Hi Helga, Have you tried Bank of America? We are in talks with them about a number of activities and so far I have found their management down there to be pretty impressive.
In answer to your question about contractor hires, I do know that this seems to be a new trend of sorts. We ourselves have done this. It can be kindofa rent-to-own relationship on both sides that often can convert to full time. I wouldn't shy away from it. But I would establish up front whether there may be potential to consider conversion to full time at some point. You will likely get an answer of either a) no, thats why its contract; or b) yes, given yadayda performance yadayada. The (b) choice is pretty good. Just establish a reasonable timeframe for mutual expectations and jump in. Its always easier to get a job from a job; and I am sure you will prove your worth to them and they'll want to lock you up full time anyways! Good luck - and thanks for being part of the community! Fred

Hi Helga: Thanks for posting to Jobcase! I found a bunch of executive assistant jobs that could be a good fit for you - click here to see them all: http://bit.ly/1SuFsZe Have you tried following up on all the applications you're sending out? Try calling a few days after applying for each job to follow up on your application. It's a good way to show hiring managers you're excited about the job role - plus, you could end up landing an interview out of it!