Make an assessment of the challenges dominating the position and organization.

Express these challenges in the position description. Invite candidates to talk about how they would approach them.

Inform candidates. Be clear, where you can, about opportunities and challenges, governance and style, culture and dynamics. If there is considerable autonomy, say so; if there are severe limits, say so; if significant collaboration is required, say so. Truth and clarity will gain you better prepared and often better candidates.

Encourage diversity. Invite a full array of potential candidates.

Realize that the top experts regarding a given position are the candidates. The contrasts in their approaches will inform your choice. Look on our candidates as a group of consultants, one of whom will be selected to act on his/her recommendations.

Use information gained in the assessment and selection process to negotiate a specific strategy with the successful candidate.