[Cliff]

Once he gets his first position he will be on the inside. So many of the jobs are never posted and are filled by knowing someone. Small market here and everybody knows everyone. It will be easier in the future.

I know this doesn't help much but is true.Many jobs go to the market via recruiters. many recruiters have the same positions. However some get an exclusive or some employers only work with certain recruiters. IBM only uses two companies when they fill a position. There is a shortage of good PM's here so the work is there even in the current economy.

It can be difficult breaking into a new area as you don't have any local referees or people who know about positions being filled. It would be the ame no matter where you go.

Having been a PM in the IT business here I fully know the drill here. It is by no means a closed market but tight knit community. Once inside and he makes a few friends Neil won't have an issue in the future. It is his job to work himself out of a job. So looking for a job is never ending and nature of eh business. Someone like Alcatel is big and he may never need go to another organization.

On the other side if you screw up everyone will know. That is life in New Zealand. Not sure if my post helps you but trying to give some encouragement.

Cheers

Cliff