Responsive Search Inc.

Your I.T. staffing firm of choice

Responsive Search - I.T. Staffing Specialists
Bringing people and organizations together is our business. Established in 1993 with over two decades of experience in staffing and placement, Responsive Search Inc. continues to serve as one of the premier placement firms in the industry. We work with a diverse clientele ranging from small privately owned companies to Fortune 500 companies and our expertise lies in finding them the right IT talent.
Without great people, no organization can reach its fullest potential. We know that and our clients understand that too. Our job is to find the best candidate for the position you have available. We pride ourselves on a very efficient and effective recruiting process that helps us uncover the most qualified candidates available because we know that when it comes to interviewing, it’s not about quantity, it’s about quality. The candidates we place not only immediately impact their organizations but often ascend in the future to higher positions within their organizations.

Clients and candidates alike come back to us time and again because we know what they want. We ask what they’re looking for and then we listen. It really is that simple.
Our goal is to consistently provide you with the following three guarantees:

Integrity, Service, and Honesty

Keith Hansel

Keith Hansel

President / Recruiting Director at Responsive Search Inc.

 

Keith founded Responsive Search in 2003 with the goal of creating a staffing firm that had at its foundation three guiding principles: “Integrity, Service and Honesty” and that has guided him to create one of the most respected Information Technology Staffing Firms in the industry. With over 25 years of “hands on” recruiting experience Keith brings an exceptional amount of knowledge and expertise to his business.

Keith earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business, from Eastern Illinois University and also played Division I Tennis while attending Eastern and was a Two-Time Academic All American.

Keith’s interests include: spending time with his wife and three children as well as golfing, fishing and traveling.

Steve Rittenhouse

Steve Rittenhouse

Senior Staffing Director

 

They say when you have a job you actually enjoy, it’s called a Career. Shortly after graduating from Lewis University, Steve placed his first Programmer in 1997 and has enjoyed his Career ever since.

Bringing talent and opportunity together is something Steve has gotten really good at, and he looks forward to continuing to do so for many years to come.

When he’s not writing up job orders, vetting candidates or setting up interviews you can find him traveling, boating, fishing, watching Chicago sports, and sometimes cursing his fantasy football team.

Recruiting Methodology

“Our Proven System of Success”

Client and Position Assessment

  • At Responsive Search Inc. we take the time to collect valuable and critical information that allows us to truly understand our client’s culture and key requirements of the position to be filled.
  • We work with the client to establish the goals for the recruiting project and set timelines that guide us during our process.
  • We gather information from our client as to the specific protocols and procedures that our client requires to insure that objectives are met during the recruiting process.
  • A unique fee agreement is created to guide our relationship and to insure that the end result of our relationship is a satisfied client.

Resource Planning Strategy

  • An internal recruiting strategy is created to match the unique requirements of the position to be filled.
  • Recruiting and Staffing resources are assigned to the project and an advanced Applicant Tracking System is used to facilitate the search at every step in the process.
  • Project Plans and Strategy are continuously monitored and adjusted to make sure that the outcome of the recruiting assignment is successful and meets the individual goals of our client.

Candidate Search and Screening

  • Utilizing a database that includes thousands of candidates meticulously collected over the last 25 years we begin the initial stages of gathering specific candidates that match the needs of the position of our client.
  • Initial screening calls are conducted, candidate references are gathered and the verification of education, certification, and job history are completed.
  • Deeper and more extensive communication is then utilized to identify the most appropriate candidates for the job opening and only those top candidates are then prepared to be presented to our client for their review.

Candidate Presentation and Interview Process

  • Once the most talented candidates are identified we present those unique individuals to our client for purposes of scheduling phone interviews and onsite interviews.
  • Critical information is given to our client regarding the unique qualities of the candidates and current compensation and future expectations are included in our resume submission and review process.
  • We prepare our candidates for the interview and give them key information regarding the established interview process of our client.
  • We obtain and share feedback from both the candidate and client to insure that all hiring decision information is available for both the client as well as the candidate being interviewed.
  • We schedule and follow up on all subsequent interviews until the process has identified the candidate whom is the most appropriate for the position to be filled.

