What Is the Job of a Headhunter?
A headhunter is a specific type of employment recruiter. Headhunters are hired by a company to attempt to recruit employees from their competitors. Headhunters are the most aggressive and resourceful breed of recruiter.
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History
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Headhunters gained their name because they hunt the employees of other companies. Their goal is to poach from another company's "headcount."
Why They Are Hired?
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Most companies do not like to directly target their competitor's staff. They feel it shows poor sportsmanship and can sometimes lead to litigation between companies. However, a third party--a headhunter--is independent. He is not bound by the same restrictions.
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Who Do Headhunters Target?
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Headhunters are hired to go after what are called "passive candidates." Passive candidates are not currently looking for work. Passive candidates are attractive to employers because they are currently working and subsequently are of proven value to one of their competitors. They are also assumed to be loyal, as opposed to those always looking for something new.
How Headhunters Work
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Headhunters have gained their reputation for aggression because they are fearless. Unlike corporate recruiters, who wait to receive applications from candidates, headhunters target and cold call prospective candidates--often calling them directly at their current job.
What Do Headhunters Make?
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Headhunters are paid a percentage of the targeted employee's annual salary. Headhunting fees range from fifteen to forty percent.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Headhunter?
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Headhunters usually come from a Human Resources background. Headhunters are better able to do their jobs if they understand benefits, compensation and employee law. However, some headhunters come from a sales background and succeed due to their willingness to be aggressive when conducting a search.
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