Build a High-Performance
Executive Search Firm, From the Inside Out
I started as a solo recruiter. Over time, I scaled my firm to 35 employees and millions in recurring revenue. Then I exited, making a multimillion-dollar sale to my own practice leaders. Now I help executive search firm owners do the same.
We help executive search firm owners build firms that run without them.
Founded AnswerQuest
.
$400K First-Year Placements — Solo
.
ADP Area VP of Sales · Glass Award
.
$7.5M → $65M Operation
.
Exited via Leveraged Buyout
Who We Are
Executive search firm growth is based on one truth: the right people must operate in the right roles.
PEOPLE SOLVED is a strategic advisory firm that helps recruiting firm owners scale to high-performance organizations by putting the right people in the right seats. When a role doesn't align with how someone is naturally wired to work, even the most talented professionals will underperform — and the pressure consequently flows back to the founder.
PEOPLE SOLVED combines powerful instinct-based assessments with hands-on advisory support to help firm owners clarify roles, structure teams, and hire more intelligently. Through this distinct approach, we optimize the environment to make peak performance an inevitability.
The RIGHT SEAT
When each employee is operating within the area of their greatest strength and passion, because the role is designed to fit their unique way of thinking.
But when people are in the right seats:
Producers produce more consistently
Turnover drops dramatically
Practice groups scale faster
Leaders emerge internally
Owners regain strategic control of the firm
Employees are empowered to succeed
How We Help Executive Search Firm Owners
Our work focuses on helping firm owners:
01
Define the instinctive DNA required for key roles across the firm, including practice leaders, recruiters, and researchers
02
Evaluate whether current team members are truly operating in the right seats and make an action plan
03
Design team structures that support scalable practice growth
04
Align compensation and accountability with production architecture
05
Develop internal leadership pipelines and succession pathways
06
Exit through selling your practice to team leaders
01
Define the instinctive DNA required for key roles across the firm, including practice leaders, recruiters, and researchers
02
Evaluate whether current team members are truly operating in the right seats and make an action plan
03
Design team structures that support scalable practice growth
04
Align compensation and accountability with production architecture
05
Develop internal leadership pipelines and succession pathways
06
Exit through selling your practice to team leaders
When your structure aligns with how people naturally work, performance becomes more consistent, teams operate with less friction, and growth no longer depends on constant pressure from—or on—the firm owner.
Who You Are
01
Building Your Firm
You've proven you can produce. Now you're wondering: Who do I hire first? A researcher? Another recruiter? An ops person? The wrong first hire can cost you a year of momentum, and a lot of money. We help solo and early-stage firm owners build with the right blueprint from day one, so you scale on a foundation that actually holds.
02
Scaling Without the Pain
You've made hires that looked great on paper—and didn't deliver.
You're past the startup phase. You've got a team. But something's off: turnover is too high, production is inconsistent, and you're still the one holding everything together. The issue isn't effort or talent. It's fit. We help scaling firms diagnose exactly where the misalignment is and build a team structure that actually performs.
03
Building Your Exit, Your Legacy.
You want a firm that runs—and sells—without you.
You've built something real. But if the business can't operate without you in the middle of it, there's no clean exit. Paul structured a leveraged buyout by his own practice leaders—and that only happened because the right people were already in the right seats. We help established owners build the leadership depth and succession pathways that make an exit actually possible.
THE FOUNDER
Meet Paul
Paul Silitsky spent more than twenty-five years building, leading, and ultimately exiting one of the most decorated executive search firms in its class.
He founded AnswerQuest as a solo recruiter — generating more than $400,000 in placements in his first year. Over the next two decades, he grew his recruiting firm operations to a staff of 35, developed a practice that scaled from $750K to $4 million in recurring revenue, earned ten consecutive Best Places to Work honors, and ultimately exited through a leveraged buyout by his own long-tenured practice leaders.
