The Retained Search Show

From members who've doubled their revenue after transitioning from contingent to retained work, to recruiters who've fallen back in love with their profession, the transformations are nothing short of remarkable.

One of our members went from struggling to bill £140K in contingent work to effortlessly generating £300K through retained search—while working fewer hours and with greater satisfaction.

Another has completely converted their most skeptical clients who had "sworn never to go retained again" until experiencing the methodology's undeniable value.

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our recent Los Angeles in-person event, where behavioral scientist Jess Biller delivered a session on DISC profiling. Understanding whether your client is a high D (direct), high I (interpersonal), high S (supportive), or high C (analytical) transforms how you communicate with them. As Jess wisely noted, "We can't change the way our communication is received. We can only change the way we give it."

We also explore the business development approaches working right now for our most successful members. The common thread? It's about adding value first and offering genuine support rather than pushing for immediate sales.

The most innovative members are creating sustainable processes that turn every client engagement into valuable market intelligence that fuels their content creation and attracts new business.

Perhaps most encouraging is the realization that while the results are impressive, the methods themselves are remarkably straightforward. As Jordan puts it, looking at what top performers are doing: "It's all doable. You go, 'Oh, okay, yeah, I can do that.'"

Ready to transform your recruitment business? We're bringing our in-person masterclasses to Sydney in September, and we're hosting a special session for those in Japan on the 22nd of April: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QXep7wUsQpWyugbkvozY5A

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

All the way from New York and New Jersey, Sean and Tom from The Locke Group joined us to share their journey—from feeling stuck in the contingent grind to becoming valued partners in retained search.

The contingent model held them back from offering the consultative partnerships their clients truly needed. Shifting to retained search changed everything—not just for their business, but for their team.

“The whole staff is just much happier being valued by our clients,” Tom shares. And as Sean puts it: “It’s night and day compared to contingent recruitment.”

We also dive into the practical side—how to:
🎙️ Evaluate opportunities more critically
🎙️ Build the confidence to turn down contingent work
🎙️ Structure retained engagements that actually work

Their advice? “Don’t settle. Value yourself. Demand to work at the level you deserve.”

If you’ve ever felt undervalued or stuck in the contingent cycle, this conversation is for you.

Curious about making the shift to retained? Check out our Search Foundations program to consistently win and deliver retained search projects.

If you have any questions, connect with Sean Locke & Thomas Hudson on LinkedIn.

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

In this episode, we’re joined by Gemma Beasley, who shares her journey from the corporate world to launching her own recruitment business, Hudson Cooper Search, specializing in construction recruitment.

We’ll explore how she made the leap from the UK to the U.S. market, the unique challenges she faced, and the realities of building a business focused on relationships over transactions. 

Gemma also reveals how moving to 50% retained search has given her a competitive edge—and why increasing her focus on retained search has transformed her business.

If you're curious about building stronger client relationships, creating predictable income, and navigating the competitive world of recruitment—this one’s for you.

We discuss:

• The challenges and opportunities of recruiting in the U.S.
• How to build a business rooted in client relationships
• Adding value by understanding client needs deeply
• The power of community and support in entrepreneurship
• Adapting to an ever-evolving recruitment landscape

Subscribe for more conversations on the future of retained search and how recruiters are redefining success.

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

Ever felt the frustration of chasing contingent recruitment leads only to see them slip away?

In this episode of The Retained Search Show, we sit down with Ross Sanderson, Group Director of Solutions at STR Group, as he shares his transformative journey from contingent recruitment to mastering retained search.

We explore the challenges, the mindset shifts, and the impact on both business success and personal fulfillment. Plus, Ross gives us a glimpse into the future of his team and how structured processes and clear communication lay the foundation for long-term growth.

Tune in to hear:

✅ The realities of shifting from contingent to retained search
✅ The biggest misconceptions recruiters have about retained work
✅ How retained search transformed team engagement and job satisfaction
✅ The key processes that drive success and consistency
✅ What’s next for Ross and STR Group’s retained growth

A must-listen for recruiters looking to take control of their business and career! 🎧

You can connect with Ross here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-sanderson-22050826/

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

Stuck in the "Contained" or "Retingent" Haze?

We're here to peel back the layers of this complex journey, spotlighting halfway retained adopters who find themselves stuck in a limbo of mixed results.

We want to help you unlock the full benefits of completely transitioning to retained search by understanding the processes, pricing, and commitment required.

Stay tuned—there’s so much we’ll cover:

• Exploring the challenges faced when shifting to retained search
• Highlighting the importance of community support in achieving recruitment success
• And how, despite regional differences, the core principles of recruitment remain consistent worldwide

Our most exciting news? We're launching a brand-new virtual Masterclass on 18th February (yes, the 18th, not the 17th!), and we’d love for you to join us. It’s going to be exceptional.

