Before targeting recruiters, one needs to understand the two main types of executive search firms and recruiters. Contingency recruiters are paid after the search process when the client decides to hire one of the recruiter's proposed candidates. Retained executive search firms charge a consulting fee — paid as a monthly retainer or a percentage of the candidate's salary. I work with a retained search firm, and we are hired by companies, our clients, who pay us to find candidates. Below are nine tips to help candidates land a job by connecting with an executive search consultant without having to pay for anything.

---