members of the Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines agréés and hold the CRHA designation. Ask direct questions about the recruiter’s credentials, experience and professional standards, and expect clear answers.
How many years of experience do you have in Quebec
Choose an executive search firm that understands Quebec’s labour market, business environment and professional requirements. Every jurisdiction has its own realities, and the recruiter should know them.
Which industries and company sizes do you serve
Most firms specialize in certain industries, markets or types of organizations. Sector knowledge is not always mandatory, but it can make the search faster and improve the recruiter’s understanding of the role.
What positions and seniority levels do you specialize in
The more senior the position, the more complex the search. Executive recruitment requires the ability to assess leadership, strategic judgment and organizational fit, not only technical experience.
What is your executive recruitment methodology
Every mandate is different. The firm should explain its process, search strategy, assessment approach, communication schedule and the services included for the specific position.
How do you use AI and social media
Executive recruiters increasingly use AI for research, profile analysis, organization and writing. A search can still require dozens of hours of targeted work. Ask how the firm uses technology, validates its results and protects human judgment.
What services do you offer employers
The scope of service depends on the firm’s model and geographic reach. A local Quebec mandate may require a different approach from a national or international executive search. Confirm what is included from role definition to offer negotiation and follow-up.
How are your fees structured
Executive search firms may use different fee models. Each has advantages depending on the difficulty, urgency and exclusivity of the mandate. Ask the recruiter to explain the model and how it applies to your hiring project.
Do you require an upfront retainer
Many executive search firms require a retainer. It confirms the commitment of both parties and helps cover the research and advisory work performed during the first stages of the mandate.
What post-hire guarantee do you provide
Recruitment guarantees commonly range from three months to one year. Clarify the duration, the circumstances covered and whether the firm will restart the search if the person resigns or is dismissed.
Do you accept non-exclusive recruitment mandates
This depends on the firm’s business model. Many executive recruiters request exclusivity because it defines responsibilities, supports a thorough search and creates a clear commitment between the client and the firm.
Discover an Agile Executive Search Firm
Whether you are a small or medium-sized business or a large organization in the industrial, manufacturing, engineering or construction sector,
Recruscope can help you complete a successful executive hire.
You will work with a human resources partner who can support interviews and identify high-potential talent. We use the advantages of AI while preserving the irreplaceable value of direct, human conversation.
Learn more about Recruscope’s direct approach to executive search and contact us today.