Q: Is size of firm important? A: Multiple consultants mean a more diverse client base, and a larger network of client contacts. There are many of solo practitioners (recruiters who work alone) in this field. Unless solo practitioner is known throughout country, they will be limited in their effectiveness of placing because they are only one person. With eleven consultants, my firm, FGP International, can cross-sell to our client base across multiple disciplines.

Q: How can you tell if a search firm or consultant performed well in past? A: It’s perfectly all right to ask. Find out what percentage of repeat business (from companies) firm has. If they don’t have an answer, that’s a good indication that it’s not high and that may point to their ineffectiveness.

Q: What is best way to evaluate an individual consultant? A: Ask them their interview to hire ratio. The industry standard is between 4 and 7:1. If number goes higher, then consultant may have an inability to understand job, company, or candidate’s abilities when conducting search, thereby introducing wrong people on wrong position.

Q: For job hunters that may want to entertain idea of relocation, what is best way to evaluate a search firm? A: First, determine your own geographical focus. Then, pinpoint a search firm with a similar focus. Some firms are local and statewide, while others are national and international. A national or international search firm would be desirable, if your geographical preference is broad.

Any guesses as to how many of these skills she is using in her daily life? Sadly enough, ZERO. She tried one exercise I taught her in our first week together and had never repeated it. I thanked her for her honesty and gently explained that I was not attempting to shame her or beat her up. Instead I talked with her about vital difference she could make in her own depression recovery, if she would simply decide to make a whole-hearted commmitment to doing everything in her power towards that end. She re-committed herself. I'm excited to officially "partner" with her in her recovery from depression.

Unfortunately, one trend I see emerging out of this larger cultural movement to enhance life is a LACK OF ACTION. More people today sit back and expect "quick-fix" or "magic bullet." And for those that sit and wait there are at least as many who will prey on them. I receive no less than 500 emails a week promising me moon in a pill, or great riches for no work and so on. You know, you receive same ones I do.

Let me tell you a few of benefits that come when you decide to roll up your sleeves and dig into ol' fashioned hard work.

1. Self Mastery and Personal Competence

2. Empowerment or Personal Power

3. Heightened Level of Commitment

4. Deepening Values

5. Quality Use of Time

6. Greater Self-Respect

7. Increased Motivation

8. Personal Integrity or Honor

9. Pride In Personal Responsibility

10. Enhanced Self-Esteem

11. Stronger Sense of Purpose

12. Positive View of Future

13. Personal Success

14. Personal Recovery from Life's Challenges

Do these qualities sound good to you? Are you willing to work for them?

It's okay to pick low-lying fruit and even courageous to reach out for help when you need it. Stay open to life- enhancing ways that can make life easier for you. The question is, while you hope for a depression cure, a better business opportunity, a lucky scratch-off ticket or an improved partnership, are you also taking personal action to achieve that success today?