Mike (Michael) Atkins of Strategic Marketing Ventures, Inc. & Extreme Eagles Institute provides outplacement services. In February 2009 I was contacted by Mr. Atkins informing me of his services. Upon agreement to provide outplacement services he requested $4K payment from me while my previous employer is billed and pays Mr. Atkins direct. Being new to outplacement services I did not know that his is not common practice requesting an advancement of payment. Knowing what I know now I totally understand why he requested the money.

In May 2009 my employer paid Mr. Atkins directly $8K for 60 days of outplacement services. Upon knowledge of full payment I requested my $4K to be returned to me as we agreed. After numerous phone calls and emails in August 2009 I recieved $2K and a letter that the remaining balance would be paid in 30 days. I continued request my repayment per our agreement. In September 2009 I received an email from Mr. Atkins acknowledging his debt owed to me and stated he would pay it as soon as he received work since he had been ill. Then in October 2009 I receive an email stating he had to close his business due to non-payment of accounts receivable from Hunt Scanlon. He advised me that Hunt Scanlon filed for Bankruptcy.

I requested additional information supporting his claim about the Bankruptcy and thus far have not received any additional information.

I personally would have a direct conversation with Mr. Atkins about his company's and would not recommend you pre-pay for any services. From the information he provided me as to his credentials and experience, I would assume such an executive would keep his promises and pay his debts.

He opened a new company, The Atkins Group, in January 2010.