Question 1

What does an executive search firm do?

Accepted Answer

An executive search firm identifies, approaches, and places senior leadership candidates — typically C-suite, board, and VP-level roles — on behalf of client organisations. Unlike general recruitment, executive search uses direct outreach, market mapping, and confidential candidate engagement to access passive talent not available through job boards.

Question 2

What is an Employer of Record (EOR)?

Accepted Answer

An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party organisation that legally employs workers on behalf of another company. The EOR handles payroll, statutory compliance (PF, ESI, TDS), contracts, and benefits — allowing businesses to hire in India or any new market without setting up a local legal entity.

Question 3

Can I hire employees in India without a local company?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Through an Employer of Record (EOR), you can legally hire and pay employees in India without incorporating a local entity. The EOR becomes the legal employer on record, managing all compliance obligations under Indian labour law while you retain full operational control.

Question 4

What is the difference between EOR and HRO?

Accepted Answer

An EOR (Employer of Record) becomes the legal employer of your workforce — used when entering a new market without a local entity. HRO (Human Resource Outsourcing) manages HR functions for employees already within your existing legal structure. EOR is for market entry; HRO is for operational efficiency.

Question 5

How long does an executive search typically take?

Accepted Answer

A typical executive search takes 6–12 weeks from brief to offer acceptance. At Atlass Partners, senior-led searches for C-suite and leadership roles are generally completed in 8–10 weeks, depending on role complexity, seniority, and market availability.

Question 6

How much does executive search cost in India?

Accepted Answer

Executive search fees in India are typically a percentage of the placed candidate's annual CTC (Cost to Company), ranging from 7.5% to 25% depending on seniority and hiring volume. Use our fee calculator on the Professional Search page for an instant estimate based on your specific requirements.

Question 7

What is outplacement and why do companies use it?

Accepted Answer

Outplacement is a career transition service that employers provide to departing employees during redundancies or restructures. It includes career coaching, CV rewriting, LinkedIn optimisation, and job search support. Companies use outplacement to protect their employer brand, maintain morale among remaining staff, and support departing employees in landing their next role faster.

Executive Search & Leadership
Advisory — India

Industries We Cover in India

Leadership Roles We Place in India

How We Run a Search in India

Schedule a Discovery Call

Common Questions — India

Ready to Make Your Next
Leadership Hire in India?

Executive Search & LeadershipAdvisory — India