ASK THE RECRUITER Question: If I have contacts at an association that's hiring, can I bypass the recruiting firm? Julian HaPartner Heidrick & Struggles In a word, no. It would be counterproductive (and potentially fatal) to your candidacy to try to circumvent an association's retained search partner. That recruiting firm has been retained for a reason: to filter, screen and play interference for their client. If you have a relationship with someone at the association, it will be natural to lobby that person to help you be considered for the role. That person will more than likely refer you to the search firm. You will be best served by acknowledging and embracing… Read More