Facilitate Offer Negotiations

  • We provide our client with each unique element of the candidate’s current compensation as well as the expectations that the candidate is looking for in an offer.
  • Through market surveys and industry trends we counsel our clients to create an offer that will have the highest probability of acceptance while still keeping budgetary and market balance in mind.
  • According to the individual client policies and procedures we facilitate the extension of the offer to the candidate and work with both sides until a final acceptance has been established.
  • Upon acceptance we guide the candidate through the resignation process as well as advise them of the “pitfalls” of considering/accepting a counteroffer and ultimately work with the candidate to establish a mutually beneficial start date.

Monitor the Placement

  • We work closely with both the client and candidate to share and communicate feedback on the progress of the new hire during the onboarding phase of employment to insure a smooth transition for both parties.
  • Prior to the conclusion of the guarantee period we contact the employer and candidate to confirm that both are thriving in their new relationship.

Client Testimonials

It was a pleasure to work with Keith at Responsive Search. His professionalism and integrity truly sets him apart from other recruiters I have worked with in the past. It was his supportive guidance and honest feedback that helped me get through the long interview process and successfully land my new permanent job. With his industry knowledge and expertise, I recommend Keith’s services to anyone in career transition. I look forward to continuing my business relationship with Keith for the foreseeable future.

Jim Andre Project Manager - Integrated Merchandising Systems, LLC

He probably doesn’t know it, but Keith Hansel (Responsive Search) was instrumental in launching my career forward. Not gonna lie…I was happy and complacent at my current job at the time. Without Keith’s persuasive guidance, I would have probably stayed at that unfulfilling job for many years. I am so happy he convinced me to take the job at the consulting firm, because I wouldn’t be where I am today without having gone through that experience. Keith is more than a recruiter. He is genuinely concerned with your ongoing happiness, and he would never recruit anyone without making sure that not only are you a good fit for the company, but that the company is a good fit for you.

Amy Kaulius Sr. Presale Solution Architect - Teradata Corporation

Keith Hansel was simply outstanding throughout all the recruitment process that led to my employment. He supported me at each and every single step of the process providing me with tips and best practice to succeed. Also, Keith promptly updated me with the progress of the application at all times and this is something that I’d never experienced before with any other agencies. He is genuinely interested in finding candidates a job and always tries to exceed their expectations. Also, our conversations were real motivational and this shows the ability he has to build long lasting trust relationships with candidates. I personally thanked him before the final stage of the recruitment because, whatever the result, I really felt well supported throughout and I strongly believe he is an important asset for Responsive Search.

Souraya Mobayed Programmer Analyst - Will County Clerk

I have had the opportunity of working with Keith during my latest career transition. His advices are always valuable and intelligent. Keith made a difficult, stressful hiring process pleasant. He is action oriented, produces results through proactive candidate sourcing and screening, seeking to do the work it takes find and identify talent rather than just pass on resumes for review to manager. I have to say that Keith Hansel at Responsive Search is an excellent resource for clients and colleagues.

Andriy Stashatov Senior Web Software Engineer - Integrated Merchandising Systems, LLC

“I had a great experience with Responsive Search from start to finish. Keith took the time to get to know me and build a relationship with me. I never felt pressured and he was always available when I had a question. He was friendly, professional, and helpful even when he was in vacation. He kept me well informed throughout all the hiring and my visa transfer process.”

Danilo Software Engineer - Seyfarth Shaw

Keith has provided us with some fantastic hires. He took the time to fully understand our firm and our culture. He is very responsive (no pun intended) and nailed it for us. Thanks Keith for supporting us!

Ted Goodman Vice President and Partner - Centric Consulting

I’ve worked with Keith Hansel and Responsive Search over the past several years to source top IT talent for my organization. Through that time, Keith has developed a thorough understanding of my business, our company culture and IT environment. He leverages this knowledge with a direct, honest and reasonable approach to doing business as a true partner which results in a win-win for both of us. This is what differentiates Keith and Responsive Search from their competition.

When resource needs arise, I’m confident in connecting with Keith and walking through requirements in a professional, trusting and customer focused fashion. He understands candidate “fit” includes a comprehensive package of technical skills, business acumen and clear communication skills. This is a direct result of Keith truly listening to customer needs, not just working to “fill an order”.

I highly recommend Keith and Responsive Search to exceed your expectations when sourcing top-notch IT talent.

