Make them part of your team.

Some companies hire a search firm and never hear from them again until the candidates are ready to be interviewed. This is another huge mistake. Insist that your search consultants become part of your team. Make sure they meet all significant players, including those who will be peers and subordinates of the new hire as well as the hiring manager and human resource professionals. Give them free access to information and facilities so they can get an accurate picture of your company's atmosphere and culture. As they'll be representing you in the marketplace, they need to be totally immersed in your company.

By fostering a team approach you'll assure communication will be open and cooperative throughout the process. Not all searches travel perfect linear paths. There will be times when regrouping and revising certain aspects of the search will be required. By fostering a team spirit early on, you will not need to redirect and refocus later on.