Clients´ views

In September 2009 when I decided to accept the severance payment offered by my company I was sure I would find an adequate position quickly.  I had heard from others in the same position who I knew that it could take up to twelve months. I was sure it would be quicker for me – with my CV!

So I gave myself two months “off”, I visited friends I hadn’t seen in a while and did an intensive English course.  In a nutshell, I enjoyed the situation: sleeping in late, no pressure, just doing as I pleased. I applied for one or two jobs but there was zero response.  This didn’t bother me unduly.

As part of my severance package I negotiated an outplacement consultancy and I soon chose KONITZER & TAFEL because I had the feeling I was not just one of many.  The personal aspect I felt between company and client was the decisive factor.

The first forty blind applications I wrote with my consultant brought immediate unexpected success: five interviews – I was delighted and was utterly convinced that by mid-2010 I’d have a new position.

But things worked out differently – not one of the interviews led to ultimate success.  I soon learned about the methods and mechanics of different companies, whether comments like “you’ve got such a great CV we’d love to meet you”, to a company keeping me hanging on with its decision for many months.

This seemed to be the standard for further application activities.  After over 370 applications I can safely say that one requires a high level of tolerance of frustration and very much patience if one applies mainly via blind application letters.  Many companies don’t react to them. Even asking for my documents was not a guarantee for a reply, let alone for an interview. Some companies got in touch many months later – and then I was invited to an interview after all.

My emotions were very up and down.  I had to keep motivating myself and making myself believe that every chance I used could lead to success – that was my plan.  I found it very strenuous. At the beginning my family and friends were able to offer the necessary support but after a while as one disappointment followed the next, the well-meant comments “how are things? Has the company been in touch yet?” started getting on my nerves and I inevitably began to doubt myself.

Here my consultant was helpful too.  He was the constant calming influence during the ups and downs, the one who always reminded me that it was just a matter of time and effort and I would be rewarded with a position.  He was right.

After roughly eighteen months and many negative experiences, I have now got the desired position which suits me and my plans.