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Posted by Suzanne Frey – VP, Product, Trust & Growth for Android & Play
Knowing that you’re building on a safe, secure ecosystem is essential for any app developer. We continuously invest in protecting Android and Google Play, so millions of users around the world can trust the apps they download and you can build thriving businesses. And we’re dedicated to continually improving our developer tools to make world–class security even easier to implement.
Together, we’ve made Google Play one of the safest and most secure platforms for developers and users. Our partnership over the past few years includes helping you:
Today, we’re excited to share more about how we’re making it easier than ever for developers to build safe apps, while also continuing to strengthen our ecosystem’s protection in 2025 and beyond.
Making it easier for you to build safer apps from the start
Google Play’s policies are a critical component of ensuring a safe experience for our shared users. Play Console pre-review checks are a great way to resolve certain policy and compatibility issues before you submit your app for review. We recently added the ability to check privacy policy links and login credential requirements, and we’re launching even more pre-review checks this year to help you avoid common policy pitfalls.
To help you avoid policy complications before you submit apps for review, we’ve been notifying you earlier about certain policies relevant to your apps – starting right as you code in Android Studio. We currently notify developers through Android Studio about a few key policy areas, but this year we’ll expand to a much wider range of policies.
Providing more policy support
Acting on your feedback, we’ve improved our policy experience to give you clearer updates, more time for substantial changes, more flexible requirements while still maintaining safety standards, and more helpful information with live Q&A’s. Soon, we’ll be trying a new way of communicating with you in Play Console so you get information when you need it most. This year, we’re investing in even more ways to get your feedback, help you understand our policies, navigate our Policy Center, and help to fix issues before app submission through new features in Console and Android Studio.
We’re also expanding our popular Google Play Developer Help Community, which saw 2.7 million visits last year from developers looking to find answers to policy questions, share knowledge, and connect with fellow developers. This year, we’re planning to expand the community to include more languages, such as Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, and Portuguese.
Protecting your business and users from scams and attacks
The Play Integrity API is an essential tool to help protect your business from abuse such as fraud, bots, cheating, and data theft. Developers are already using our new app access risk feature in Play Integrity API to make over 500M daily checks for potentially fraudulent or risky behavior. In fact, apps that use Play Integrity features to detect suspicious activity are seeing an 80% drop in unauthorized usage on average compared to other apps.
This year, we’ll continue to enhance the Play Integrity API with stronger protection for even more users. We recently improved the technology that powers the API on all devices running Android 13 (API level 33) and above, making it faster, more reliable, and more private for users. We also launched enhanced security signals to help you decide how much you trust the environment your app is running in, which we’ll automatically roll out to all developers who use the API in May. You can opt in now to start using the improved verdicts today.
We’ll be adding new features later this year to help you deal with emerging threats, such as the ability to re-identify abusive and risky devices in a way that also preserves user privacy. We’re also buildingmoretools to help you guide users to fix issues, like if they need a security update or they’re using a tampered version of your app.
Providing additional validation for your app
For apps in select categories, we offer badges that provide an extra layer of validation and connect users with safe, high-quality, and useful experiences. Building on the work of last year’s “Government” badge, which helps users identify official government apps, this year we introduced a “Verified” badge to help users discover VPN apps that take extra steps to demonstrate their commitment to security. We’ll continue to expand on this and add badges to more app categories in the future.
Partnering to keep kids safe
Whether your app is specifically designed for kids or simply attracts their attention, there is an added responsibility to ensure a safe and trusted experience. We want to partner with you to keep kids and teens safe online, and protect their privacy, and empower families. In addition to Google Play’s Teacher Approved program, Families policies, and tools like Restrict Declared Minors setting within the Google Play Console, we’re building tools like Credential Manager API, now in Beta for Digital IDs.
Strengthening the Android ecosystem
In addition to helping developers build stronger, safer apps on Google Play, we remain committed to protecting the broader Android ecosystem. Last year, our investments in stronger privacy policies, AI-powered threat detection and other security measures prevented 2.36 million policy-violating apps from being published on Google Play. By contrast, our most recent analysis found over 50 times more Android malware from Internet-sideloaded sources (like browsers and messaging apps) than on Google Play. This year we’re working on ways to make it even harder for malicious actors to hide or trick users into harmful installs, which will not only protect your business from fraud but also help users download your apps with confidence.
Meanwhile, Google Play Protect is always evolving to combat new threats and protect users from harmful apps that can lead to scams and fraud. As this is a core part of user safety, we’re doing more to keep users from being socially-engineered by scammers to turn this off. First, Google Play Protect live threat detection is expanding its protection to target malicious applications that try to impersonate financial apps. And our enhanced financial fraud protection pilot has continued to expand after a successful launch in select countries where we saw malware based financial fraud coming from Internet-sideloaded sources. We are planning to expand the pilot throughout this year to additional countries where we have seen higher levels of malware-based financial fraud.
