The way I see it there is a megatrend, at least in the US, toward remote work. It’s like we’re trying to put our lives online and get better at communication as a society, so that we have more time to pursue multiple interests. I don’t know what effect this is going to have on companies, but I believe this trend is here to stay. This seems much more powerful to me than corporate values in terms of core team or peripheral team, or how closely tethered people are to company mission. What are your thoughts on this?

As far as your advice for recruiters, I think that you’re absolutely right in terms of adding specific value to process and multiple aspects of process. Much of the work of recruiting has been automated and I suspect that trend will also continue. Job posting, resume receipt, resume management, job distribution, etc. are all things that interns can do. However with the automation and simplicity there comes an overwhelming amount of junk. I wonder how we as recruiters will handle this? Will it be more about sifting through piles in the future as information becomes more available, or will it be more about building relationships so that we do not have to sift through piles?

Thanks for the inspiring and thought-provoking post. Kind Regards, Michael

The most profitable and productive organziations today have a tradition of employee development, internal promotion and loyalty to employees. We are swinging full circle – back to what used to be two decades ago.

I actually think the coming decade may be a great one both for employees and for the enterpreneur who wishes to remain independent but provide services. As firms will be smaller they will tap into this independent market for many services they would hire for today.

I understand why people’s tenures at their companies will get much longer in the short term — there are just less alternatives out there and stability will be much more sought after.

What makes you think that this is a long term shift beyond the immediate recession?

I think your article is spot on. Recruitment will undergo another evolution resulting from this economic change. I believe on a whole there will be fewer corporate positions for all types of workers, not just recruiters. This will spur a new wave of small businesses who offer specific niche expertise. With any luck this will also spark innovation and a broad spread of public wealth.

Bill Opal
http://www.flunky4u.com

Great post—it really hits on the future of recruiting and what we all need to be doing during these tough times.

I fall into the second category…laid off and looking for a new opportunity. You reinforced for me that what I am currently doing is the right thing. I’m trying to learn as much as I can about social media and it’s effect on the future of recruiting–it’s so new to many companies, but will be part of every company’s future strategy. I am helping friends with their resumes and providing interviewing tips and attending as many free webinars and classes to learn. Staying optimistic is hard to do, but I agree you need to be patient and find the right position for the long term.
The game is changing and we all need to be ready—

Thanks for your encouraging words!