Tom Lammers Corporate IT Director - Home Products International - NA, Inc

Responsive Search takes the time to understand our company, culture and needs. They go the extra mile to find candidates who fit our needs! Candidates are prepared prior to talking to us. They understand the IMS environment and what our expectations and requirements are.
It’s nice to have a relationship with a company like Responsive Search. They give us personal touch unlike other firms we have dealt with.
We have had great success with candidates placed by Responsive Search.

Darrin Chonos Senior Director of IT - Integrated Merchandising Systems, LLC

“I have worked with Keith on both sides of his service offerings. As a candidate Keith was the recruiter that matched me to IMS. He was very knowledgeable of IMS, the role I was applying for and the leadership I would be working for. He was very thorough in matching me to the company and preparing me for the position.

As a manager at IMS, I utilize Keith’s services to fill my position vacancies as the department expands. Having worked with several recruiters I can say that Keith is my preferred choice. I feel that other agencies are chasing numbers and often times do not understand candidate technical jargon or skills. Keith does understand technical candidates and is able to weed through a sea of acronyms to find the right candidates for IMS. He does not just chase numbers, but rather is our partner in filling our talent voids.”

John-David Bennett Application Development Manager - Integrated Merchandising Systems, LLC

I have known Keith for over 20 years and he has consistently provided a high level of service to me as both a candidate and a client. There is more to a good fit than a resume meeting the posted requirements and Keith uses a thorough understanding of his clients to optimize that fit. In addition, Keith has always been honest with me, even when it did not benefit Responsive Search. I appreciate working with someone who is always focused on the long term relationship.

Jim Fehr IT Director - OTTO Engineering

During the past 15+ years, I’ve worked with Responsive Search from both the hiring perspective, as well as my own placement. I’ve always found then to uphold the highest level of integrity, ensuring their services bring value to both the candidate and corporation. I’ve honestly not met many IT search firms that I feel have my trust and confidence like Responsive Search.

Julie Algrem Director IT Business Solutions - Havi Global Solutions

“Working with Steve was a pleasure. He is an incredibly detailed, thorough, and personable recruiter. He listened to what I had to say and what I was looking for, I felt he took what I said and really tailored the search to what I was looking for. He is not your typical recruiter, he is not pushy and I always felt he had my best interest at heart. He helped guide me through every process of my job search and made me feel comfortable and he will always be my “go to” resource when a need arises. I am very thankful for his help and highly recommend Steve

Megan Fernandez Senior Consultant

Steve’s professionalism and experience were clearly evident in our interactions. While so many in the recruiting field are about numbers and $$$, Steve made it clear he was mostly concerned with finding me the right fit. I would certainly work with him again in the future and would recommend him to anyone seeking a professional in the recruiting arena.

Bruce Kutnick ETL Developer - Insurance Auto Auctions

Steve was able to find a great match between me and my new employer because of his experience in understanding employer requirements and expectations, and being able to ask the right questions of potential candidates. I felt that he was really concerned about finding the right characteristics for the employee and employer for a mutually beneficial blend, rather than just trying to find any person for a job opening. I would highly recommend Steve!

Kimberly Howlett Business Analyst - Integrated Merchandising Systems, LLC

Steve recently helped me land a new position. From the first time he contacted me all the way until I received the job offer, he was there to provide support and guidance along the way. He makes it very easy for you to access and communicate with him and really does go out of his way to make sure you’re being taken care of in regards to finding the right position. I felt very comfortable and at ease speaking and communicating back and forth with him because he was more than willing to help and listen. I couldn’t be any more happier and satisfied working with Steve and would definitely recommend his services to anyone

Lindley Mahinay IT Associate - Strata Decision Technology

“Steve was great, beginning to end. He helped me find a position when I was in a bad place at my former job. He took the time to talk WITH me about my goals, my skills and what I was looking for.  I was not just a paycheck to him and even though it was a long road, he helped me find my place.”

Tonya Foust Programmer Analyst - American College of Healthcare Executives

Steve is a high-energy, dynamic professional who exemplifies the platinum standard of the recruiting industry. Using his connections, intelligence and gusto, he delivers for his corporate clients.

Samer Odeh IT Infrastructure Manager - Omron Management Center of America

“Steve is a true professional, very knowledgeable and goes the extra mile to give exceptional service to his clients. He really understood my needs and what I was looking for in my next professional step. Steve helped me land at my current position and I love the job, people, and atmosphere here. I would definitely work with him again and would recommend him and Responsive Search to other clients.”

Sony Hanlotxomphou Software Engineer - SPP

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