We’re even working with other leaders across the industry to protect all users, no matter what device they use or where they download their apps. As a founding member of the App Defense Alliance, we’re working to establish and promote industry-wide security standards for mobile and web applications, as well as cloud configurations. Recently, the ADA launched Application Security Assessments (ASA) v1.0, which provides clear guidance to developers on protecting sensitive data and defending against cyber attacks to strengthen user trust.
What’s next
Please keep the feedback coming! We appreciate knowing what can make our developers’ experiences more efficient while ensuring we maintain the highest standards in app safety. Thank you for your continued partnership in making Android and Google Play a safe, thriving platform for everyone.
Finding the right HR headhunter can be crucial for the success of your organization. With numerous firms specializing in different aspects of HR recruitment, it is essential to identify the most reputable and effective ones. The right HR headhunter will help you find the perfect match for your company’s culture and strategic goals.
In this article, you’ll discover a curated list of the top 10 HR headhunters, each with proven expertise and a strong track record. Whether you need an expert in talent acquisition or someone to drive your company’s HR policies, this guide provides valuable insights to meet your specific needs.
1. Yeeply
We offer top-tier headhunting services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re searching for high-level HR executives or specialized talent, we can help. Our team uses proven strategies to identify the best candidates who align with your company’s culture and values.
Our expertise extends across various industries, making us a reliable choice for diverse recruitment needs. With a focus on Spain, we are recognized among the best headhunters in the country, providing effective solutions for finding the right talent.
They use both qualitative and quantitative tools to assess candidates. Their services include building impactful job descriptions and success profiles tailored to your organization’s unique needs.
Heidrick & Struggles is known for their high-touch support during the onboarding and development phases. This ensures a smooth transition for new hires. They are also recognized for their commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.
Korn Ferry is recognized as one of the top executive recruiting firms in the United States. In 2024, Forbes named them as America’s best executive recruiter. This accolade highlights their expertise and success in the field.
Korn Ferry’s human resources recruiters are known for helping companies attract, develop, and retain top talent. They aim to integrate HR strategies into broader business goals. Their approach ensures that HR becomes a vital part of your organizational strategy.
By partnering with Korn Ferry, you gain access to a network of professionals and industry insiders. Their reputation is built on consistent delivery of results and deep industry knowledge. You can learn more about their services and achievements here.
They excel in placing diverse candidates, with 60% of their placements over the past five years being diverse individuals. This firm regularly partners with multinational corporations, medium-sized businesses, and startups.
A significant portion of Spencer Stuart’s business comes from returning clients, demonstrating their strong reputation. They specialize in critical roles such as CHROs and chief learning officers.
Spencer Stuart combines deep industry knowledge with a proven assessment process, ensuring they find leaders who fit your organization’s unique needs. They cover top positions, including CEO, CFO, and other “CxO” roles, offering comprehensive finalist assessments.
5. Russell Reynolds Associates
Russell Reynolds Associates is a top player in the HR headhunting field. With over 50 years of experience, they have built a solid reputation.
Their services cover the recruitment of CEOs, CxOs, and board members. They are known for their global reach and extensive network of candidates.
Russell Reynolds Associates focuses on finding leaders who can transform organizations. They emphasize workforce agility, stellar leadership, and inclusive cultures.
If you seek quality and expertise in executive search, consider exploring Russell Reynolds Associates. Their track record speaks for itself with many successful placements across different industries.
6. Egon Zehnder
Egon Zehnder is known for its expertise in executive search and HR recruitment. The firm focuses on providing businesses with expert consultation for HR leadership roles.
Since its founding in 1964, Egon Zehnder has completed over 3,600 placements in the past five years alone. The company’s process is thorough and tailored to meet the specific needs of each client.
Their approach involves a deep understanding of your company and situation, ensuring a perfect match for your leadership needs.
7. Boyden
Boyden has been recognized as a top executive recruiter by Forbes. They specialize in recruiting for positions with salaries over $100,000. Their reputation is built on feedback from recruiters, HR managers, and employees.
Boyden goes beyond assessing professional skills to understand personal values and attitudes. This approach helps them find candidates who align well with the client organization.
They also provide management services and work closely with HR departments to ensure exceptional leadership. Industry experts constantly praise Boyden for their ability to deliver top talent.
Odgers Berndtson excels in filling executive roles with top-tier talent. They cater to various sectors, offering expertise in Human Resources and People & Culture.
Their Minneapolis office is located at 333 South 7th Street, Suite 2950. For inquiries, you can contact them at +1 212 972 7287. Odgers Berndtson also invites CV submissions for those interested in new opportunities.
