Bob Wilson has worked as a consumer products marketing and sales executive as well as a general manager in managed services. He recently accepted a position as the VP of Marketing for the North American division of a Swedish consumer products company.

How did you learn about Kelleher Associates?

I learned of Kelleher entirely by word of mouth at various networking events.

What Kelleher services and concepts proved to be especially valuable in your search?

Within the first 30 days I had an integrated communication platform that included a cover letter, elevator speech, networking profile and resume, all aligned with who I was and what I was looking to secure.  I subsequently built this in to my LinkedIn profile and the response was tremendous.

For each opportunity in which I had an interest, my counselor, Mitch Wienick, provided 2 to 4 contacts directly or indirectly related to the position.  This dramatically increased my probability of success by expanding my knowledge, over other candidates, of the business situation facing the prospective employer.

Mitch and I would talk through the employer’s business situation – what questions to anticipate and how to relate my skills and experience to the interview vetting process.  This was especially valuable in boosting my comfort level and effectiveness during the interviews.

You were sent to a national outplacement company by your former employer before selecting Kelleher. Could you compare and contrast these two experiences and explain why you chose Kelleher?

I knew that I wanted to stay in this geographical area and Kelleher’s reputation for networking support at the senior level is superior.  I needed key contacts at my target companies and Mitch offered them as my networking activity started in earnest.  I knew that in order to be considered a preferred candidate I would need to be connected prior to a senior level position opening being widely known by other candidates.  Kelleher was able to provide access to board, presidents and general managers.  This availability was not part of the repertoire at the other outplacement firm where the emphasis was more on services for middle managers.  I subsequently chose Kelleher at additional expense to me.

What was the most frustrating part of your search and how did you get through the rough patches?

One of the most frustrating aspects occurred prior to my joining Kelleher; specifically, my lack of access to appropriate positions and contacts.  I had a “shotgun” approach wherein I spoke to many people just to get feedback and to convince them of my suitability to the job.  This process was exhausting.  With Kelleher’s integrated communication platform I was able to stop being a  chameleon and become more focused on what I really wanted to do and where I was best suited to do it.

Toward the end of your search you had two attractive offers in hand. How did Kelleher Associates help you manage the process with each potential employer and make the final choice?

Mitch was a great sounding board as we went through the elements of each offer.  He always brought this process back to “who I am”,  “what I want to do”, and “what is important to me”  in both the long and short term.  While I came prepared to our meeting with a list of pros and cons, he helped me see and evaluate the nuances between offers while also considering the whole package, and the elements of each.

Another helpful aspect of Mitch’s expertise was his knowledge of key industry elements and trends.  He helped me replace what could have been only emotional considerations with today’s marketplace realities.

What did you like best about working with Kelleher Associates?

What I liked best was the feeling that I always had a team behind me, with Mitch, as coach playing several different roles.  Other Kelleher staff were immensely helpful.  Karen Tierney, in particular, did a spectacular job with my document preparation.

On the emotional side, it was reassuring to feel not only supported but with direction and encouragement, that I could do this!

What were some of your key learnings during your search process, and what would you recommend to others seeking their next position?

At Kelleher I learned the enormous value in establishing my own personal advisory board - people to advise, counsel, ideate and cheer.  Surround yourself with people who know you well and are able and willing to assist in various aspects of the job search process. With 5 or 6 people playing these roles, you have a corps that really creates a multiplier effect in your search.

Another recommendation I would have for others – consider return on investment.  Overheard at Kelleher:  “If you accelerate your search by 30 days it more than pays for itself.”  I concur.

Would you recommend Kelleher Associates to others and why?

Yes, I would recommend Kelleher highly and without reservation.  I believe that this team, with its focused and disciplined approach and strong network of connections offers the most effective road map for each of their clients to secure the right position.