You can use the recruiter scorecard to assess prospective recruiters. Answer each question by choosing yes, no, or maybe. Each yes counts for 5 points. Each no is worth 0 points. And for each maybe, add 2-1/2 points.
To tally the scorecard, add up your points.
The Recruiter Scorecard
| Question | Yes | No | Maybe |
| Is the recruiter free to recruit from your direct competitors? | |||
| Does the recruiter understand the role you need to fill? | |||
| Will an experienced recruiter perform the search? | |||
| Does the recruiter have experience with similar recruiting projects? | |||
| Does the recruiter have a high success rate? | |||
| Does the recruiter offer a performance guarantee? | |||
| Will the recruiter represent your company in a satisfactory manner? | |||
| Will the recruiter be the one who makes initial contact with prospective candidates? | |||
| Does the recruiter understand what a typical search entails? | |||
| Can the recruiter articulate a well-conceived search strategy? | |||
| Has the recruiter ever had profit and loss (P&L) responsibilities? | |||
| Does the recruiter's domain expertise help you? | |||
| Is the recruiter located in the same geographic area as the position? | |||
| Can the recruiter devote adequate time to your search? | |||
| Will the recruiter work on your search until it is successfully completed? | |||
| Does the recruiter conduct business in an ethical manner? | |||
| Will the recruiter approach active and passive candidates with equal fervor? | |||
| Can the recruiter structure executive compensation packages? | |||
| Does the recruiter have experience relocating executives? | |||
| Is the recruiter willing to meet with all relevant stakeholders? | |||
| Can you see the recruiter becoming a true partner? | |||
| Is the recruiter objective? | |||
| Does your recruiter have a sensible process for checking references? | |||
| Will the recruiter provide you with highly detailed supplemental candidate information, such as a confidential candidate brief? | |||
| Subtotals | |||
| Total Score | |||
- 80 to 120 points: You should seriously consider partnering with this recruiter.
- 60 to 79 points: This recruiter may be okay, but it wouldn't hurt to interview a few others to see if you can find someone better.
- 59 points or less: Don't hire this recruiter.
No recruiter on Earth will earn a perfect score. That doesn't mean he can't meet your needs.
