Since nearly every company has experienced downsizing, candidates are attracted to companies that have handled layoffs ethically. Ideally, your company has a good history of continuing project funding and not reacting to every stock price fluctuation. When layoffs have occurred, the company has offered good support and severance packages. They are planned to start in the next 6-12 months. Since so many plans fall through, the recruiting company should spotlight projects that have been funded and approved.
Training is budgeted and approved.
Long term career growth potential. An opportunity to do something new and marketable immediately. Stock options vested over four years. Sign-on bonuses appropriate to riskiness of company. Highly visible projects within the company.