"A lot of people understand the financial side, but many misunderstand the emotional side of losing a job," Kensington's CEO Rick George says. "David and his team are hands-on. They help people sort through their options, whether they are plant managers or CEOs. He has a passion for his work that you don't often see."
James McGovern of Wheaton, Ill., is one of Blaydes' outplacement clients, who sought his help when he left a Chicago candy company. "I was impressed by David's approach," McGovern says. "He does not try to convince you to do anything. He explains the advantages and the downside of an investment and then asks what you think. He is not chasing the next hot investment. It is all Greek to me, and he is a great interpreter."