Alan Herrity | January 13, 2026
Why detailed assessment and candidate preparation is key to success
Every so often, a comment from a candidate makes you pause.
Recently, a Transformation Executive said something which made me proud.
“I’ve worked with a lot of search firms. You’re the most thorough person who’s ever represented me.”
A moment later, they added:
“I’ve never been prepared for an interview in the way you prepare your candidates.”
It’s always good to receive this kind of feedback, but it also reinforces something I’ve believed throughout my career: preparation isn’t a nice-to-have in Executive Search. It is fundamental to producing strong outcomes for both clients and candidates.
What “thorough” really means
At Momentum Search, our work is built on a simple premise:
A successful search depends on the clarity of the brief, the rigour of the assessment, and the level of preparation given to every candidate we put forward.
To do that well, we focus on two types of competency.
Functional competencies
These are the capabilities required to do the job – the technical skills, experience and executional ability. Years of service or industry background can provide useful context, but they’re not competencies. We look for evidence of what someone has actually delivered.
Behavioural competencies
This is how a leader operates: their judgement, resilience, communication style, and ability to lead through ambiguity. In many cases, these behaviours determine whether someone, will not only succeed in a role, but positively shape the organisation.
How we assess candidates
We test both competency sets at three points in the process:
- An initial call to understand the individual and set expectations.
- A structured, evidence-led interview - virtual or in person.
- Comprehensive preparation before any client meeting.
At each stage, we’re looking for alignment to the brief, not a polished performance.
Candidates deserve support - but they must also be challenged. Getting that balance right is part of the craft.
A straightforward philosophy
Our approach doesn’t need to be complex.
- We find the strongest talent available.
- We test and prepare them properly.
- We help them perform at their best for our clients
- We build long-term partnerships on the back of consistent delivery.
When clients and candidates allow us to be thorough, the search process becomes clearer, faster, and more reliable. Everyone benefits from a higher standard.
Preparation isn’t our differentiator.
It’s the foundation of everything we do.
Please contact Alan Herrity to explore this topic further.
