Open season for the headhunting industry

Debbie Goodman-Bhyat, MD of Jack Hammer Executive Headhunters, says now is the ‘season' for headhunting.

“For the next two to three months, we will see heightened activity in the industry as companies seek candidates that have the skills to implement new strategies.”

Goodman-Bhyat, who has been in the headhunting business for more than 10 years placing SA's top executives in the financial services sector, says that since December 2007 her company has been contracted to fill scores of top positions.

“We usually experience a 20% – 30% increase in the number of briefs we receive from our clients around this time of year,” she says.

Three month average

She explains that the placement process takes on average three months and that companies should factor this into their planning. “Smart companies will have already kicked off the headhunting process, capitalising on this time of year when people typically reassess their goals and are more open to change.”

In some cases, employees may also be suffering from ‘seasonal disgruntlement'.

“If they haven't already received their annual bonuses, employees are likely to have some idea of what their bonuses will be. They may feel they are not getting the financial recognition they deserve. The offer of a joining bonus from another organisation may encourage a candidate to accept an offer,” says Goodman-Bhyat.

She does, however, note that these joining bonuses mostly have retention clauses attached. “Candidates should be aware that they will be required to pay back all or some of the money should they leave their new position within a specified time frame,” she says.

Preferred method

In the current economic climate, where top level skills shortages continue to plague the SA corporate world, Goodman-Bhyat concludes that headhunting has become the preferred method of recruitment at executive and director level.

“It remains a reality that experienced candidates with top qualifications, specialised skills and leadership talent are in great demand. In the highly competitive and complex environment of recruitment, companies are increasingly tending to outsource the expertise needed to secure the right employees for their organisations.”