9. Proco Global
Proco Global is an international executive search firm, established in 2008. With offices in cities like London, New York, and Hong Kong, they specialize in finding top-tier talent for leadership roles.
Their team focuses on various sectors, including Human Resources, business services, and commodities. They aim to match your organization with the best candidates to elevate your team’s performance.
Their unified brand combines the strengths of Proco Global and Proco Commodities. This merger in 2016 has enhanced their services, making them a reliable partner for global talent acquisition. If you need top professionals for your team, Proco Global offers tailored recruitment solutions to meet your needs. For more information, visit Proco Global.
10. True Search
True Search is a rapidly growing firm in the world of HR headhunting. With a strong focus on top-tier executive roles, they have established a reputation for success.
They excel in finding HR leaders who can align organizational goals with human resource strategies. Their approach ensures that the right talent is placed in the right roles.
This firm has shown impressive growth, topping $100 million in recent years. It has become a trusted partner for many organizations looking to fill key HR positions. True Search is known for its dedication to matching the right candidates to the right companies. To learn more, visit True Search.
Importance and Role of HR Headhunters
HR headhunters play a crucial role in connecting qualified candidates with companies. They possess deep market insights and extensive networks, which are invaluable for finding the right talent.
Why Companies Utilize HR Headhunters
Companies often turn to HR headhunters to save time and access a broader talent pool. Headhunters have specialized skills to identify top candidates quickly.
Many companies find it beneficial to work with headhunters because they have access to passive candidates—those who aren’t actively looking for jobs but might be open to new opportunities. This increases the chances of finding highly skilled individuals who are the perfect fit.
Additionally, HR headhunters bring a wealth of industry knowledge. They understand market trends, salary benchmarks, and the skills needed for specific roles. This expertise helps companies make better decisions when hiring.
Key Responsibilities and Skills
HR headhunters have several key responsibilities. They search for potential candidates, screen them, and present the best options to their clients.
One of their main tasks is networking. Building and maintaining relationships with professionals in various industries is essential. They also need strong interviewing skills to assess candidates’ qualifications accurately.
It’s important for HR headhunters to stay updated on market trends. They should know what skills are in demand and what companies are looking for. This knowledge allows them to provide valuable advice to both clients and candidates.
Effective communication is another crucial skill. HR headhunters must clearly convey job expectations and negotiate terms between companies and candidates.
Choosing the Right HR Headhunter
Selecting the right HR headhunter can significantly impact your company’s hiring success. Focus on key criteria and ask the right questions to ensure a good match.
Criteria to Consider
Experience: Look for headhunters with extensive experience in your industry. They should understand the specific needs and challenges you face.
Reputation: Research the headhunter’s track record. Client testimonials and case studies are valuable indicators.
Methodology: Understand their recruitment process. A good headhunter will have a clear, transparent method for finding and vetting candidates.
Cultural Fit: Ensure they understand your company culture. They should be able to find candidates who not only meet your skill requirements but also fit well within your team dynamics.
Network: A well-connected headhunter has access to a broader talent pool. Connections in your industry can make a big difference in finding top talent.
Questions to Ask Potential Headhunters
Experience Questions:
How long have you been recruiting in this industry?
Can you provide examples of successful placements?
Methodology Questions:
What is your process for identifying candidates?
How do you vet potential hires?
Culture Fit Questions:
How do you assess if a candidate fits into our company culture?
Do you involve clients in the interview process?
Network Questions:
Can you describe the extent of your network within our industry?
What strategies do you use to reach passive candidates who are not actively job hunting?
Asking these questions will help you gauge their capabilities and ensure you choose a headhunter that aligns with your goals.
Current Trends in HR Headhunting
In the ever-evolving field of HR headhunting, technology and AI play pivotal roles in streamlining talent acquisition. Candidate expectations have also shifted, emphasizing the importance of a personalized and transparent recruitment process.
Use of Technology and AI
Technology and AI have revolutionized HR headhunting. Tools like AI-driven analytics and machine learning algorithms help identify the best candidates more efficiently. These systems analyze vast amounts of data, from resumes to social media profiles, to highlight top prospects.
HR departments now use chatbots for initial candidate interactions. This speeds up the process and ensures consistent communication. Predictive analytics are also key, allowing headhunters to forecast future hiring needs and trends.
Virtual reality (VR) interviews and online assessment platforms offer candidates a seamless application experience. These innovations significantly reduce the time required to fill positions and improve the accuracy of the selection process.
Evolving Candidate Expectations
Modern candidates expect more from the recruitment process. They want transparency, regular updates, and a personalized experience. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all.
Tailored benefits and work-life balance options are highly valued. Candidates often prefer companies offering remote work or hybrid models. As the workforce becomes more diverse, inclusivity and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are critical factors in decision-making.
