Subsequently, many are turning to contracting. We analyzed the long-range career plans of a rising star and attempted to match his or her goals with a complementary corporate environment. To forecast a candidate's potential promotions at a company today is pure speculation. We manage for the realistic short term now, and only hope for the long term. For the same reasons, stock options do not have the allure they once had.
Turnover is such that options vested over four years seem outdated.
Once an enticement to hold out to prospective recruits, stock values have proven too volatile to be universally attractive. Rapid corporate growth is very difficult to manage and support, especially with today's headcount and budget allocations. Layoffs still make everyone nervous, but they are so commonplace today that a layoff in itself will not be a motivating factor for a candidate to make a move. Ironically, an employee who recently survived a layoff at his or her current company is often safer staying where he or she is. And more and more, we are hearing from potential recruits that they are unwilling to jump ship since they have found a comfortable schedule , flextime, or telecommuting option at their current employer.