Jason Monastra

My life and thoughts out on the web

Economic worries and stress about the direction of the country have led a good deal of companies to evaluate their human capital strategy, looking for solutions that are both cost efficient and effective.  Candidates need to understand this and ensure that their expectations are in line with the company’s ability to provide.

Just yesterday I was in a conversation with a talented engineer looking at a contract role for one of our clients.  The expectations of what the company would offer as far as hospitality such as water, the ability to freshen up, an understanding of the trip he just took were not taken into consideration.  As a searching candidate we need to understand the true climate that we are in right now.  From a talent factor, we have always had issues finding great talent.  People with solid skills will always be in demand.  However, with the election, the constant discussion of dismal hope that is sent throughout the media, people have come to believe things are worse than they are.  With that comes a great deal of issues that need to be understood.

First and foremost, companies think there are people looking all over and talent is cheap to find.  WRONG.  The talent people are looking for, strong functional/technical folks that impact environments and provide value are still very hard to find.  The mass layoffs you here typically have a great deal to do with customer service, support, and non-critical functions.  Those people are easy to find and you can get them at a steal. 

Second, taking into consideration number 1 - companies are looking for people that are critical.  Those people have not been let go and are gainfully employed. To attract them, there needs to be suitable reasons, something that draws them from their current home.  It better be good, as people are less likely to move when the market is perceived as it is now.  Companies need to better understand this fact, knowing that good people are still hard to find.  Employers need to make themselves look better by thinking of their candidates when they arrive.

Third, candidates need to understand the learning curve of the employers.  Most employers are slow to adapt.  If they think there is a glut of talent out there, notice of small things is uncommon.  However, when the true market understanding comes in - they will take more notice and realize that each interview is critical.  That takes time and companies are less likely to see the market for what it is till their positions have been open for a year, and they are asking why.

Summary - companies are slow to understand the market place for the most part.  Be understanding and set your expectations as realistic.