Headhunters must adapt by crafting more engaging job descriptions and offering flexible interview schedules. Moreover, building a strong employer brand online is essential. Candidates research potential employers thoroughly, and a positive digital presence can make or break their interest in a role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right HR headhunter involves understanding their expertise and recognizing specific characteristics that make them effective. Key points include identifying top executive search firms and understanding their distinctions.
What are the top ranked executive search firms specializing in HR?
How do executive recruiters differ in services for job seekers and companies?
Recruiters work directly for employers, often as part of an internal HR team. Headhunters typically operate independently or within third-party agencies, focusing on top talent for multiple clients. For job seekers, recruiters can streamline the hiring process. For companies, they provide access to a broader talent pool.
What factors determine the best HR headhunting firm for a company’s needs?
Key considerations include industry expertise, network size, and success rate in filling senior roles. It’s crucial to assess their understanding of your company’s culture and strategic goals. Evaluate their consultation approach and read client reviews to ensure alignment with your needs.
Can you list some globally recognized names in the HR executive search industry?
What accolades or rankings should I look for when choosing an HR headhunter?
Look for firms accredited by industry associations, such as the Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants (AESC). Rankings like Forbes’ list of top executive search firms can provide guidance. Client testimonials and case studies are also valuable indicators of a firm’s credibility.
What are the qualities of the most effective human resources headhunters?
Effective headhunters possess strong industry knowledge, excellent communication skills, and a vast network of contacts. They demonstrate a deep understanding of both client needs and candidate capabilities. Look for firms showcasing transparency, reliability, and a proven track record in successful placements.
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Choosing the right headhunting firm can be a game-changer for your career or company. With so many options available, it’s crucial to know which firms excel in placing top talent in high-level positions. We highlight the top 15 headhunting firms that have proven track records and specialize in various industries.
These firms are known for their ability to connect employers with the best candidates, making the hiring process more efficient and effective. By understanding what each firm offers, you can make informed decisions that align with your career goals or business needs.
1. Yeeply
We focus on helping you hire the best digital and remote tech talent. Our headhunting firm streamlines the process, making it agile and competitive. We target high-level experts who may not be seeking new roles, ensuring we find the best fit for your company.
We also have vast experience in the industry, offering flexible hiring solutions for urgent or hard-to-fill positions. You can find more details on how we operate by hiring the world’s top experts.
2. Korn Ferry
Korn Ferry is one of the leading headhunting firms in the world. As an innovator in executive search since 1969, they have a strong track record for finding top-tier talent. They have a wide network of professionals across various industries.
Their services include executive search, talent acquisition, and leadership consulting. They help clients create effective human capital strategies. Korn Ferry has a presence in numerous global locations, ensuring a wide reach.
They are especially known for their extensive market knowledge and tailored solutions. Korn Ferry continues to grow, thanks to multiple acquisitions. This makes them a top choice for companies looking for high-level executive talent. Learn more about their services and achievements by visiting Korn Ferry.
3. Egon Zehnder
Egon Zehnder is a leading headhunting firm founded in 1964 by Egon P.S. Zehnder. The firm has grown to have 68 offices in 40 countries.
This company specializes in executive search and leadership advisory. It focuses on understanding your specific business needs to find the right leaders.
Their Financial Services Practice is the largest in the industry. With over 600 consultants globally, Egon Zehnder provides impactful advice and builds long-term relationships.
For executive search, they help you benchmark and develop potential candidates to meet your objectives. Their customized approach ensures that each engagement aligns with your goals.
4. Spencer Stuart
Spencer Stuart is a top choice for executive search and leadership consulting. The firm has a strong reputation for helping companies find senior leaders, including CEOs and board directors.
With over 70 offices in more than 30 countries, Spencer Stuart has a global presence. They serve a wide range of clients from multinational corporations to startups.
The firm is known for its deep relationships with executives and its industry-specific expertise. Spencer Stuart’s capabilities in executive search make it a leader in the field.
5. Russell Reynolds Associates
Russell Reynolds Associates is a prominent name in the executive search industry. Founded in 1969, the firm boasts a global presence with 46 offices in 26 countries.
You can rely on Russell Reynolds Associates for expert guidance in finding, recruiting, and developing top-tier leaders. Their consultants offer tailored advice to ensure smooth transitions for new executives.
The firm serves a diverse range of industries, including Technology, Financial Services, Industrial/Natural Resources, Consumer, and Healthcare. Check out more about their executive search services and how they assist in leadership development.
6. Heidrick & Struggles
Heidrick & Struggles is a pioneer in the executive recruiting industry. Founded in 1953, the firm has built a reputation for identifying transformational leaders.
Its consultants specialize in executive searches, leadership consulting, and culture shaping. You can learn more about their services on their website.
