Change is constant, but one truth has remained unwavering for us over nearly two decades: relationships are the most important aspect of our work.
Understanding our clients’ needs beyond what is stated in a job description is essential. By being tapped into their culture, history, and leadership, we’re able to connect on a deeper level. This familiarity enables us to vibrate at the same frequency with our clients during the search process and attract talent that aligns with their energy and values.
That understanding didn’t come easy – it was forged in fire from day one.
The Beginning: Terrible Timing, No Regrets
We started Spire Search Partners in late 2007, despite advice from several well-connected individuals suggesting that it was not a good time to take such a risk. Having experienced downturns before, we were determined to take the leap, so we did it anyway.
By early to mid-2008, the markets were an absolute fiasco. Yet, we became very adept at what we were doing because we had no choice; we survived many months in a stagnant market. It wouldn’t be the last time we questioned our decision to start the business! When the market rebounded dramatically a year later, it also wouldn’t be the last time we thought about how great to be in this business.
What Drives Us
Through the ups and downs, change has remained our only constant. Some companies continue to embody the spirit of being “Far Beyond Driven” (to borrow a phrase from the band Pantera) in their quest for success. While everyone’s capital is green, the true differentiator lies in the individuals who create the vision and execute the strategy, steering the organization forward.
These are the companies we always resonate with and have the pleasure of collaborating with. The best talent doesn’t simply arrive at your doorstep seeking a job; often, it exists outside your immediate network and frame of reference.
The Science and the Art
Finding that best talent requires both precision and intuition. Talent assessment has become more of a science than ever before. What different psychometric tests can tell us about ourselves and others is amazing and important. Understanding how a person’s personality fits within a team can help mitigate risks in hiring. However, with 20 years under our belt recruiting for top companies globally, we know that there is still an art to the process.
While technology has often threatened to render search professionals obsolete, it has consistently created opportunities to improve our skills, elevate our services, and discover new ways to support our clients. AI is currently driving this evolution once again.
We’ll see what the outcome is this time, but thus far, it continues to concentrate more responsibility and expectations in the hands of fewer individuals. This select smaller group has many options and is not easily swayed.
What We’ve Learned
Information, much like any trading desk, serves as a form of currency. Share it, receive it, think critically about it, and draw connections. In search, this means we’re constantly gathering market intelligence, understanding who’s moving where and why, and connecting dots that others miss. Recognize that there is much you don’t know. Strive to understand and anticipate clients’ needs as the world evolves, allowing us to see the bigger picture.
We are nothing without the companies and individuals who have placed their trust in us and partnered with us to achieve their goals. It is a beautiful symbiosis, and for that, we are truly grateful.
Here’s to 18 years – and to the relationships, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead.