Kate Brogden: The Secrets to Leading a Boutique Search Firm- People, Process and Passion.

In this enlightening episode of Recruiting Trailblazers, Marcus sits down with Kate Brogden, a seasoned professional in the executive search and recruiting industry. With over a decade of experience, Kate shares invaluable insights into her journey from a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers to founding her own boutique national executive search and recruiting firm, Evolve Partners. Tune in as Marcus delves into the catalyst behind Kate's entrepreneurial leap, the challenges she faced, and the innovative approaches that set Evolve Partners apart in a competitive market.

- Marcus asks Kate about her transition from working as a CPA at PwC to entering the recruiting industry and eventually founding Evolve Partners. 
- Kate discusses the realization that sparked her decision to start her own firm, emphasizing the importance of innovation in recruiting. 
- Marcus questions the sales aspects of the business and how Kate adapted to it coming from a background with no sales experience at PwC. 
- They discuss the challenges of establishing a personal brand and the impact of social media on the recruiting process. 
- Kate shares her thoughts on performance management within her firm, highlighting the balance between motivational and metric-driven approaches. 
- The conversation steers towards the intricacies of the recruitment process, including comprehensive intake procedures, sourcing strategies, and the benefits of different search models (contingency, retained, and container). 
- Finally, Marcus inquires about the significance of creating a collaborative work environment and the culture at Evolve Partners.

The three biggest takeaways from this episode are: 

1. The importance of innovation in the recruiting industry can't be overstated. Staying ahead requires a willingness to adopt new strategies and tools, as highlighted by Kate's perspective on moving beyond traditional cold-calling metrics. 

2. A comprehensive approach to client engagement, including a detailed intake process and transparent client communication, is critical for success in executive search and recruiting, ensuring a deep understanding of client needs and fostering strong partnerships. 

3. Building a personal brand is essential for recruiters in the digital age. Utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to showcase expertise and connect with both clients and candidates can significantly enhance visibility and credibility in the industry.