Search Practice Overview and Fee Structure


Our Promise | We join schools and candidates

At DovetailED, we craft a perfect fit between the multi-faceted hiring needs of independent schools and the limitless talents of prospective teachers, administrators, and school leaders.

Our Partnership | We are committed to your mission

Trusted by independent schools nationwide, we excel in handling critical searches, even under challenging circumstances and tight deadlines. Our dedicated team provides unparalleled customer service to our school partners, ensuring that every new hire receives the attention they deserve. Review Our School Partner List

Our Expertise | We find unicorns

No matter the complexity of the position, hiring timeline, or geographic challenges, we are experts at finding unicorn candidates and our search practice includes classroom teachers, administrators, senior leadership, and heads of school.  We have especially deep experience searching for admission and marcom professionals, finance and business office leaders, signature program leaders and head coaches, wellness and learning specialists, and skilled advancement and fundraising personnel.

Unparalleled Communication and Service
At DovetailED, we pride ourselves on our commitment to thorough and constant client communication, as well as providing gold-standard service. We go beyond being a mere service provider or candidate clearinghouse; we consider ourselves your trusted partners in helping you achieve success.


Cutting-Edge Applicant Tracking Platform
DovetailED provides real-time access to candidate profiles and application materials, facilitating swift and seamless management and review of candidate information. This streamlined tool is designed to save valuable time and resources for you and your school.


Innovative One-Way Video Candidate Interviewing Tool
DovetailED offers an optional, one-way video interviewing tool for all searches. This feature enhances candidate screening, is time-efficient for hiring managers and search committees, and offers a more comprehensive understanding of candidates, ensuring the perfect fit for your school.


Enhanced Position Statements
Every DovetailED search includes compelling and beautifully designed position statements, elevating your brand and reinforcing the mission and values that make your school special.

Fee Structure
With DovetailED, there are never annual membership fees or search commissions. We offer a three-phased, flat-rate fee structure:

  • Listing Fee | Schools pay $300 non-refundable fee to list each search

  • Sourcing Fee | Schools pay sourcing fee upon delivery of a viable pool of well-matched and interested candidates.

  • Hiring Fee | Schools pay hiring fee only if they hire a DovetailED candidate.

Exclusivity 
DovetailED waives listing fees in return for an exclusivity period. 30-day and 60-day exclusivity is required for Senior Leadership and CFO/Assistant Head searches, respectively.