This is a phrase I often hear from clients when discussing the search strategy that underpins our business. At North Search, we are search specialists. LinkedIn is just one key tool in our arsenal. However, with the constant rate of change across the industry sectors we represent, it is vital that we exhaust all avenues of information to source the correct people to fulfil a mandate. Some examples of our other key information sources include: 

• Business websites 
• Project reports 
• Government tenders and announcements 
• Discussions within the market 
• Contact and company data software (Lusha) 

Each of these information sources allow us to achieve a greater level of understanding of both the organisations we represent and the candidates we aim to source for specific roles. Business websites provide clear direction and insights into a team’s personnel and capability – allowing us to capture key information on candidate potential. Government portals, tender announcements and project milestones are also highly beneficial, allowing us to gain insight into leaders pioneering such projects and map out potential career progression opportunities for such. 

Our network connections in adjoining environments support us in gaining key insights into market leaders whom we may want to approach. We expand our network by picking up the phone to seek out live market insights, which often leads to industry referrals. This helps us to deliver quality, trusted and recommended candidates to our clients. 

As a search consultant at North Search, I’m lucky enough to work with a universe of information at my fingertips each day. From contact capturing software to direct conversation insights, our data ensures that each placement is driven by the assurance we are making the most informed placement possible. 

Although LinkedIn consumes just one part of our search process, it certainly has nuances of its own. LinkedIn users may not post for months on end – particularly the executive-level and technically niche individuals we interact with. Small details such as mutual connections, pages followed and recently liked posts or comments aid to fill in the information voids on profiles. 

We recognise the importance of casting a wide net at the beginning of a search to gain as much viable information on the candidate market as possible. At North Search, our ability and drive to go beyond face value are critical in ensuring a deep coverage of the market. If you would like to find out more about the future of technology and human connection in executive search, check out our recent blog here.

Interested to hear more about our search process? Visit our services pages and make sure to get in touch to discuss how North Search can support your organisation.