Ralph Andersen & Associates -- executive recruitment, management, finance, and personnel resources -- primarily serving local government

Frequently Asked Questions
(Professional Resources > Frequently Asked Questions)

Question - What type of searches does Ralph Andersen & Associates conduct?

As a public sector specialty firm, our searches are typically conducted for cities, counties, utility districts, and similar local government entities. This is compatible with the expertise and experience of our search consultants. Our typical searches are for city managers, assistant city managers, department heads, executive directors, police chiefs, fire chiefs, etc.

Question - Who performs searches for Ralph Andersen & Associates?

See "Our Team" under "About our Firm" to review the qualifications of our experienced search consultants.

Question - My résumé doesn't seem to be getting me into the interview group for jobs I've applied for. What can I do?

Question - I get invited for interviews but have not received any job offers. What can I do?

Question - Will Ralph Andersen & Associates help me find a job?

There are firms that take clients, i.e., job seekers, and assist them with employment searches. Our firm is retained by the prospective employer to locate and screen applicants for a particular position. If you need assistance and career guidance, you might consider a firm that represents applicants rather than employers.

Question - I sent in a résumé for a particular position earlier this year. Do I need to send in another one for a job you have advertised now?

Yes, for two important reasons: (1) We put the initiative on the candidate to apply for each specific career opportunity. The decision needs to be yours if you feel you are a good match for the position; and (2) Equally important, you should submit a tailored résumé and cover letter for a position you are seeking. Avoid "cookie cutter" letters and résumés.

Question - How can I find out about jobs listed by Ralph Andersen & Associates?

We seldom advertise in newspapers. You can locate our ads in publications focused in the specific field of study or profession. Examples include: International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and Government Finance Officer's Association (GFOA). Other widely used sources include: Careers in Government and GovtJobs.com. We also advertise in the various Municipal League publications specific to the state or region of the client and the career vacancy. Advertising is also targeted to reach the appropriate audience. Outreach to women and minority candidates is standard in our search practice and includes Latin American Law Enforcement Association (La Ley) and National Forum of Black Public Administrators, and Society of Women Engineers to name a select few.
We also post our current openings online at Career Opportunities.

Question - What are employers looking for in applicants?

For a good discussion of this subject, see "Interviewing Tips and Techniques". To summarize, employers are seeking personal and professional integrity, career stability, personal energy, and a sustained level of achievement in progressively responsible assignments.