Ruth Glover’s approach to her subject differs vastly from that of authors who teach the mechanics of a job search. The latter start with principles and create hypothetical characters and situations to illustrate the principles. Ruth Glover interviewed real people who had the courage to make significant changes in their careers. She uses the words, “people in transition” to describe these persons. In her hands the phrase, “people in transition,” is not only a sensitive description of persons who have lost their jobs; it is also a metaphor for people who by taking risks, by being persistent, by believing in themselves, by remaining positive to overcome adversity and build better lives for themselves and their families.

At the end of each chapter, Ruth appends thought provoking questions to assist with introspection. I find this a highly effective technique for the reader.

And what a fascinating gallery of characters people her book: Sue the Survivor, Determined Dan, Abby the Artist, Evolving Ed, Hannah the Helper and fifteen others.These real people, who names have been changed to protect their identities, are drawn from a wide range of backgrounds and strata of life.

If Ruth Glover stopped here she would still be an effective parablist. But she does more. She adds a chapter on the important factors to keep in mind when searching for more satisfaction in your career. The chapter is called “Talent Tool Kits”, where she speaks of the importance of an arresting resume, on how to marketing yourself, how to network, handle an interview, how to negotiate, how to prepare references.

Once you’ve got a job, what is Ruth Glover’s ongoing advice: keep your address book and resume up to date; continue learning new technology; continue to stay connected with people outside your job.

The tone of such a book can easily become “preachy”. It is to Ruth Glover’s credit that she has maintained an easy conversational style, with a number of elegant and arresting phrases thrown in. To give a few examples: “when her husband liked other women better than his wife, she grew several inches taller and threw him out”; “he had four business cards in five years and never changed seats”; “ simultaneously Pam entered a new venture called re-marriage.”

Ruth Glover is particularly qualified to write a book such as this. She runs a company that provides recruiting for Fortune 500 companies besides serving as an outplacement consultant and volunteer for “people in transition”.

For those who are holding a pink slip, this book will point in the direction of a paycheck. For those who hold a job but crave change, it will give courage to take the step that will lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment, both of which give rewards More than a Paycheck.