The following case studies and commentary by senior consultants in Ayers’ Outplacement Division provide a snapshot of what candidates are finding as the job market continues to open up.

Case study:  After being let go when his investment bank downsized, a senior HR compensation specialist networked his way into an interview at a global pharmaceutical corporation. Although he lacked background in the industry, he was able to demonstrate his ability to understand the organization’s culture, challenges, and marketplace.  A combination of demonstrated skills, a record of achievement, and great chemistry resulted in a successful landing after several rounds of interviews.   

“Finalists tend to have superior skills, so what employers are looking for are qualities that fit the cultures of the organization and group,” says Donna Schwarz.  “The ‘Will they get along with our people?’ issue is paramount.  I have been coaching my candidates to focus on asking the kinds of questions that allow them to demonstrate cultural awareness and also discover specific needs so they can provide examples of accomplishments that address those issues.”

Case study:  The former staff technician at a chemical plant was neither an experienced networker nor a believer in the technique.  While standing in line at Disney World with his family, he began talking with the man behind him.  Using a variation of the 30-Second-Summary technique, he related his past job experiences.  The man offered to forward a resumé to his company’s operations center near Philadelphia.  A round of interviews ensued.  The company waived the full-background check, and the candidate started his new job in June.  

“When he called to inform me of his good fortune, he began by saying, ‘You won’t believe what happened,’” said Tom Klugewicz. “It’s proof that networking does work!”

Case study:   At the outset of his search, a financial services executive decided to run down every opportunity in the U.S. that made sense professionally and personally.  His objective was to receive multiple offers within six months.  Several months later, he networked his way to a retained-search recruiter with a good match to a company in San Diego.  The candidate and his family were treated to an in-depth look at the living and working conditions in southern California.  Meanwhile, networking also got the candidate into a New York-based entertainment software company enjoying extraordinary financial growth.  While the California offer was compelling, he decided on the New York opportunity and joined the senior management team in August.   

“Every job campaign starts with a goal, whether that is to find a job or create choices,” says counselor Jim Shattuck.   “In this case, it came down to choices.  The candidate took quick advantage of an improving job market in the financial services sector and achieved his objective.”  

Candidates are not named to respect their privacy.  To arrange to speak with any of these candidates regarding their job-search experiences, contact Doug O’Connor at doug.oconnor@ayers.com.