The Low Down:
My background; Female in my 40s’… over 15 years Big Pharma experience, (Merck, GSK, Pfizer- 10 plus years), good reputation, I know the business inside and out, was downsized at both GSK and Pfizer, so now unemployed…
Publicis recruiter was great – nice but to the point, wanted bottom-line, i.e.: experience, with what companies, what products, accomplishments, etc… very real and genuine. Informed me at 3 people would be interviewed per position.
The DM seemed nice – laid back, admitted she already has hired two of her friends that she had worked with in the past because “they are good reps and nice people”… straight up told me, 50-60K .19 cents/mile, $500 car allowance… offers need to be made by this Friday, Sept. 9th. Work directly for Publicis DM, no AZ managers, no dinner programs, full medical, dental, vision. $700 per month for breakfast/lunches. $60 per month office supplies, they pay for tolls and parking (I think she mentioned either $75 or up to $100 per month). Made me sell popcorn, it was fun and in a very relaxed atmosphere. All in all a decent package but not what I would expect with what I bring to the table. However, the job market is absolutely awful, like never before awful. So, all in all, it is a very solid opportunity for 12 months. I would take the offer if one should be given. This could be a good “first step” to get back in the work force. I have received unemployment for about 10 months and it is depressing.
Interesting note, on the way to my interview, verifications called me and wanted me to sign a release that a former employer wanted. They emailed me a release-form, I signed and faxed it back to them. So, as I was literally on my way to the interview, when I got a call looking into my back ground before they even interviewed me. So, I know for a fact they are working backgrounds without having even interviewed all candidates. They are moving fast. Interviewed last week, it went very well… I feel I should get an offer but as of yet, I have not been called. There are a lot of good candidates and persons going for these positions. In all fairness, the DM said I would get a call by Friday either from her or the recruiter informing me of their decision as she still had to do interviews this week. Good luck to all and I think they might have another contract coming up. So, even if an offer is not extended but you did a good job and built even a little rapport, it is a good lead for the next contract.
