We've begun a profiling project in the UK from here in the states.

What's profiling? It's when we approach the names we've sourced on behalf of the customer and get a set of questions answered - usually 10-12 - in advance of the customer's call. It is that first rap on the door of a truly passive possible candidate and it helps remove the surprise behind the approach for the customer.

In the UK we're meeting with a kind of dumb-founded surprise in response to our approach. Sure, it's a tough space (quants) but we've done these here in the states and for the most part, they quickly acclimate to the idea behind our approach but these overseas counterparts seem to be finding our approach "odd".

I have a couple questions:
Is telephone names sourcing a common practice in the UK (and other parts of the world)?
Does it seem so odd to have a recruiter calling someone who isn't actively looking for a job?
What techniques would you suggest to get over the "really surprised" element many of these people seem to be experiencing?

Your ideas are REALLY appreciated!

Maureen
NameSourcer blog: http://tinyurl.com/33qezt