Public Finance Blog

Last night, as we were relaxing in our bedroom, we heard a sound unlike anything we had ever heard so close to our property.  At first, we thought it was an ambulance or fire engine siren right outside of our house; however, as we turned on the lights of our upstairs porch, we were greeted with determined, glistening eyes.  Not one set but at least four sets.  A pack of coyotes had descended onto our backyard from a nearby slope, and we had a lack of preparation for this type of situation. 

The Attack

They were determined and checking on innocent prey that five minutes before an attack would have no idea the coyotes were lying in wait.  That is exactly what happens in our culture when it comes to being subject to a reduction in force and having a lack of preparation for the aftermath. You never see it coming, then when it does, like that small prey, you’re unprepared to defend yourself.  You’re literally told, “Pack your bags. It’s time to move on.”  If you’re lucky enough, you may receive some severance pay to carry you over.  In all likelihood, it’s never enough to sustain you while you search for your next opportunity.

The Unknown

How do you avoid the lack of preparation? The answer is: if it’s not your own company, you have to always be prepared for the unknown.  What that means is to always have an updated resume and any recommendation letters you’ve received over the years in your files.  Always have a list of clients that you have had the opportunity to work with.  Most importantly, you must have any financial records that can back any claims you are making as to previous earnings.

Stay Ready

Lack of preparation can halt your future in more ways than one. It’s the last set of documents that can hold up a new hire starting. Simply having tax returns with W2s is not enough. Sharing accounting runs where you can show what you’ve made from each deal (if you are a producing banker) will go extremely far in the “confirming of your income” step for your new position.  The gist of this blog is that you always have to remain ready for the unknown.  Being proactive in your record keeping and even having ongoing dialogues with recruiters who know your business is all part of the proactive approach. If a pack is circling you to upend your career, you are now ready.

Conclusion

You don’t need a resume to chat with us! If you would like to discuss your options, please reach out for a confidential conversation at 760-477-1284 or email at harlan@hfriedmansearch.com. He can also be reached on LinkedIn. Harlan publishes a blog every Thursday here. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter here, which is a compilation of our weekly blogs, so you never miss one. We have also been mentioned in 2025’s Forbes, click HERE to read more.  

About Harlan Friedman, JD & Founding Member, H. Friedman Search LLC. Harlan is a thirty-year veteran Public Finance Banker turned recruiter who specializes in the placement of all levels Public Finance Bankers, Healthcare Bankers, Municipal Advisors, Compliance Officers, Issuers, and Bond Counsels.