Earlier in his career, Paul built and led sales organizations across multiple industries. At ADP, he progressed from entry-level sales to Area Vice President of Sales, earning the Glass Award for Exceptional Sales Leadership. He later led operations at a high-growth firm that scaled from three employees to more than 3,000, and from $7.5 million to $65 million in revenue.
Across every stage — startup, scale, and enterprise — one principle has held constant: when the right people are in the right seats, and leaders are empowered to lead, performance follows.
Client Results
What Leaders Are Saying
“I met Paul Silitsky over 20 years ago. We were introduced through a mutual friend. Paul owned one of the top performing MRI franchises in the country called AnswerQuest. I was excited to take on a role as an executive recruiter at his firm and very quickly understood why he was so successful.
First, he is a wonderful leader and manager. He manages to the numbers and analytics yet still was able to motivate and set a vision for the future of the firm. What I loved most about working with him is that he put my destiny into numbers to understand what I needed to do to achieve it. The people that worked with an answer quest stayed with Paul because of his ability to see people for who they are, maximize what they do and help them to capitalize on every strength they have. I honestly believe this is why - when he was identifying his exit strategy he was able to sell his practice to the recruiters that were working with him.
I’ve kept in touch with Paul after all of these years and still have the same admiration for him that I did 20 years ago. If I had the opportunity to work with him again, I would do it in a heartbeat.”
Jackie Kibler
CEO Expert EOS Implementer® & Business Coach
“Paul possesses a unique blend of skills and experience making him an ideal coach for owners of independent search and staffing firms aiming to accelerate growth and increase the value of their business leading to a successful lucrative exit at the time of their choosing.
Like every great coach, Paul has a profound understanding of the fundamentals since he traveled the same road you are traveling. But what makes him uniquely qualified to coach is his ability to evaluate the state of your practice and the fit between staff roles, talent, and culture helping owners blend those ingredients into a powerful growth recipe which frees the owner to grow the business without being in the business.
If you are seriously considering taking your business to the next level and/or aim for a well-planned lucrative exit, you should meet Paul. At the very least you'll meet someone who has already traveled the path ahead of you and can guide you along the key GPS coordinates.”
Manny Peñate
Former CEO of Alpha Staffing
“Paul Silitsky is the pure definition of what happens when grit meets vision. I’ve had the opportunity to watch him build his firm from the ground up, starting as a solo recruiter, relying on instinct, relationships, and an unmatched work ethic, and transforming it into a multi-million-dollar, elite executive search firm. That kind of growth doesn’t just happen by chance. It comes from expertise, consistency, accountability, and a relentless commitment to delivering true results, not just empty promises.
What sets Paul apart from others in this industry is that he never loses the hands-on mindset that got him started. Even as his firm grew, he remained deeply invested in every relationship, partnership, and every placement he made. He understands that behind every search is a business trying to grow and his need to help make a significant impact. He treats all aspects of his business with the respect and integrity deserved. If you’re looking for a partner who builds with a true ethical foundation while consistently raising the bar, Paul is your guy.”
Stephen Sternbach
President & CEO, Star Multi Care Holding Corp.
“I worked with Paul for over 10 years at AnswerQuest, and during that time I saw firsthand the leadership and discipline that allowed him to grow the firm from a solo recruiting practice into a successful search business.
Paul has a strong combination of people skills and analytical thinking. He was very intentional about who he hired, held everyone accountable to clear standards, and paid close attention to the details that drive performance. His leadership created a culture where expectations were clear and results mattered.
Because of the solid foundation he built, AnswerQuest grew into a business strong enough for me to eventually purchase from him, something I would not have done without complete confidence in the systems, people, and structure he put in place.
Paul’s leadership, attention to detail, and ability to develop people were key to turning a one-person operation into a firm worth acquiring.”
Noel Glacer
Recruit Group
"I have been working alongside Paul for years. His insights are always sharp, thoughtful, and deeply tailored to the needs of the people he works with. I've seen firsthand how invested he is in helping others succeed."
