Answers
Retained vs contingency search: what's the difference?
Retained search is paid up front in instalments to run one exclusive search, whether or not it succeeds. Contingency search is paid only on a hire, but the firm usually works many roles at once and shares the field with others. The trade-off is focus versus risk — and a success-only model aims to give you both.
Retained search
You pay a retainer (often a third of the fee) to start, more at milestones, regardless of outcome. In return you get exclusivity and dedicated effort — typically used for the most senior or sensitive roles. The risk sits with you: you've paid before anyone is hired.
Contingency search
You pay only when a candidate is placed, so the risk sits with the firm — but that firm is usually running several searches at once and may share the role with rival recruiters. Speed and volume can win over depth, which suits more replaceable roles.
The success-only alternative
The Quantum Club runs each mandate exclusively, with a dedicated strategist and success-only pricing (20–25%, no retainer) plus a 60-day guarantee — the focus of retained search with the risk profile of contingency. Every mandate is the club's alone, and the vast majority are never publicly listed.
Frequently asked
Which is better, retained or contingency?
It depends on the role. Retained suits highly confidential or scarce senior seats; contingency suits more replaceable roles where speed matters. A success-only exclusive model aims to combine the strengths of both.
Is No Cure, No Pay the same as contingency?
Similar in that you pay only on a hire, but The Quantum Club's version is exclusive per mandate, strategist-led, and backed by a 60-day guarantee — closer to retained rigour with contingency's risk profile.
Can one role be given to several contingency firms?
Often, yes — which can mean less depth per firm and a scramble to submit CVs. An exclusive mandate avoids that: one firm, fully accountable.
Hire through the Club.
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