Executive Search Blog
Our executive search blog offers expert insights into a range of recruitment and business topics.
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Women in SaaS: How to Diversify Your Team
While there have been some efforts to improve gender diversity in SaaS in recent years, it’s clear that there’s still a long way to go to create a more balanced and diverse workforce in the technology industry. Overall, the percentage of female graduates with core STEM degrees is steadily growing. However, the split is still just 27%. Initiatives are being undertaken in the STEM fields to encourage female representation at all levels, including leadership positions.
With the industry dominated by males, companies are taking initiatives to attract more females, but why?

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Strategies to Boost Your Confidence
Have you ever doubted your abilities, even in the face of success? Do you fear that others will uncover your perceived incompetence? When things don't go as planned, does self-criticism consume your thoughts? If you've experienced these feelings, you may be dealing with imposter syndrome – a phenomenon where individuals question their capabilities and achievements, believing they are not as competent as others think.

The Power of Preparation: Consultant Stories Part 2
Preparation for an interview is the number one thing you can do to increase your chances of success. As a SaaS and FinTech recruitment firm, we’ve got many examples of how preparation increases your chances of success.
Here is part 2 of the stories from the Oakstone team about how preparation is key.

The Power of Preparation: Consultant Stories Part 1
Preparation for an interview is the number one thing you can do to increase your chances of success. As a SaaS and FinTech recruitment firm, we’ve got many examples of how preparation increases your chances of success.
Here is part 1 of the stories from the Oakstone team about how preparation is key.

The Secrets of Effective Collaboration
Over the years, businesses have tirelessly pursued the establishment of collaborative cultures. They’ve experimented with various methods, but several strategies have emerged as particularly effective: encouraging meaningful encounters and emphasising the art of listening.

Retained Executive Search: Unveiling the Secret to Finding Top Talent
This article will delve into retained executive search and its benefits. We will explore what retained executive search entails, its unique approach, the access it provides to hidden talent, its comprehensive process, and why the fees associated with it are often worth the investment.

When Should You Use a Recruitment Partner?: Building Stronger Teams Together
The secret weapon of many successful companies is leveraging recruitment partners, but why do so many companies with internal talent teams still use recruitment partners, and how can using a recruitment partner help build a strong team together?

Redundancy: What do to next?
With the large number of redundancies being made across industries, there will be many people feeling the same way as you, so take the time to process your redundancy and think strategically about your next move. After all, redundancy can be an opportunity for growth and transformation.

5 Tips to Build a High-Performing Team in 2023
Every business wants excellent teams to help build their brands and drive them towards their goals. Building a high-performing team is a challenging task. Every individual has to be strategically handpicked to ensure there are no outliers.
Whether you’re an HR professional or hiring manager, there are vital pointers to consider when embarking on building a team and then cultivating a high-performance environment.

6 Essential Soft Skills for Thriving Professionals in the Age of AI
In a world rapidly advancing in technology, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries and professions. As AI becomes an integral part of the workplace, professionals must equip themselves with new skills to remain relevant and successful.

Expert Insights: Are Career Planners Better Hires?
This will differ significantly, depending on who you ask; however, this is often measured by title, recognition, fame or wealth in the business world. When it comes to achieving career success, many people will create a plan to get to where they want to be. This may start with goals and a step-by-step strategy; however, if we look at the superstars in any industry, only some credit their success to a linear plan.

6 Ways To Get The Most Out of Your Mentor
One of the main reasons to have a mentor is to help further your career. A mentor can be anyone from someone you work with to a family friend and is usually someone you look up to and admire due to their achievements. Here are four ways to make the most out of having a mentor and to make it mutually beneficial.

Making Informed Career Decisions: Assessing If a Role is Right for You
In this blog, we will delve into the essential considerations that often go unnoticed during the excitement of a job offer. Focusing on these basics ensures the role aligns with your career path and fulfils your expectations.

FinTech: Why More Strategic Recruiting is Essential
With the increase of new payment systems, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and B2B adoption driving transactions, FinTech’s are facing increasing regulatory demands. With fewer resources in terms of people, FinTech’s could be faced with growth implications.
The scale of job losses but the need for talent requires a much more strategic way of hiring and retaining.

Why Should You Use an Executive Search Firm When Looking For Executive Leadership?
In the complex and competitive business world, finding exemplary executive leadership can make all the difference in strategy, direction, and growth. These individuals can steer the company towards success; however, identifying and securing this talent can be challenging.

AI in Recruitment: Advantages, Disadvantages and Best Practises
It comes as no surprise that AI and ML are being more frequently used in the recruitment process; in fact, 88% of companies globally already use AI in some way for HR, according to SHRM.
In this blog, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of AI and ML in recruitment as well as highlight how best to use it.

Can We Trust AI in the Finance Sector?
The finance sector has always been at the forefront of adopting emerging technologies, and artificial intelligence (AI) is no exception. As AI continues to revolutionise various aspects of the financial industry, it is essential to discuss its trustworthiness.

C-Suite Search and Succession
Oakstone offers advice on C-Suite recruitment, executive search and planning C-Suite succession.

How Ageist Are You? Challenging Stereotypes in Hiring Practices
When hiring new talent, it is natural for people to create assumptions and stereotypes based on various aspects of a person, including their age. Imagine you are in a position to hire someone for your sales team and receive two CVs of equal calibre and experience.

How To Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone: Think Big
In this blog post, we will explore the importance of embracing a limitless mindset and how small steps can pave the way to building your desired future.