How it works
The same person on both sides of the match.
I vet every candidate and every opportunity myself. I work with a small number of companies and candidates at a time, so each one gets my full attention.
The two paths
For companies
You deal with me from the first call to the last follow-up.
- 01 Kickoff with the people who will work with the hireWe agree on what the role requires, what someone at that level should know, and what evidence would show they are ready. The screening questions and the definition of a strong answer are written together before any candidate is contacted.
- 02 Screen for ownership and how they workRik's first conversation tests motivation, ownership, and resourcefulness, the same ten-minute read described in his essay on the subject. For technical roles that includes how a candidate works with AI tools, which Rik now does himself with Claude Code.
- 03 Calibrated assessmentA time-limited take-home and live exercises that reflect the actual work, scored against the criteria set at kickoff.
- 04 A shortlist, then a debriefThe goal is at least five strong candidates at the final stage. If none get through, we reconvene and ask whether the screen, the expectations, or the fairness of the process is the problem.
For candidates
Confidential, with me, and nothing is shared without your yes.
- 01 A confidential first conversationWe talk about where you are, what you want next, and what you will and won't consider. Nothing leaves the conversation.
- 02 An honest readI tell you how I see your background in the market today, including what is strong and what needs work.
- 03 Introductions, only with your yesWhen a role I'm actively working on fits, I describe it to you first. I introduce you to the company only if you say so.
- 04 Support through the processPreparation, honest feedback after every conversation, and guidance on the offer and negotiation.
- 05 Follow-up, whatever the outcomeWhether it works out or not, you hear back from me. Every relationship matters, including the ones that don't end in a placement.
An invitation
Start with a conversation.
Hiring, or considering what comes next. Either way you are speaking with me.