"Time is the scarcest resource, and unless it is managed, nothing else can be managed. The analysis of one's time, moreover, is the only easily accessible and yet systematic way to analyze one's work and to think through what really matters." . Peter F. Druker - The Effective Executive At B. Brownson & Associates, what really matters is exceeding client expectations. What follows is a representative time line of key milestones for the executive sourcing engagement through the four phases discussed in this section: Assess & Specify, Identify & Evaluate, Select & Negotiate, and Assimilate & Deploy. This illustrative process assumes the client and B. Brownson & Associates, L. P. have worked through the decision process with agreement that the position vacancy is indeed critical and requires the identification of highly qualified candidates with outstanding track records of performance meeting - or exceeding - client specifications and expectations, and able to "hit the ground running." A. Preliminary Client Consultation - Agreement to proceed with the agreement. B. Preliminary Exploratory & Fact Finding Meeting - Develop detailed information required to prepare preliminary engagement documentation. C. Preliminary Engagement Documentation - Received by client within 14 calendar days from the date of Event "B". Engagement Confirmation Letter. (2 Copies - one copy to be signed and returned to the firm) Engagement Guarantee. Preliminary Client Synopsis Preliminary Position Specification. Preliminary Source List D. Meeting to Approve / Modify Engagement Documentation. (This example assumes the Confirmation Letter is signed by the client and received by the firm on this date.) E. Approved Engagement Documentation - Received by client within 7 calendar days from date of Event "D". Approved Client Synopsis Approved Position Specification Approved Source List F. Candidate Interview (s) with Client - Usually at least one viable candidate will be presented to the client within the first 35 calendar days from the date the Confirmation Letter is signed by the Client (Event "D"). G. 70 Day Guarantee - If the client is dissatisfied with the quality of the service provided during the first 70 calendar days of the engagement (from the date the Confirmation Letter is signed by the client - Event "D" ) the firm will refund all professional fees paid to that date.