Attracting Diverse Executive Talent: Best Practice Framework

Whether the assignment is focused on identifying top talent for Boards or Executive positions, the following is a brief “best practice” framework to ensure success. Of course, the most important first step is selecting the right consulting firm to ensure success. By selecting an AESC member, clients know they have selected a firm that is committed to the highest level of professional standards in the industry.

Succession planning

Partner with their clients to identify the balance of experience and skills needed.

Diversity goals

Understand the clients’ aspirational goals on gender balance and diversity more broadly.

Candidate support

Provide appropriate support, especially to first-time candidates, to guide them through the process.

Long lists

Present a diverse long list of highly-qualified candidates, selected with rigor and aligned with clients’ diversity goals. Demonstrate creativity and fresh thinking when considering candidates.

Defining briefs

Identify relevant skills, competencies and personal capabilities, not just proven career experience, in order to expand the talent pool and provide the broadest range of qualified candidates.

Supporting candidate selection

Advise clients on how to run an interview process that is rigorous, professional, and avoids unconscious bias.

Induction

Provide best practices in induction and onboarding processes to help new executives or board members settle quickly into their roles.

Sharing Best Practices

Ensure that best practices in supporting gender balance and diversity more broadly are well-documented and shared internally.