Design the search strategy with alternatives
Course overview · 4 min reading + 12 min practice, estimated
Principles and method
Translate the brief into search lanes, evidence requirements, outreach proposition and assessment stages. Estimate effort and timing as ranges with dependencies, not guarantees unsupported by market evidence. Include a first review point where early research can challenge the brief. Explain alternative approaches if the market does not support the original constraints. Make candidate experience and handling responsibilities part of the plan. The client should understand what you will do, what they must do and which decisions remain uncertain.
Worked example
The initial plan tests two adjacent industries and a narrower direct competitor lane. After ten substantive conversations, the team reviews whether location and compensation are limiting interest before increasing contact volume.
Put it into practice
Create a search plan with three lanes, milestones and one contingency.
Use fictional information and keep your work in your own notes.
Compare your approach: self-review guidance
Link each lane to role capabilities and state the evidence that would trigger a change. Include client review responsibilities and avoid interpreting low response as proof of no talent.
Sources and further reading
Original Academy teaching and fictional examples. These references provide context, not endorsement. Edition 2026.09; updated 2026-09-24.
- CIPD: Recruitment
Professional context for the recruitment lifecycle.
- GOV.UK: Set up a business
UK starting point. Business structure and obligations depend on the circumstances.