What makes a successful search consultant?

This is a very difficult question to answer, but one which our executive search firm would like to answer in a really strong and substantive way.

On the one hand, not just the ability to sell, but perhaps more important, the ability to manage client relationships at very senior level. That particular task needs a more ongoing personality. However, there are more reflective tasks: for example, interviewing. A headhunter needs to be an excellent listener, receptive, willing and able to see the difference in people's backgrounds and how those people might fit into a very different environment.

A strong measure of creativity is required, not just ability to see the obvious. In addition, a strong administrative capability is desirable in order to be able to manage themselves and the large amount of work, in a quality-conscious and timely fashion. Apart from that, a consultant should have the ability not just to be an egoist but to integrate with a team of people; they should also have the strength of purpose to be able to get results and to keep going through adversity.

Another important attribute is the ability to work for long periods almost independently, not alienated but also be able to integrate with the team.