Hayley Brooks
"An incredible person and such a kind and caring human being. Paul worked with me closely in polishing and further developing my interpersonal skills. He helped me master how to present myself, build my network, and navigate the search process. Throughout our time together, I received many new connections and opportunities. He will customize a strategy in line with your needs and you will greatly benefit from his outstanding knowledge."
Alex Zureikat
"I had the privilege of working with Paul and I'm thrilled with the results. His guidance was both practical and motivating. Paul's deep understanding of professional dynamics and his genuine interest in helping individuals succeed were truly impressive. From our very first conversation, Paul demonstrated an incredible ability to offer targeted advice tailored to my goals. His insights were clear, actionable, and delivered with a passion that inspired me to take immediate steps. He provided the tools, strategies, and confidence needed to navigate my journey effectively."
Samantha Aleman
"Working one on one with Paul is a great experience. You will be amazed at what he can reveal about yourself. He sincerely cares about the people he works with and searches out what would work best for each person. His vast experience makes him incredibly knowledgeable. Paul is a prime example of a hard-working, self-made entrepreneur with an incredible drive for success."
Tracy Powers
"Paul took the time to get to know me as a person and acknowledged my goals in finding the right role. He advised, guided, and took the time to work through challenging questions and how best to approach them. I was very confident in his ability and extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Paul."
Caroline D.
"I have known Paul since 2003 when he hired me to work at his Executive Search firm. Since then, he has been my mentor, inspiration, and role model. Most of the success in my career I owe in part to Paul for recognizing my strengths, weaknesses, and challenges and turning them into passion, vision, and motivation. Paul is that one person that can be a life-changer."
Juliana Gomez
"From our first meeting, I felt such comfort — Paul is a great listener, encouraging, and non-judgmental. Through working with him, he gave me guidance, confidence, and a new perspective on my worth and professional goals. Every session was deeply insightful. With his direction and motivation, I confidently took the necessary steps forward. Paul was an invaluable resource and I highly recommend him."
Monica Lange
"Paul was immensely encouraging, understanding, and genuinely supportive throughout the entire time we worked together. With his help and guidance, and an in-depth analysis of my professional and natural abilities, I was able to approach my search with a clear mind and full perspective, feeling good about my decisions every step of the way. Within a few months, I had an offer from my dream role — and I attribute that tremendously to Paul's support."
Janet Mellor
"Paul is one of the most influential people in my professional life. He taught me not only how to enhance the skills I already had, but also showed me new methods customized to my path. Paul is thoughtful, strategic, and level-headed. I have never met a better listener. He has built organizations with some of the most unique cultures that allow people to grow and create their own successes. He has helped launch the careers of several successful business owners I know personally."
Dan Levine
"Paul is so easy to talk to and sincere about helping professionals tap into their gifts. He takes the time to help you understand why you are wired the way you are and how to play on those strengths. He walked me through a conative assessment and broke down how to apply that information within my work habits and the opportunities I pursue."
Tiffany J
"Paul is the real deal. He uses practical and pragmatic assessments alongside proven processes and systems to help you get to where you want to be. He is a compassionate listener and makes you feel supported. He answers questions concisely, drawing on a wealth of experience. He is rigorous — leaves no stone unturned — but understands that people are not simple objects to be reduced to empirical results. He always considers the whole person. Don't hesitate to work with Paul if you want someone who knows what he's talking about."
Lewis Foggie
"Paul has a quick ability to build a genuine connection. He helped me really focus on making the best decisions by leveraging my natural strengths. I'd recommend his services to anyone looking to grow personally as well as professionally."
Sean Risen
"Paul helps you cut through preconceived notions of what direction will make you successful, and examines what truly are your strengths, intrinsic wants, and personality fit. I am fortunate to have had Paul as a mentor. His suggestions and observations have always been thoroughly thought out and on point — helping to create a better and happier version of me."
Mark Deutsch
"Paul took the time not only to listen and give advice, but to follow up throughout the process. He was able to speak to my strengths in a way that really encouraged me — and gave me support and knowledge I will actively be building on as I move forward."