In this Masterclass, we’ll show recruiters how to smash their 2025 goals and complete their journey to Retained, providing:

✅ 95%+ fill rates
✅ Predictable, forecastable revenue
✅ Maximum team productivity, high retention rates, and increased morale
✅ Growth in EBITDA and the value of your business
✅ The ability to move up the value chain, securing bigger fees and higher margins

You’ll leave with the tools and confidence to break free from the “Retingent” and “Contingent” danger zones and step confidently into true retained search—putting you several steps ahead of your competition.

Register here to secure your spot:
https://www.linkedin.com/events/7288113497605890050

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

Join us for an inspiring and insightful journey into the shift from contingent to retained search, as we celebrate real-life success stories from our community and share actionable strategies for setting and achieving your goals in 2025.

In this episode, we reflect on how personal experiences shape professional growth, the pivotal role of supportive leadership in nurturing talent, and the power of a strong community. 

You’ll walk away with practical insights on:

• Setting impactful goals using proven frameworks
• Creating cohesive business development strategies
• Building a leadership style that inspires ambition
• Leveraging your network for sustained success

Tune in to gain clarity, motivation, and a roadmap for thriving in 2025!

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

Curious about how to redefine your recruitment strategy and achieve outstanding results? Discover transformative insights from the vibrant community at Retrained Search as we explore the journey of recruiters transitioning from contingent to retained models. 

This episode celebrates the significant milestones achieved by our members.

Alongside industry experts Paul and Rowan, we unpack the complexities of c-suite hiring and share how simple prompts can lead to comprehensive assessment metrics, ensuring you have all the tools needed to tackle these challenges.

You'll also hear Lucy's inspiring story of expanding her recruitment practice globally, a testament to the power of shared knowledge and collaboration within our community. 

This episode invites you to reflect on your own career and life aspirations, challenging you to consider whether your current path aligns with your ultimate goals. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this engaging episode promises valuable insights and the motivation to keep pushing boundaries.

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

Join us as we celebrate remarkable recruitment journeys and exciting milestones in the retained search world. From inspiring career transitions to transformative strategies, this episode is packed with stories that redefine success.

You'll hear how Josh overcame a recruitment freeze to secure a placement against all odds, Kelly's shift from contingent to retained work that launched a major multi-hire campaign, newcomer Mary’s first retainer win from a bold cold call, and Mike’s business expansion through strategic new appointments—all testaments to the power of persistence, strategy, and community support.

We’ll also dive into actionable insights on understanding clients’ pain points, using tools like empathy mapping to build stronger relationships, and positioning yourself as a trusted advisor. Whether you're navigating the retained recruitment model or looking to enhance your strategies, this episode is your front-row seat to stories and techniques that inspire growth and success.

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

Josh Foulkes from Sonder & Metric joins us for an inspiring episode on The Retained Search Show.

Imagine a David versus Goliath story where a small recruitment firm triumphs over industry behemoths like Russell Reynolds. 

Through market insight and client-centric service, this firm redefined what's possible in executive search. 

We explore how their tailored approach not only met client needs but also proposed a cost-effective salary range, underscoring the value of personalised service. Stories from our colleague Ryan in Tokyo echo this theme—demonstrating that a consultant's expertise can rival the reputation of larger firms. Such narratives illuminate the strategic shift from contingent to retained recruitment and the ensuing advantages in revenue forecasting and personal growth.

Transitioning into the realm of C-suite recruitment, we discuss the intricacies of navigating high-stakes hiring. 

Reflecting on parallels with the IT industry's reliance on giants, we highlight the importance of impeccable processes for smaller firms to compete. Through the lens of our experiences, this episode offers a wealth of insights into the evolving dynamics of executive search.

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/

Retained recruitment isn't just an option; it's a powerful strategy that can redefine your success in any industry, market and client-base. 

We promise you'll learn how to break free from the misconceptions that have held you back. From concrete to mining, we've got compelling statistics and real-life stories that prove retained recruitment is not only possible but the best solution. 

You'll hear about Sabrina's inspiring leap into retained recruitment without prior business development experience and how Josh managed to outshine larger firms. These narratives illustrate that success in this field isn't bound by geography or market constraints. Listen as we share triumphs from Zimbabwe to Dubai, demonstrating that with persistence and the right mindset, smaller firms and individuals can achieve remarkable results in competitive settings.

Finally, we celebrate the successes within our digital marketing community, highlighting how retained search strategies can yield substantial returns. Ryan's negotiation skills in Japan secured him a 40% fee, while Greg Lawrence's story proves you don't need complex tech to thrive. 

Our gratitude extends to the Retrained members who make our community vibrant and innovative, and we detail our programs—Search Foundations and Search Mastery—to empower those ready to excel in retained work. Let this episode inspire you to overcome barriers and embrace the full potential of retained recruitment.

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Want to know more about our retained search training? Talk to us: https://retrainedsearch.com/book-a-demo/

Check out our reviews: https://retrainedsearch.com/reviews/

Join our upcoming masterclasses: https://retrainedsearch.com/webinars/

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LinkedIn

Connect with Louise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-archer-48612844/

Connect with Jordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retainedsearchcoach/

Follow Retrained Search: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retrained-search/