For companies with an open position
Executive search or recruitment agency? The difference
Who suits your open position? The terms are often used interchangeably but mean different services and fee models. This overview helps you choose.
The terms at a glance
Recruitment agency
Introduces suitable candidates, often from its own network. Usually paid only on success, i.e. when you hire.
Executive search
Takes over the whole search: profile, market analysis, direct approach, selection and advice. Usually a fixed fee in instalments (retainer).
Headhunter
Approaches suitable people directly who aren't actively looking. That can be an executive search firm or a recruiter.
Temporary staffing
The worker stays employed by the staffing agency and works for you. You pay an hourly bill rate.
How to choose the right route
- 1
Classify the position
A sought-after skilled role with candidates on the market, or a rare key position?
- 2
Speed
If it has to be quick, several recruiters search in parallel. Companies often give sensitive searches exclusively to one firm.
- 3
Budget and risk
A success fee is only due on hiring. A retainer is due even if no one is hired in the end.
- 4
Duration of the need
Permanent: placement or executive search. Temporary or fluctuating: temporary staffing.
- 5
Check the contract
Agree fee, due date, guarantee and exclusivity before the search starts.
What do executive search and recruitment agencies cost?
Recruiters usually charge 20 to 35% of the annual gross salary, due on hiring. Executive search firms often charge 25 to 35% for leadership and key positions, in instalments from the start of the mandate – even without a hire.
Checklist before the mandate
Clarify these questions with every provider before the search starts.
Fee model
Success fee, retainer or a mix – and what applies if the search is cancelled.
Exclusivity
Does only one provider work for you, or may several search in parallel?
Search method
Network, job ads or direct approach – and who pays for ads.
Guarantee
Replacement or refund if the new hire leaves during probation.
Discretion
Is your company name disclosed, and to whom?
One posting, several recruiters
On SilentHire you post your position once, anonymously. Vetted recruiters and headhunters propose candidates, each with their fee. You compare profiles and terms and release only the contact that fits.
The platform is free for companies. Costs only arise if you hire through a recruiter – at the fee they state up front.
Frequently asked questions: executive search or recruitment agency
What is the difference between executive search and a recruitment agency?
A recruitment agency introduces candidates and is usually paid only on success. An executive search firm takes over the whole search with market analysis and direct approach and often works for a fixed fee in instalments.
Is a headhunter an executive search firm?
Not necessarily. Headhunting describes the method of direct approach. Executive search firms use it, and so do many recruiters.
What is a retainer?
A fixed fee for the search, usually in instalments: part at the start of the mandate, further parts at milestones and on hiring. It is due even if no one is hired.
When is executive search worth it?
For rare leadership and key positions that should be filled confidentially and for which hardly anyone is actively looking.
Can I work with several recruiters at the same time?
Yes. With success-based placement that is common, as long as you don't agree on exclusivity. On SilentHire one posting reaches several vetted recruiters.
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026