The firm is also known for its insights into how AI is reshaping business models. They focus on finding talent that can implement and govern AI effectively. More information is available here.
In 2024, Heidrick & Struggles ranked #4 among the top executive search firms. Discover more about this ranking here.
7. Boyden
Boyden is a global talent and leadership advisory firm with a strong reputation in executive search. Based in New York, Boyden has been recognized multiple times by Forbes as one of America’s Best Executive Recruiting Firms.
Forbes ranked Boyden highly in its 2024 list of top executive search firms, highlighting its commitment to collaborative teamwork and market insight, as noted in Boyden’s ranking by Forbes.
Boyden has repeatedly secured top positions in such lists for several years. Its consistent performance makes it a reliable choice for top-level recruitment.
8. N2Growth
N2Growth ranks among the top executive search firms globally. It specializes in human and organizational performance.
N2Growth consistently appears on Forbes’ list of Best Executive Recruiting Firms. In 2024, it secured the 16th position for the eighth consecutive year.
You can find more details about its achievements here. The firm also made it to the top 25 of America’s Best Professional Recruiting Firms.
9. Odgers Berndtson
Odgers Berndtson is a well-known executive search firm with a global presence. They focus on finding top-tier talent for leadership roles across various industries.
With a rigorous approach to search and recruitment, they ensure that organizations get the best leaders. Their process involves a mix of analysis, creativity, and experienced judgment.
If you are looking to fill critical leadership positions, Odgers Berndtson can be a valuable partner. You can learn more about their services and opportunities on their official website.
10. Isaacson, Miller
Isaacson, Miller is a distinguished executive search firm with over 40 years of experience. They specialize in mission-driven sectors and have built a reputation for creating highly qualified and diverse teams.
Isaacson, Miller starts every search by deeply understanding their clients’ culture, goals, and values. Their process includes thorough listening sessions to define measures of success.
To learn more about their services and values, visit Isaacson, Miller.
11. Diversified Search
Diversified Search, founded in 1974, specializes in executive searches across various sectors. It is recognized as one of the top 10 executive search firms in the U.S. For six consecutive years, it has been featured on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Executive Recruiting Firms.
The firm’s innovative business model emphasizes diversity and inclusion. Recently, Felicia McGinty was appointed as Managing Director in the Education Practice. Headquartered in Philadelphia, the firm is the largest woman-founded and woman-led executive search firm in the country.
Diversified Search provides services to clients nationwide and has developed a reputation for impactful and effective executive placements.
12. True Search
True Search is a global recruitment firm specializing in executive and board-level placements. They work with companies seeking transformative growth.
True Search is known for real-time recruiting progress, fostering collaborative experiences. Their inclusive platform ensures accessible, efficient, and equitable executive searches.
With a strong presence on LinkedIn, True Search has a vast network of followers, reinforcing their influential status in the industry.
13. Egon Zehnder International
Egon Zehnder International is a renowned name in executive search, with its inception dating back to 1964. The firm operates across 65 offices in 36 countries, underscoring its global reach and expertise.
You benefit from their deep industry experience and personalized approach. Egon Zehnder focuses on understanding your unique business needs, ensuring they find the best leadership fits.
They are recognized among the top executive search firms globally, often securing high rankings in industry lists. Their commitment to building long-term relationships and creating lasting value sets them apart in the competitive landscape of headhunting.
14. Caldwell Partners
You will find that Caldwell Partners stands out in executive search. They have more than 45 years of experience, making them a trusted advisor in the field.
Their services cover board directors, chief executives, and senior executives. They also focus on creating inclusive workplaces and retaining transformational talent.
Caldwell has offices in major cities, including San Francisco, enhancing their reach and capabilities.
15. Lucas Group
Lucas Group, a Korn Ferry company, has been a leader in executive recruiting since 1970. They specialize in helping businesses find top talent across various industries and functions.
In November 2021, Lucas Group was acquired by Korn Ferry. This acquisition has strengthened Lucas Group’s capabilities, aligning them with Korn Ferry’s global resources and expertise.
Lucas Group is now part of Korn Ferry’s Professional Search practice. They work with thousands of companies and talented professionals, ensuring clear executive search and hiring goals are met.
With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Lucas Group is dedicated to providing quality services for businesses, individuals, and government agencies. For more information, visit their LinkedIn page.
Understanding Headhunting Firms
Headhunting firms, also known as executive search firms, specialize in finding and recruiting top-tier talent for executive and senior-level positions. These firms operate with precision, considering specific industry needs and organizational culture.
What Are Headhunting Firms?
Headhunting firms focus on sourcing and placing high-level executives and specialists within organizations. Unlike standard recruitment agencies that fill a wide range of positions, headhunters target candidates who are not actively seeking new jobs but possess in-demand skills and experience. These firms work closely with companies to understand their hiring needs and identify potential candidates who fit the profile. Key roles they often fill include CEO, CFO, and other executive positions.
