Alec Brownstein, a creative professional in New York City, recently landed a new job by implementing what he calls “The Google Experiment.” Taking advantage of one of this decade’s biggest internet trends- “Googling” your own name-  Alec bought a few Google Ad Words under the names of top creative directors in the marketing and advertising industries. After spending just $6 on the Ad Words, which directed the creative directors to his online portfolio, Alec was granted four interviews and offered two new jobs. He has chosen to work with creative firm Y&R.

We think this was a genius idea, but one that would probably only work in an open-minded industry such as the creative industry. Regardless, we are also sure that copy-cat cases of this “experiment” are sure to follow. What do you think?

Here is Alec’s self-made video summarizing his experiment:

  Stephanie Urban
  Interactive Resources

Today’s economic realities have created a “buyer’s” job market can be tricky to navigate.  Employers want to hire executives who can effectively perform the functions of a C-Level position.  However, employers are also wary of hiring someone who has been downsized or laid off, and who have expensive salary requirements.

As a retained recruiter, one of the questions I am frequently asked by potential C-level candidates is, “Why wouldn’t the company I recently interviewed with hire me at a lower salary than I previously made if I bring such great skills to the table?”  The answer is easy.  Companies are reluctant to hire talent at a lower salary because they fear the candidate will leave them as soon as the market turns around.  Decision makers may think you will eventually get bored, or worse, take their job.  Here are some practical tips to address this issue:

• During the interview, make sure you are prepared to explain what it is about the position that makes it so desirable to you besides compensation (picking up skills or experiences you have not previously had, rapid company growth that would allow for promotions in the future, the companies reputation in the industry, etc.)
• Let them know you will work hard at the new job, and preempt the argument by letting them know towards the beginning of the interview that you will not leave for a higher paying position as the market rebounds, based on your other motivations for seeking the position.
• Explain to your prospective employer that you will bring a short learning curve to the table.  You will be able to produce from day one.
• During the interview, talk about your accomplishments, and don’t be shy about discussing how you improved ROI, or saved your previous employer money.  This will motivate the employer to dig deeper and come up with a compensation package that is more commensurate with your actual worth.
• Let the employer know that although you have a lot of experience, you will also be taking on new responsibilities that will make the job both challenging and rewarding.
• At some point in the interview, interject that you are a team player and have glowing references from your previous bosses.  Make a point to mention how well you get along with co-workers, and have an example of a successful project that you completed based on teamwork. 
• Make sure to convey that you have always been loyal to the people you report to, it is in your DNA.  Subtly reference an example of how you made your former boss look good.
• If the employer persists that you have too much skill for the position, ask them to describe the perfect candidate.  They will most likely be describing you, and you can play to this in the interview.
• At the end of the interview, ask for the job.

Follow these tips, and it will help to defuse any preconceived notions of why the employer should not hire you.  On the flip side, I have some clients who are attracted to candidates who bring lots of experience to the table, and who have traditionally made more than the employer is offering.  Although rare, in some cases the employer may feel they are getting a deal.

  Dwight Scott
  Director- Retained Search

Resigning from a job is very emotional, no matter how long you have been with a company. The best advice I can give anyone is resign immediatly, do not wait for a perfect time, you will be so much happier once you have given notice. Your mind will be at ease, you can focus on preparing for your new role! 

Some employers may pressure you to tell them where you have accepted. You have every right to keep that information confidential – and you should! Just stay professional, inform them that once you are settled you will send them an email with your updated contact information.

When giving notice do not go into too much detailed information. You may feel that it is necessary, but it really is not. It is important to tell them that you enjoyed your time with the company, you have learned a great deal but you feel this is the right decision and you are very happy with it. 

When giving notice you should try to speak to your immediate supervisor, if they are not available either speak to their supervisor or human resources. It is also perfectly acceptable to give notice via a phone call or an email.

At the point where you have accepted another offer, your loyalty should be to your new employer. Whatever requests your current company asks of you it is very important to remember not to agree to anything that could ruffle feathers with your new company. An example is your current company asking for you to stay longer then the standard notice period. Remember people give notice every day and companies survive.

When you resign, typically one of three things can occur. One is that the company congratulates you on your new role, thanks  you for all your time and wishes you luck on the new chapter of your life. They may even offer to throw you a going away party. That would be considered the best case scenerio! The second thing that can happen is that they can become angry with you, make you clear out your desk immeditely, and escort you put of the building. That can be hurtful, but remember that you have a great job waiting for you on the other side of the door. The third thing that can happen is that your boss will try to counter offer you. It is never in your long term best interest to accept a counter offer. Staying with a company once they know you are looking is a bad idea for a few reasons. They can offer you the moon and the stars, but the reality is nothing will really change. Also they are likely just keep you on long enough to find a replacement. At that point you will be out of two jobs! Once you make a decision to give notice, stick with it no matter what comes up. Be excited about what your future holds!

  Samara  Appelbaum Chopra
  EXECUTIVE RECRUITER – Healthcare