Essential criteria assessed
A senior recruiter has tested the evidence against the must haves in the agreed brief.
03 / Our standard
A shortlist should already be useful
Screened. Interested. Ready for a proper conversation.
We target an initial shortlist of three to five credible candidates within seven working days of an agreed brief and signed terms.
Our definition
Credible means more than found.
Every shortlisted candidate has been assessed by a senior recruiter, spoken with about the specific opportunity and confirmed that they want to progress. The practical details are checked before the profile reaches you.
Six checks
What arrives with every candidate.
The role discussed
The candidate has had a proper conversation about the company, the role and the work ahead.
Interest confirmed
They have said they want to progress, rather than simply agreeing to receive more information.
Practical fit checked
Salary, location and working pattern are broadly aligned before their profile reaches you.
Availability recorded
Their notice period and likely availability are clear, alongside relevant experience and any concerns.
Permission to present
The candidate knows where their details are going and has agreed that we can share them.
See the output
What does that evidence look like in practice?
Open a fictional candidate pack showing the assessment, practical detail and recruiter judgement supplied with a credible shortlist.
Open the example pack ↗Clear status
Shortlist and market map are not the same thing.
Ready to discuss
Screened and interested candidates who meet all six checks and are ready for a useful first conversation with you.
Useful research
Sourced or contacted profiles can be shared separately to show the shape of the market. They do not count towards the shortlist.
One standard for every permanent search.