After working for a small consulting firm for more than two years in the Netherlands, I took a senior analyst/consulting position with a reputable U.S.-based market analyst/consulting firm focused on the information-technology market. Unfortunately, the firm is cutting jobs and ended my contract after only three months. I was happy with the firm and the type of work. Any advice for finding a similar position in the Netherlands?
Yours is a story that's common in today’s tumbling IT market. Perhaps you could approach the firm with another offer. There may be some other department or function in which your skills would fit. Try offering your services for a six-month or one-year period, which wouldn't lock it into a long-term arrangement. A smart company will find ways to hire good people. If you can strike an agreement now, over time, you may be able to extend your contract if both sides are happy later.
If this isn't possible, research the firm's competition in your area and approach the top two companies. Use contacts from your recent jobs to help you get a foot in the door. Once you can arrange a meeting, you'll need to convince these companies how you'll be an asset to them. Don't feel insecure about this recent short-term job. It's a common occurrence in this job market.
Finally, you might choose to view this experience as an opportunity to try something new. Define alternative targets — consider the same type of work but in a different field or a different type of activity in a different field. This may be one of the few times in your life you'll be in a position to make a radical change when you have less to lose.