Anjali
"Paul has an innate gift to guide others toward their best work and best lives. His advice was direct, clear, and easy to implement. He utilizes the best tools to evaluate your inherent strengths and natural talents — so that work becomes less of a struggle and more of an expression of who you are."
Kristina Holland
"Working with Paul has been a growth journey. His guidance and experienced advice have always pointed me in the right direction. Paul shifted the course of my life in a very powerful way. I am in greater alignment with my mission because of his trust, patience, and support."
Irina Vlada
"Paul helped me realize my potential by defining my natural abilities. Using this information, I have been able to significantly decrease frustration by focusing on and leveraging my natural strengths in my current role and in planning my next steps. Thank you, Paul, for taking a genuine interest in my development and helping me gain so much confidence in myself."
Audrey Rewa
"Paul hired me to work at his Executive Search firm many years ago. Until this day, I still reach out to him for guidance and advice. He is a great mentor, listener, and is kind and considerate. I would highly recommend Paul to anyone looking for consulting support to help them reach their full potential."
Simone Blaise
"Paul has been instrumental in helping me realize it IS possible to find a meaningful role suited to one's talents and desires — and that it is unnecessary to settle for paths that provide little satisfaction. In the time we worked together, I gained a stronger, more clearly defined understanding of what strengths I can bring to bear in the right environment. Paul is the experienced sage I had been seeking."
Kyle Baxter
"Working with Paul has been life-changing. My self-awareness, confidence, and success in both my personal and professional life have increased significantly. I would definitely recommend his work to anyone."
Pablo Lavista
"Paul is calm, focused, and thorough — and it's evident he does what he does from the heart. He did an amazing job helping me understand myself through both his insights and his own life experiences. He could clearly articulate aspects of myself hiding in my blind spots. My biggest takeaways were understanding my specific weaknesses and how to address them — and learning to appreciate and leverage my strengths as a benchmark for all future decisions."
N.
"By working through a conative assessment with Paul and having him help me interpret the results, I am able to be laser-focused on what I am looking for in my professional life."
Elizabeth Davis
"Paul took the time to truly listen and get to know the people he worked with. He highlighted their strengths and gave direct, insightful advice. He coached them on how to interview, which gave them confidence and strategic skills. Both are now gainfully employed. I would highly recommend Paul."
Christine Doran
"Paul has great tools and resources and is a wealth of knowledge. He takes an intuitive and humanizing approach to the entire process. He alleviated much of the stress and anxiety I was feeling about a major professional transition. I would highly recommend his services."
Amazanya
"Paul provided insight and guidance that made it exciting to take the next steps. His approach helped me think through HOW I like to work and what roles really play to my strengths. I would describe his work as 50% 'know thyself' and 50% 'here is how to execute an effective search and interview.' Good for anyone starting a new journey or looking to gain more clarity."
Nikki Davis
"Paul has been pivotal in giving direction and helping people understand themselves at a deeper level — encouraging them to move toward their true potential. He is a true professional and really exceptional at what he does."
Jayne Warrilow
"Paul is extremely personable and kind. His methods have been super helpful in revealing the value of my specific skills. His advice has given me more confidence when thinking about the future."
Sara S.
"Paul has done an amazing job helping me identify my strengths as well as areas to grow. His ability to analyze assessments helped me reinforce prior beliefs about myself as well as realize where I could improve. Paul has enabled me to view anything as possible."
Jake Glacer
"Paul was AMAZING — not only in his professional abilities but also as a person. He did a great job in helping me further understand my strengths and weaknesses and gave me a different point of view. I would go back whenever I need guidance, and I know Paul will help me to the best of his ability."
Jakob Warrilow
"Paul is a great mentor who kept me on track and gave me insight into how to navigate a complex search. I was switching industries and had unique requirements which he helped me work through. Paul is professional and always available. I was able to find a great role I would not have landed otherwise."
