Would you pay someone to help you to find a job?

You’ve probably heard of outplacement firms – they’re companies that help people to find a job after they’ve been made redundant. The service is paid for by the former employee and forms part of the redundancy package.

But did you know that you could pay for this service yourself – if you’re looking for a new role?

Some say finding a job is a full-time job and I know the process can be frustrating, and lead to negativity and self-doubt.

Having worked with many people through transitions and career changes, I’m well-placed to give recommendations and can usually tell what is getting in the way.  That’s why I decided to create the service that I’ll tell you about in a minute. But first, let’s have a look at what outplacement firms actually do.

Outplacement consultants will primarily help you prepare for meetings and interviews. You’ll be advised how to sell and market yourself, and, if you need it, you’ll be coached to feel confident and motivated.

Outplacement packages include:

·      CV and cover letter review and feedback

·      LinkedIn advice and best practice

·      Interview technique and feedback

·      One-to-one consulting sessions and support between sessions

·      Introduction to ‘hidden’ job boards* and companies

Once you’re ready to start interviewing, you’ll be introduced to search and selection firms, and to companies within the outplacement firm’s network.

* ‘Hidden’ job boards list roles that aren’t being advertised.

The cost:

We did a bit of research and there’s no straight answer. Outplacement services start at a few hundred pounds (for a diagnostic interview) and go up to £10,000 – and beyond – for unlimited, bespoke, senior-executive packages. And then there’s everything in between.

How to find one:

Personal recommendations are a start. Otherwise, our advice is to be targeted. For example, my researcher was looking at firms that specialised in retail and had experience of working with fashion-buying directors.  

As you can imagine, the services and service varied and, being a polished American, my researcher was definitely looking for the all-round customer experience.

In the end, he spoke to six companies and, to give you an idea of what was on offer, the various packages he discussed included:

·      Unlimited 12-month package with at least 11 face-to-face consultant hours and assistance between sessions £3500 +VAT

·      Mini-programme with 7.5 hours coaching and 3 months’ support £1300 + VAT

·      6/8 face-to-face consultant sessions, indefinite service £2500 +VAT

·      2/3 face-to-face consultancy meetings and 6 months’ support £1395+VAT

·      8 hours support, 4 coaching sessions £2650 +VAT

·      20 hours support, 10 coaching sessions £6595 +VAT

·      4 sessions, 2 workshops £1350 +VAT

·      Senior open-ended programme £7500 +VAT

·      30-day career transition programme £698-£860 +VAT

Tips and recommendations:

If you’re going to use this type of service, do your own research. It’s a personal choice, so find a business and brand that you trust.

You can find information online, but you’ll need to have a proper conversation, like we did to get more detail on cost.

Find out if the company and consultants are used to dealing with people from your sector and with your level of experience.

Ask for feedback and testimonials.

Do a chemistry test with the consultant – if you don’t gel it won’t work.

Check out the consultant’s credentials and experience of managing careers.

Find out if you’re paying more for meeting your consultant in person – if you’re used to working on Skype that could help to reduce the cost.

Have a budget in mind.

Decide if you want short- or long-term support.

Negotiate the fee – we got the feeling that the fees aren’t set in stone.

Pros:

You get dedicated support and access to an expert – that’s really valuable as you go through the process of finding a job.

If you’ve never had to look for a job before you’ll appreciate having help to hand.

The job market and recruitment industry have changed dramatically – the old rules no longer apply. They should know the new ones.

The job market is competitive – interview training gives you an advantage.

You’ll get help and advice with your CV.

If you need it, you can invest in ‘unlimited’ packages.

Cons:

Whilst you might get an introduction for a job, there are no guarantees. The best candidate will win.

It is an expensive option and you’ll probably spend a lot of time trying to ascertain which is the best firm and package for you.

If you’re on a budget, you’ll end up wondering if the more expensive package was better.

What’s the alternative?

Like anyone ‘between’ roles, you need a multi-pronged approach – keeping in contact with your personal, and professional, networks and possibly approaching companies directly.

Career coaching with a difference:

I’m in favour of getting clients prepared for meetings and interviews first, which is why I’ve incorporated this into my new career programme. It’s highly personalised, to help people get interview and new-job ready, plus we work on a plan so there are always targets and a focus. And, if you’re wondering what happened to my researcher, this is the option that he took and it worked for him.

I’m on a mission to help people feel more confident about pitching themselves to companies and recruiters, and my new career programme helps you to do just that and at an accessible price.

So, if you want to find out more about how I work do get in touch.

 Tracy Short & Co offers executive career coaching, recruitment & talent services, and exclusive networking meet-ups.

Tracy has a unique approach to career success – a fresh alternative to traditional career coaching and executive headhunters.

Get in touch to find out how I can help you or your company.