Headhunting firms leverage their extensive networks and databases to find suitable candidates. Their efforts are aimed at matching a candidate’s qualifications with the strategic goals of the hiring company, ensuring a perfect fit. By specializing in specific industries, they provide deep insights and access to a pool of talent not easily reachable through conventional recruitment methods.
How Headhunting Firms Operate
Headhunting firms operate through a systematic approach involving several stages. First, they conduct a detailed analysis of the hiring company’s needs and the role requirements. They then use their networks, databases, and industry knowledge to identify potential candidates. The selection process includes rigorous screenings, interviews, and background checks to ensure candidates meet the company’s expectations.
Firms usually charge a fee based on the candidate’s first-year salary, which can be a significant investment but is often justified by the quality of hire. They also provide support during the negotiation and onboarding process, helping to ensure a smooth transition for the new executive. Additionally, these firms maintain confidentiality throughout the process, protecting both the candidate’s and the company’s interests. This meticulous approach helps in securing high-caliber talent that aligns with organizational goals.
Benefits of Using Headhunting Firms
Using headhunting firms can give you access to top talent, save time and money, and provide industry-specific knowledge. These advantages make headhunting firms a valuable resource for businesses.
Access to Top Talent
Headhunting firms specialize in finding the best candidates for high-level positions. They have extensive networks and use advanced search techniques to identify top professionals who may not be actively seeking new jobs. This means you get access to a pool of highly qualified candidates who are often not reachable through traditional job postings.
These firms also conduct in-depth assessments to ensure a good fit for your company culture and role requirements. This thorough vetting process helps in hiring individuals who can make a significant impact on your business.
Time and Cost Efficiency
Hiring new employees can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Headhunting firms streamline this by managing the entire recruitment process for you. This includes sourcing candidates, conducting interviews, and negotiating offers.
Using a headhunting firm allows your internal team to focus on other important tasks, thereby increasing productivity. The precision approach of headhunting firms ensures that you get quality over quantity, saving you from the hassle of sifting through numerous unqualified applications.
Industry Expertise
Headhunting firms often specialize in specific industries, giving them deep knowledge of the job market and trends in those sectors. This expertise helps them find candidates with the skills and experience that are most relevant to your industry.
They can offer valuable insights into competitive salaries, job market conditions, and skill requirements. This specialized knowledge can be incredibly beneficial in making informed hiring decisions that align with your company’s strategic goals.
Choosing the Right Headhunting Firm
Selecting the best headhunting firm is vital for finding top talent. It’s key to evaluate the firm’s experience and understand their specializations to ensure they align with your needs.
Evaluating Firm Experience
Experience is critical when choosing a headhunting firm. Experienced firms have developed extensive networks and have a proven track record. Look for firms that have been in the industry for several years and have successfully placed candidates in roles similar to what you need.
Client testimonials and case studies can offer valuable insights into a firm’s performance. Reviews from other companies can help you gauge client satisfaction. Reputable firms often highlight successful placements and partnerships on their websites.
Industry-specific expertise is another factor. Firms that have experience in your industry will understand the unique challenges and requirements, making the recruitment process smoother and more effective.
Understanding Firm Specializations
Specializations are crucial. Some firms focus on executive roles, like C-level and management positions, while others may cater to different sectors or job functions. Matching a firm’s specialization with your hiring needs ensures a better fit and more efficient process.
Diversity and inclusion initiatives can be an important consideration. Firms that prioritize these aspects tend to offer a broader and more diverse range of candidates. For example, Nelson is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Geographic reach is also essential. Firms with a wide reach can source candidates from a larger pool, which might be beneficial if you’re looking to hire in multiple locations. This is particularly important for roles that can be filled remotely or require relocation.
By assessing these factors, you can make a more informed decision and choose a headhunting firm that will meet your specific needs effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section covers key questions about leading executive search firms, including their unique traits, current trends, and recognized leaders in the industry.
Who are the top executive search firms globally?
Some of the top executive search firms globally include Korn Ferry, Egon Zehnder, and Spencer Stuart. These firms are known for their extensive networks and successful track records in placing high-level executives.
What are the characteristics of prestigious executive search firms?
Prestigious executive search firms prioritize diversity and inclusion, have deep industry knowledge, and maintain strong relationships with top-tier candidates. Firms like Nelson and Russell Reynolds Associates exemplify these traits by delivering high-quality placements and excellent client service.
Which company is considered the largest headhunter globally?
Korn Ferry is widely considered the largest headhunter globally. They offer extensive services across a wide range of industries and are known for their comprehensive approach to talent acquisition and leadership development.
