Headhunter

A headhunter — also known as an executive recruiter or retained search consultant — is a recruiting professional who proactively identifies and pursues candidates for specific roles, rather than waiting for applications to come in. Headhunters typically work on senior-level, executive, or highly specialized positions where the talent pool is small and passive recruiting (posting and waiting) is insufficient.

Headhunters work on behalf of the employer, not the candidate — the company pays their fee, which is typically 20-35% of the hired candidate's first-year salary. This fee structure means headhunters are motivated to find the best possible match and close placements efficiently. They may work on a retained basis (paid upfront to conduct a search) or contingency basis (paid only upon successful placement).

If a headhunter contacts you, it generally means you have been identified as a potential match for a role they are filling. Respond professionally even if you are not interested — the relationship may benefit you in the future. Provide your updated resume and be transparent about your situation and expectations. Building relationships with reputable headhunters in your industry can provide access to opportunities you would never see on job boards.