Jody Hilton. Founder, SureTech Recruiting.

I built a recruiting firm, ran it for twelve years, took it to number ten on the Sacramento Business Journal's fastest-growing companies list, sold it, and still do the recruiting myself. Before that, I spent fifteen years in electrical and mechanical design engineering and engineering management. I've been the hiring manager as well as the recruiter.

Beyond the search, you get a read on your comp against the market, a hiring plan when several roles need filling, and a straight answer when the profile you want doesn't exist at the price you've set. I'll say so on the first call.

I keep a small number of searches open at a time so every one gets senior hours. Each week you know what's moving, what's stuck, and what needs a decision.