How do the top headhunting firms differentiate themselves?
Top headhunting firms set themselves apart by specializing in various sectors, providing personalized services, and maintaining a focus on client and candidate satisfaction. For example, Stanton Chase International is known for its expertise in diverse global regions and industries.
What trends are currently impacting the executive search industry?
Current trends in the executive search industry include a greater emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, technology-driven recruitment processes, and the importance of soft skills in executive roles. Firms also focus more on passive candidates, leveraging social media and data analytics to identify top talent.
Which firms are recognized in the Forbes Best Recruiting Firms list for 2024?
Firms such as Spencer Stuart and Russell Reynolds Associates are often recognized in the Forbes Best Recruiting Firms list for their exceptional performance in the industry. These firms have consistently demonstrated strong client relationships, successful placements, and industry leadership.
Pixel 9 phones in the US currently require manually activating Call Notes on every call to record, transcribe, and summarize them.
Google has been spotted testing automatic call recording within the Call Notes feature, indicating that automatic call recording could finally make its way to the US.
However, Google has previously stated that automatic activation wasn’t meant for public release and was limited to internal testing only. So the fate of the feature remains in the air.
The Google Phone app, which is preloaded on several Android flagships, offers call recording in several regions globally, but not in the US (even though you can legally record calls in most states after adequate consent). Instead, users in the US have to use the Pixel 9’s Call Notes feature to record a phone call. However, Call Notes is only available per call, requiring users to consciously activate it whenever they want to record, transcribe, or summarize a phone call. Now, Google has been spotted working on automatic call recording within the Call Notes feature that would make life a lot easier, but we aren’t sure if the company ever plans to release it.
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An APK teardown helps predict features that may arrive on a service in the future based on work-in-progress code. However, it is possible that such predicted features may not make it to a public release.
Currently, on Pixel 9 series devices in the US, you can activate the Call Notes feature during a call to start recording it and receive an AI-generated summary and even the call transcript.
However, this action is deliberate and manual, as you have to activate the feature by tapping the Call Notes button during every call you want to record. Needless to say, it’s pretty cumbersome if you want to use the feature on many calls.
But what if you could generate call notes automatically? Google was spotted deliberating on the idea in August 2024, with settings to automatically start Call Notes for various phone calls.
However, in a statement to Android Police back then, a Google spokesperson mentioned that the code related to automatic activation wasn’t meant for public release and was limited to internal testing only. Consequently, automatic Call Notes did not roll out to Pixel 9 users in the US at the time.
Curiously, these options still exist within the Phone by Google app. With Phone v172.0 beta, Google has now tweaked the automatic Call Notes option to Automatic Call Recording, switching from an automatic summary to automatic recording. The options are also now limited to these two:
Automatically record unknown numbers
Automatically record these numbers
We managed to activate the settings page for the feature, and here’s what it looks like right now:
The above-mentioned new options are similar to the Call Recording settings, which users in several countries already have.
However, the US doesn’t have the Call Recording feature in the Phone by Google app, so this is one roundabout way of bringing that functionality to the region. The revised settings also don’t mean Call Notes will automatically summarize or transcribe the recordings. But, presuming you have the recordings stored for later use, you can always select to do so later on calls that you need summaries and transcriptions for, so it won’t be all that inconvenient.
It remains to be seen whether Google finally allows US users to automatically record calls and work its Call Notes magic. For now, users in the US must stick to the manual and cumbersome method of individually beginning Call Notes for every call they need to record, transcribe, and summarize. Given its utility and the progress the company has already made on the feature, we hope it will be released soon.
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The Google I/O agenda is live. We’re excited to share Google’s biggest announcements across AI, Android, Web, and Cloud May 20-21. Tune in to learn how we’re making development easier so you can build faster.
We’ll kick things off with the Google Keynote at 10:00 AM PT on May 20th, followed by the Developer Keynote at 1:30 PM PT. This year, we’re livestreaming two days of sessions directly from Mountain View, bringing more of the I/O experience to you, wherever you are.
Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll cover:
AI advancements: Learn how Gemini models enable you to build new applications and unlock new levels of productivity. Explore the flexibility offered by options like our Gemma open models and on-device capabilities.
Build excellent apps, across devices with Android: Crafting exceptional app experiences across devices is now even easier with Android. Dive into sessions focused on building intelligent apps with
Google AI and boosting your productivity, alongside creating adaptive user experiences and leveraging the power of Google Play.
Powerful web, made easier: Exciting new features continue to accelerate web development, helping you to build richer, more reliable web experiences. We’ll share the latest innovations in web UI, Baseline progress, new multimodal built-in AI APIs using Gemini Nano, and how AI in DevTools streamline building innovative web experiences.
