Has technology ended the need for search firms to have international offices?

Erevena has successfully delivered searches in over 30 countries from our offices in London. Over the past 10 years, we have dedicated ourselves to developing knowledge of the technology industry, building our international networks and increasing brand visibility.

Technology has certainly assisted in our internationalisation. Social media and particularly Linkedin have given increased visibility and access to senior Executives. The world is undoubtedly a smaller place because of technology and that impacts Executive Search. The game may have changed in our industry: less time is spent understanding who is responsible for certain functions in businesses vs. how well the individual performs. However, technology cannot replace context or reference-ability. 

Should we only rely on social media to conduct international search, it would inevitably become a transactional, volume driven process where the success of the project is determined by unpredictable response rates. In reality the ability to conduct international search from a single location, rests on having a trusted network across key international centres and a deep understanding of the community in which you operate.

Technology is a global marketplace.  Every engagement requires an international lens or more specifically a focus on the epicentres of technology talent – San Francisco, New York, Berlin, London. Erevena has spent time developing an understanding of key cities from which so many technology businesses originate and talent flows between. Cultivating those relationships takes dedication, real knowledge about your subject matter, and a good Airmiles account!  When you aren’t a “global” brand, you certainly need to work harder at every phone call. Through intelligent, well-informed discussions on the mechanics of different business models, international expansion, investment cycles or trends we aim to develop relationships that are of value to both parties and stretch farther than a single search.