Why Briefs Fail: The Missing Step in Most Senior Search Processes

The quality of your brief determines the quality of your hire.

When we talk to clients about their senior hire process, we often uncover one major theme: the brief is rushed, vague, or incomplete.

While it may seem like a minor detail, the reality is that a poorly written brief is the single biggest barrier to landing the right talent — and it's where many senior searches fall apart.

The Brief is Your Foundation — Don't Skip It

Think of the brief as the blueprint for your entire search process. If it’s unclear or doesn't capture the full scope of what you need — you’re already setting yourself up for failure. Without a strong, detailed brief, even the best recruiters can’t find the right candidate.

Too often, briefs lack depth:

• Ambiguous role expectations

• Vague cultural fit requirements

• Unclear leadership qualities

When this happens, everyone is left guessing. The result? The wrong candidate, or worse, no candidate at all.

The quality of your brief determines the quality of your hire.

What’s Missing in Most Briefs?

The missing step in many senior search briefs is clarity around your organisation’s specific goals. You need more than just a description of the role — you need to communicate how this hire fits into your bigger picture.

Is this executive hire there to stabilise? Innovate? Lead a cultural shift? A successful brief should tell us not just who the candidate should be but why they need to be that person. Without these key details, it’s impossible to identify the perfect candidate.

ARC’s Advisory Process: The Secret to Getting It Right

At ARC Partners, we take the time to dig deep with our clients before we even start sourcing candidates. We collaborate to develop a tailored brief that clarifies your needs, challenges, and expectations. Only then can we confidently begin the search.

We don’t rush. We don’t assume. We ensure that the brief isn’t just a formality — it’s the foundation of your success.

The Solution? Get the Brief Right from the Start

The most effective senior searches start with a clear, strategic brief. It’s about aligning on expectations upfront and committing to getting the details right from day one. At ARC, we guide you through this process to ensure the brief isn’t just a task to check off the list — it’s a critical step in hiring the right leader for your business.