Tom D. – $10,000 More Than Expected – 2.5 Months In Search

Here is a note to George Steyck, Tom’s Campaign Director. Sometimes, the bottom line can best be described in the client’s own words so here they are.  “George, I just got a verbal offer yesterday, written offer this morning. I am officially “On Board” HURRAH !!!  Their offer beats my own “number” by + $10,000 and I am thrilled! I was also able to negotiate a later start date so that we could get back to a family wedding this week. I talked to my new boss by phone (just now) and I am good to go, as well. And, finally, I am so grateful for your support in my search and being my coach through this entire process.  Tom’s remarks in an email to George say it all:  Dear George: “I am so grateful for your support in my search and being my coach through this entire process.  I am at a loss for words that describe how much it has helped to have you covering my back and leading me through difficult times… Graciously and sincerely you have my thanks. Tom.” 

Now, for the rest of the story.  Tom’s became a client after speaking with Oliver Cornell. Here are Tom’s comments about that phase of his experience with SC&C: “Oliver was extremely reassuring and supportive during my initial “discovery” phase.  Oliver was patient and provided proof that there was value to SCC.  Once I committed to partner with SCC my fears were allayed and I am glad I partnered with such a professional group.”

Tom came to us with a real passion for education specifically corporate education. Marrying business acumen with an ability to develop and deliver educational programs to strengthen the talent pool across disciplines for companies in a variety of industries had been at once challenging and very satisfying. Tom’s expertise and career continued to grow over the course of 20 years, building a “Corporate University” along the way and achieving the position of VP, Training and Development for a medical treatment services provider.

The steady climb in his career ended when Tom was affected by a reduction in force. Recognizing he was facing a tough job market in a narrow field, Tom was happy to work with Oliver Cornell, Senior Vice President of Stewart, Cooper & Coon. Oliver helped Tom express his goals clearly: he wanted to stay in the corporate education field at a Director level or above; he preferred to remain local, though recognized this may not be possible and; he wanted to be employed ASAP. Oliver conveyed the sense of urgency SC&C brings to each client’s campaign and assured Tom that if there was a job with “his name on it,” we would help him find it.

Tom’s campaign launched immediately following the introduction to his Campaign Director, George Stecyk. During their first meeting George was brought up to speed on Tom’s background and search objectives. Tom’s goals were discussed, a plan of action detailed and subsequent tasks and tactics discussed. Tom wanted to get to market quickly, because of the family and financial pressures he was experiencing. He wanted to get through the initial branding and packaging phase quickly so he could get into the market quickly. However, George slowed Tom down a little so as to not compromise the quality of work required in completing his branding process; the process included his campaign worksheets, the source of the messages his writing team would rely on to paint the right picture for the right audience; the online and written support materials; this step is critical to the success of each SC&C client.

Tom’s comments on his job search process and about George Stecyk: “George was a great “coach”.  I really appreciate the personal time and attention.  George motivated me to get the job done.  He was constantly providing positive reinforcement.  When I was off course, he took time to explain better ways to “see” how I could improve.  Most importantly, being unemployed is very lonely and one can easily get absorbed with self-doubt.  George was upbeat and positive; his confidence gave me confidence.  I knew I would get a job because George reassured me that the “ideal job” was out there … I believed George was right, and he was.  I think I got the ideal job for me.  George helped me see to it.”

Tom’s written evaluation of the WebFolio: “Superb!  This was one of the major deliverables that I saw as a differentiator in presenting my background and achievements to prospective employers.  I had been reading about the value of a web page.  The webfolio definitely exceeded my expectations as a tool for prospective employers to examine. By itself, it was a reason to use SCC ~ but, there is a success story that goes with the webfolio.  As I walked into the “final” panel interviews with the decision maker and two high-level executives, my webfolio was displayed on their overhead projection system.  The first 15 minutes of the interview was based around questions and details from achievements presented in the webfolio.  I can’t tell you how confident it made me feel; I knew instantly that I would be able to “Ace” the interview ~ and I did.  The offer followed a few weeks later.”

Nearly two months to the day after “going live,” Tom started his new job. An excellent company, no relocation, better compensation and terrific benefits all rolled into a newly created Director position.

LISTEN TO THE LIVE INTERVIEW WITH TOM