Fred Rackovan landed an “ideal” opportunity….company culture, location, role.  We spoke with him shortly after he joined Valley Forge Financial Group as COO.

How did you find your new position, and what brought the opportunity all together for you?

I found my new position through social media – specifically LinkedIn.  While I had utilized LinkedIn in the past, the counselors at Kelleher Associates were the first to educate me about its job search functionality.  This is important, as many of the open positions posted on the site are not advertised anywhere else.

What was provided by Kelleher Associates that added value to you in your search?

First and foremost, I’d say the counselors at Kelleher Associates got me to focus on my new “job” – which was finding a job.  All the service and counsel they provided continually reinforced that primary mission.  Secondly, the Kelleher Associates office gave me a place to go to work.  While this may sound insignificant, it most definitely was not.  I found my job search to be most productive when physically present at the main office – interacting with counselors, making use of reference guides and talking with other clients.  Finally, it was very reassuring knowing that Ed Kelleher, my counselor, was available to talk with me anytime, about any career matter that crossed my mind. 

How accessible were the Kelleher Associates consultants?

The level of service and accessibility of my Kelleher Associates counselor was second to none.  Ed kindly provided me with his home and cell phone numbers and even scheduled phone conferences with me on rare days he was not in the office. 

Describe your coach.

Ed is a consummate professional who has seen it all – the good, the bad and the ugly – through the years.  He provided keen insight into various interview situations, as well as the general job search climate in today’s challenging market.  My comfort level with Ed was outstanding.  I could talk to him about anything due to his consistently trustworthy, insightful and knowledgeable demeanor.

Describe and rate the resources and support available to you at Kelleher Associates.

Kelleher Associates provided me with the kinds of resources I never would have been able to locate on my own, such as access to multiple recruiters, books on the subject of career transition, etc.  From day one, everyone at the firm knew me by name.  This is especially comforting to executives who have lost the familiarity of the work environment.  Everyone at Kelleher Associates made me feel like I was someone special – not just “one of the clients.”

What did you learn during this search process that you will take forward in the future?

I learned that there is light after the darkness, but that it isn’t easy to find.  You must be willing to stay connected and network – both before, during and after your job search.  Realize that networking is a two-way street, and that someday you may be in a position to help a contact who is currently assisting you.