Walmsley Wilkinson is calling for a more people-focused approach to senior recruitment, urging organisations to balance efficiency with compassion when engaging with leadership candidates.
The firm reports that long hiring cycles, limited communication and sustained uncertainty are increasingly affecting confidence levels, even among highly accomplished executives.
Recent data indicates that on average, organisations require 75 days to appoint senior leaders, 90 days for Director-level roles and up to 120 days for Executive positions.
“Senior leaders are often regarded as resilient, confident decision-makers, trusted to guide organisations through complexity and change, but even the most experienced professionals can experience self-doubt during their career search,” said Taryn Wilkinson, Director at Walmsley Wilkinson.
“Confidence isn’t fixed – it can be influenced by circumstance, particularly when communication is lacking or timelines stretch indefinitely. When leaders find themselves between roles, the emotional and psychological impact can be significant.”
The company emphasises that extended periods without feedback can create unnecessary anxiety and is encouraging employers to maintain open, timely dialogue throughout recruitment stages.
Taryn Wilkinson added: “Behind every CV is a person. At senior level, candidates are often balancing professional ambition with family responsibilities and financial considerations. Respectful communication is not just good practice – it reflects an organisation’s culture and values.
“Clear expectations, transparent timelines and constructive feedback, where possible, can significantly reduce unnecessary anxiety. Even brief updates can reassure candidates that their time and effort are respected.”
In addition to advising employers, Walmsley Wilkinson is offering guidance to professionals navigating career change, recommending structured job search routines and a focus on targeted, meaningful applications.
Taryn Wilkinson said: “We advise candidates to structure their search with defined daily time for research, applications and networking, and focus on quality applications and meaningful connections rather than volume. It can also be prudent to invest in professional development through short courses, mentoring or industry events to stay connected and ensure you are up to speed with industry trends.
“Away from the job search, it is good to keep in touch with friends and family for balance and perspective, and some candidates like to engage in volunteering or advisory work to maintain purpose.”
More details can be found at www.walmsleywilkinson.com.
