A recruiting engagement where the search firm is paid only upon successful placement of a candidate, with no upfront fees or exclusivity requirements.
Contingency search operates on a 'no placement, no fee' basis, making it a lower-risk option for employers. Multiple recruiting firms may work on the same position simultaneously, competing to present qualified candidates first. Fees typically range from 20-30% of the placed candidate's first-year compensation, paid after the candidate starts. While contingency search works well for mid-level and specialized professional positions, it is generally less suitable for C-suite and senior executive roles where confidentiality, extensive research, and dedicated assessment processes are required. The competitive nature of contingency search means firms prioritize speed, which can sometimes come at the expense of thoroughness.
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