Anybody who doesn't believe that the war for talent is back isn't even on the battle field.
Though I personally believe the challenge to locate, recruit, train and retain excellent people will never end, and can only get more complicated, it is a fact that right now, every recruiter I talk with is having a hard time finding and attracting the right people for their jobs.
In a weak moment, we may think that they're all gone--these people don't exist. But we know that can't be true either.
The battle cry is on to seek so-called passive talent. Those elusive superstars too elite to post a resume online--too valuable to be swayed from their current position by mere mortal recruitment efforts.
So, what are some ways to actively go after people who aren't actively looking for you?
- Know WHO you're looking for (not just what).
I know this sounds trite, but 80% of the time, my clients don't know who they want to hire, they only know the problem they want to solve.
80% of the people reading this just skipped that sentence without realizing that I would type it in gold-leaf lettering if that font was installed.
Look around your company at others solving similar problems. Look at your competitors and your business-partners about who solves those problems there. Talk with contractors who (if they're working for you today may have worked for your competitor yesterday) may have some insight about the person you're looking for (not technology, or IP, etc... that can get you in trouble)
The point is, translate the problem you're solving into a personality profile (Of course, it goes without saying that a good personality profile will have nothing to do with race, sex, religion, nationality or creed). - Know WHY You Need This Person
Again, some people will think I am just blabbing the obvious, but I have honestly filled job orders for clients simply because, and without no other reason for the hire than "someone left, and I need to replace them". - Start Looking
Here's where you put on your detective cap and start thinking. I recommend doing this away from your office--on a walk, even just down the street, or in some other relaxed environment. The point is, your regular thinking routine has not located this person yet. You've got to shake it up a little. - What would they do for fun? Where would they go?
- What kind of areas would they live in?
- What life-objectives would they be facing?
For example, would they be at the beginning of their career, the middle or the end? - Consider for yourself people who are in that life-stage... what worries would they have?
- What dreams would they be trying to fulfill?
- If they had kids, how old do you think they'd be?
- What activities would their kids be involved in?
You're probably already thinking about ideas and where these candidates may be living. Now, lace up your shoes, get out there and network like crazy.
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