TNS Search Process - TNS Partners' Philosophy

Executive search and selection is a specialized management consulting discipline in which the objective is the identification, evaluation and recruitment of individuals who possess the specific knowledge, expertise, and personal qualities required by the client.  In identifying candidates, TNS Partners concentrates on individuals who are successfully employed, who are recommended as having the qualifications we seek, and who may otherwise not be attentive to a new opportunity.  We are occasionally a conduit for people who are actively in the job market.  Our responsibility, as a firm, is to the client organization and addressing, specifically, its exacting needs.  TNS Partners undertakes engagements on an exclusive basis only and does not conduct searches in conjunction with other firms.  Additionally, we never "parallel process" candidates and they are considered for only one engagement at a time.

Introductory Consultation

Before an assignment is initiated, we consult with the client to develop an understanding of the organization and the specific requirements of the position to be filled.  We also gain insight into the company's philosophy, its management style and cultural environment.  Often our experience with previous assignments enables us to assist in assessing the demands of the position, the qualifications of the individual who can best fit and the expectations in view of the realities of the marketplace.

Development of a Search Specification

Once a consensus is reached regarding the requirements for the position and the qualifications of the ideal candidate, a detailed search summary is prepared.  This specification outlines our mutual observations, perceptions and expectations.  It becomes the benchmark for our initial inquiries and continuing discussions with candidates.  This document, along with a letter of confirmation, sets forth the objective of the search and states the terms and conditions under which TNS Partners will manage the search assignment.

Formulation of the Search Strategy

There are several ingredients essential to the successful completion of a search assignment, beginning with considerable basic research focused on companies likely to employ qualified candidates for the position. We conduct detailed research and analysis and scrutinize potential sources by evaluating:

  • industry segments

  • customer base
  • competitors
  • technology
  • geography/location
  • channels
In addition, we capitalize upon our extensive network of personal contacts developed through previous searches.  The result of this research effort is our current database of knowledgeable sources. Confidential calls are made to these individuals in order to identify potential candidates, either directly or through referrals.  From this process, candidates are targeted for interviewing based on their qualifications and interest level.  A good network of senior level executive contacts is a key factor in identifying qualified candidates.

Search Calibration

After a preliminary slate of candidates is developed, a meeting with the client is scheduled to review the status of the search.  This meeting ensures that the correct mix of industries, qualifications, experience, and background has been targeted.  Also, issues critical to the successful completion of the search, such as level of experience, scope of responsibilities, and compensation are discussed.  Modifications are made, as necessary, and the process moves forward.

Personal interviews of the selected candidates are then conducted by the TNS Consultant managing the search.  Through these interviews, a slate of the most qualified candidates is developed and presented to the client.

Candidate Presentation and Client Interviews

Typically, three to five candidates are presented to the client.  These candidates have been evaluated, through the interview process, as being especially well qualified, and each is introduced to the client through an individual written report.  This report or candidate presentation details information about the candidate's current responsibilities, career experience, accomplishments and personal background.  The presentation is comprised of a detailed career history and a narrative of several pages.  At this point, candidate interviews are arranged at the client's convenience.  Ideally, interviews should be scheduled as close together as possible, to allow the client to develop well-grounded and timely points of comparison.

Reference Verification

Prior to client presentation, preliminary reference verifications are completed for each candidate.  These include confirming college degrees and employment history, as well as contacting professional colleagues of each candidate.

Presentation of an Offer and Completion of Assignment

Typically, we provide recommendations to our client regarding the structure of a compensation package configured to attract the finalist.  In most cases, we serve as an intermediary to work through differences or details in any effort to complete an assignment to the mutual benefit of all.

Follow-Up

Although the recruiting process is complete when an offer is accepted, we remain in contact with the client, as well as the successful candidate to provide assistance, if necessary, as time progresses.  This is done throughout the first twelve months of the new executive's employment.

Search Duration

The complete search process takes time and involves an exhaustive multi-step process: research, sourcing, screening, calibration, consultant interview, presentation, client interview, selection, and follow-up.  It is critical that each of the steps is taken to completion, as this assures that the widest array of qualified candidates is available for evaluation and review.

Research begins when the position specification is finalized, with a target of presenting qualified candidates for client review in six (6) weeks or less.  The greatest time variable in a search is the actual client and candidate interview process.  Since there can be any number of interview visits and candidate iterations, it is our role to ensure that the process retains the original sense of urgency and is conducted within a reasonable time frame.

 
TNS Partners, Inc.
3600 Shire Boulevard  Suite 208

Richardson, Texas  75082
(214) 369-3565