Improving Executive Search: Essentials for Selecting, Vetting, and Onboarding C-Suite Leaders
Finding and hiring the right executive can make or break a company’s growth. Emily Sander talks with Jordan Burton, an executive assessor and trainer, about what it takes to select, vet, and onboard C-suite leaders the right way. Burton breaks down how to go beyond surface-level hiring and build a thoughtful process that delivers results.
Key Takeaways
Start with the “why.” Before posting a role, clearly define the business problem you’re solving. Don’t assume you need a CFO just because the title sounds right.
Design the role, then the search. Build a one-page role profile that outlines what success looks like. This helps align everyone before the search even starts.
Use your network before your job board. Tap trusted connections who understand performance and diversity to uncover hidden talent.
Notable Quotes
“What’s not happening in the company that needs to happen? That’s the question you start with before defining a role.”
“Don’t blend selling and vetting. Learn first, sell later.”
“We’re not big fans of panel interviews—most companies do them because they’re not taking good notes.”
Real-World Applications
Clarify the business gap.
Example: A CEO thinks they need a CMO but realizes through Burton’s framework they actually need a Head of Growth focused on pipeline efficiency.Build a simple role profile.
Example: Instead of a vague “CFO wanted,” the team documents three measurable outcomes: clean audits, scalable reporting, and investor-ready forecasts.Improve post-interview decisions.
Example: Instead of voting on gut feel, the team scores competencies on a 1–4 scale, reviews notes, and makes data-driven decisions together.
Hiring an executive isn’t about filling a seat—it’s about solving the right problem with the right person. By clarifying the need, structuring interviews, and learning from every step, companies can turn executive search from a gamble into a strategy. As Burton reminds us, great hires start with great questions.
Time Stamps:
02:31 Defining the Right Role
08:04 Networking for Top Talent
12:37 Communicating Technical Knowledge
16:57 Approaching Potential Candidates
20:32 Conducting Authentic Interviews
23:18 Effective Interview Conversations
27:23 Panel Interviews: Pros and Cons
32:41 Final Stages and Decision Making
36:19 Behavioral Assessments in Hiring
37:58 Talgo's Approach to Interview Training
Links Mentioned:
Interview Training Resources Website: https://www.talgo.io/
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.