Sean Kett
"Paul is my go-to person — especially for top-notch advice and guidance in every aspect of planning for the future. Not only is he my first call with questions about my own business, but I refer friends, colleagues, and family directly to Paul. I highly recommend Paul in business and in life."
Stephen Sternbach
"Paul helped me land a senior role and was instrumental in rebuilding my confidence and helping me find new ways to communicate and connect with people at the highest levels. I will always be grateful."
Irasema Gonzalez Vargas
Frequently Asked Questions
What does People Solved do for executive search firms?
People Solved works directly with executive search firm owners to strengthen the people component of their business. We use instinct-based assessments to define the natural DNA required for each role — practice leaders, full-desk recruiters, split-desk recruiters, and researchers — and then evaluate whether your current team is truly operating in the right seats. The result is a more structured, scalable firm where performance becomes predictable rather than dependent on constant founder pressure.
How is this different from a typical recruiting consultant or business coach?
Most consultants advise from the outside. Paul Silitsky spent twenty-five years building, scaling, and exiting an executive search firm from the inside. He understands the specific dynamics of a recruiting firm — producer psychology, practice group structure, business development vs. recruiting roles — because he lived them. The assessments we use go beyond personality and IQ to measure conation: the instinctive way someone takes action. That's what determines whether a person truly belongs in a seat.
Can you help me figure out if my current team is in the right roles?
Yes. A team evaluation is one of the core services we offer. We assess each team member's instinctive DNA, map it against the demands of their current role, and give you a clear picture of where there's alignment — and where there isn't. From there, we work with you on an action plan, which may include role redesign, internal moves, or a more targeted hiring approach going forward—or all of the above.
I want to eventually exit my firm. Can People Solved help with that?
Absolutely — and this is an area where Paul's experience is uniquely valuable. He structured a leveraged buyout in which his own long-tenured practice leaders purchased the firm. That kind of exit is only possible when you've built the right people into the right seats over time. We help firm owners build the internal leadership depth and succession pathways that make an owner-independent firm — and a future exit — actually achievable.
PAUL'S STORY
I started my own executive search firm, AnswerQuest, as a solo recruiter. In my first year, I generated more than $400,000 in placements on my own. The business was working — so it was time to expand. But when I began hiring, I struggled. I hired smart people. Motivated people. Experienced people. Yet one by one, I kept losing them. The problem wasn't leadership, training, or effort. Simply put: I was hiring the wrong people for the wrong roles.
Then I discovered a specific type of assessment that measures something most hiring processes miss entirely: the instinctive way a person takes action. Not personality. Not intelligence. Not talent. The natural, intuitive, born-in "DNA" that determines how someone initiates work, solves problems, and meets challenges. It was a completely different lens — and I was intrigued.
Once I started hiring people whose natural wiring matched the demands of each role inside a recruiting firm, everything changed. By creating a recruiting team structure where people worked within their natural strengths — across business development, recruiting, and research — we built practice groups that scaled rapidly. One team alone grew from $750K to $4 million in recurring revenue within three years. One of my first hires became a million-dollar producer and stayed with the firm for two decades.
Over time, AnswerQuest grew to 35 employees, earning ten consecutive Best Places to Work awards and becoming one of the largest in our class.
Ultimately, I structured a leveraged buyout that allowed my own practice leaders to purchase the firm. This path preserved the culture, rewarded the people who built it, and proved the power of my hiring approach. For a long time, I didn't fully appreciate what we had created; I was too busy running it. But when I stepped back, and then stepped away entirely, the picture came into focus.
Every decision I had made that worked — every team that gelled, every practice that scaled, every producer who stayed for twenty years — came back to one thing: the right person in the right seat. And every decision that didn't work? Same reason, in reverse.
I spent twenty-five years learning this inside one of the most demanding industries there is. I didn't read it in a book. I lived it.
Now I want to give that back to you. Not as a consultant who theorizes about recruiting firms from the outside. But as someone who built one, scaled one, and handed one off to his own employees — and who understands, in his bones, exactly what it takes.
That's why I started People Solved. And it's exactly what I now help others build.