Plan your I/O
Join us online for livestreams May 20-21, followed by on-demand sessions and codelabs on May 22. Register today and explore the full program for sessions like these:
We’re excited to share what’s next and see what you build!
Boeing announced on Tuesday that it would sell a handful of navigation, flight planning and other businesses for more than $10.5 billion as the company works to refocus on manufacturing planes and other aircraft.
The company, which also wants to reduce its large debt, said it would sell four businesses from a digital unit to Thoma Bravo, a private equity firm specializing in software. Those include Jeppesen, which provides navigational charts and information to pilots, and ForeFlight, an app that helps plan flights and monitor weather.
“This transaction is an important component of our strategy to focus on core businesses, supplement the balance sheet and prioritize the investment-grade credit rating,” Kelly Ortberg, Boeing’s chief executive, said in a statement.
The company said it expected to close the all-cash deal by the end of the year. The digital unit that houses those businesses employs about 3,900 people, though some of the unit will remain at Boeing. The company employed about 172,000 people as of the start of the year.
Mr. Ortberg, who joined the company last summer, made streamlining Boeing’s operations a strategic goal as he tries to address concerns about the quality of the company’s planes that were raised after a panel blew off a 737 Max plane during a January 2024 flight near Portland, Ore.
No one was seriously injured in that incident, but it renewed worries about Boeing’s planes several years after two fatal crashes of the 737 Max in 2018 and 2019. Safety and quality issues have stymied Boeing’s commercial plane production in recent years. Then last fall, production of the 737 Max, Boeing’s most popular commercial plane, came to a near standstill during a two-month worker strike.
In January, Mr. Ortberg said the company had resumed production of the Max, and was making more than 20 of those planes per month as well as five of the larger 787 Dreamliners.
That is well below the goal the company had set before last year’s panel incident of delivering 50 of its 737s and 10 of its 787s per month. Boeing has about 5,500 outstanding commercial plane orders, valued at hundreds of billions of dollars.
This is the fourth consecutive time the VoC vendor has been included in the Magic Quadrant
LOUISVILLE, COLO., April 22, 2025 — Alchemer, a global leader in customer experience and feedback technology, today announced that it has been positioned by Gartner® in the Challengers quadrant of the Magic Quadrant for Voice of the Customer Platforms.1
“In our opinion, Alchemer’s position in the Challenger quadrant by Gartner reflects our dedication to empowering our customers to do more with feedback whether that’s a one-time survey, in-app feedback, or a robust CX program,” said Marty Mrugal, CEO of Alchemer. “We believe inclusion in the fourth consecutive report reflects our commitment to ongoing innovation and customer-centric product development, which has included a focus on omnichannel collection, integrations with more than 400 business system, and investments in AI.”
The evaluation was based on specific criteria that analyzed the company’s overall completeness of vision and ability to execute. Per the report, “Organizations use VoC platforms to manage the customer experience through a deep understanding of customer needs and perceptions. This research helps identify vendors whose VoC platforms are best equipped to help them achieve their CX and business objectives.”
A complimentary copy of the Magic Quadrant for Voice of the Customer Platforms, which includes the Gartner analysis of the VoC and customer experience landscape as well as Alchemer’s strengths and cautions, is available on Alchemer’s website: https://www.alchemer.com/l/gartner-magic-quadrant-2025/.
Magic Quadrant™ reports are a culmination of rigorous, fact-based research in specific markets, providing a wide-angle view of the relative positions of the providers in markets where growth is high and provider differentiation is distinct. Providers are positioned into four quadrants: Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries, and Niche Players. The research enables you to get the most from market analysis in alignment with your unique business and technology needs.
[1] Gartner, “Magic Quadrant for Voice of the Customer Platforms,” Deborah Alvord, Maria Marino, 16 April 2025.
Gartner Disclaimer:
GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and MAGIC QUADRANT is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved.
Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product, or service depicted in our research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
It’s all about nature and is both simplistic and beautiful.
Each puzzle is made from stunning wildlife illustrations from the 18th and 19th century by artists like John James Audubon and John Gould. Along with the picture, there is a detailed description about the animal.
There are two ways to put together each puzzle, the image or text for even a bigger challenge.
And for Earth Day, the puzzler has just gotten a great new update. There is a new puzzle pack—Echoes of Extinction. The pack features animals like the passenger pigeon, quagga, and dodo. All 10 of the animals were alive when their illustrations were made, but have since gone extinct.
The update also brings new app icons.
The Art of Fauna is for the iPhone and all iPad models. You can download the free app now and play the first 10 puzzles. Unlock more than 100 puzzles in the game for an in-app purchase of $7.99.
Optionally, you can also unlock each of the five biomes for a separate $2.99 in-app purchase.
A portion of every purchase will be given back to support elected wildlife conservation organizations.
