I can see clearly now the rain is gone...

I have found that approach and pursuit of clients has to be done with their needs first and foremost in my mind. And, actually, this approach is not limited to current or potential clients but also past. The economic needs of my firm or me, personally, cannot be at the forefront of an initial conversation or what interested parties first learn. I can keep a capitalistic mindset behind the scenes so that the firm’s financial needs are met, but socialism must be how I apply my craft – fulfilling the needs of all: our clients and candidates. Hiring the right individuals is a delicate business and without lines of open communication with both client and candidates, without both of these parties feeling I am putting them first, without the good of all my first thought, I will not be successful and neither will my firm. So, it has to be that tedious balance of securing the capital necessary and meeting the needs of all parties involved.

Recruiting is a difficult industry; this work isn’t for everyone. There is a lot of rejection and also a considerable amount of "talk" that recruiters face. The name, Head Hunter, has suffered long due to the negative connotation attached to it, much like that of a used-car salesman. More respect is being gained as the value of our service screams for recognition. The challenges we face today will definitely affect tomorrow. The increased use of the internet and companies hiring in-house recruiters to minimize the recruitment costs will continue to affect the revenue stream, in particular for little-known, small firms.

As addressed in Recruiter Guy's blog, what I see in the future is a need for big companies to invest time and money in the employees they do have. Investing in retention efforts and management training is imperative. It costs a company 2 ½ times an employee’s salary to replace that employee. When all is said and done, it is never too late to invest in the people and prevent markets where people hop from job to job. It is a little like police work in that the more effective I am at my job; the greater the chance is that my job will be eliminated because of lack of need. I don’t think that is a worry right now…
With companies spending $58 billion in sourcing and recruitment efforts? Yep, my job and your job is secure.