Last week I got a press release from Fish4 about ‘the Keegan Factor’. I know it's done the rounds by now, but I thought it was a quality bit of PR and worth giving credit for. There's also something likable about Kevin Keegan (I think for me it might be the fact I shared his haircut in the eighties) and, more importantly, I thought it held a useful tip for recruiters.
Here is Fish4's the press release:
Kevin Keegan’s dramatic return to Newcastle United as manager is set to have a significant impact on the UK jobs market. fish4jobs believes that Keegan’s comeback will inspire UK workers to make similarly bold career choices.
fish4jobs has compiled a list of helpful pointers for job hunters considering making ‘jobs comebacks” of their own – which could service as timely advice for Kevin Keegan on his return to top flight football management!
The fish4jobs guide to being a comeback king:
1. Do your homework – you can’t just expect to walk back in through the door after a long time away as if nothing has changed. It’s worth swotting up on how the culture has changed during your years in the jobs wilderness!
2. Be humble – you may have moved on to bigger and better things since you left the company, but there’s no point in bragging about it on your return.
3. Go on a charm offensive – it’s worth bearing in mind that some colleagues might resent you making a return. Those are the ones you need to convince if your second stint is going to be plain sailing. Why not take them out for a pint?
4. Take a trip back in time – it’s easy to look back at your previous jobs through rose-tinted glasses. Before diving in and making a Keegan style comeback, it’s worth taking time out to be honest with yourself. It’s flattering to be invited back, but don’t let emotions get in the way of your better judgement.
5. Draft a career plan, and stick to it! No-one will be impressed if you return to a job simply to wallow in past glories. If you go back, make sure you set yourself clear, distinct career goals. That way, you’ll make sure that you haven’t gone back to ‘graze’, but to achieve new things.
Interesting a blog post from Michael Wright at Idealpeople International tackles (note the pun there!) the same subject from a client perspective in "Boomerangs: Do you consider re-hiring ex-employees?" without ever mentioning Kevin's name.
As a recruiter taking a brief how often do you remember to ask the question "Is there anyone who used to work here that you would consider taking back?" This isn't cheating and you will still deserve your fee if they get the job (you still have to do the leg work of contacting them, briefing them on the role, interviewing them and hopefully managing them through shortlist and offer). It's just part of ensuring you cover every angle to get the best person for the job.
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>fish4jobs believes that Keegan’s comeback will inspire UK workers to make similarly bold career choices.
Wow..! and Wow again!!
I wonder what fish4 are on to get some beliefs like this? Is it legal? I'm not sure... do I want to try it... maybe... would I like to see more of the effects... absolutely...
Charge the glasses!!!
Posted by: Bruce Lewin | 25 January 2008 at 08:51 AM