Normal is perhaps a word that has never been more in question. Nothing about the current COVID reality is normal and anyone who states that they can tell you what normal will look like on the other side of this thing is merely guessing. The good news is that we have been here before as a nation and a society. That we will adapt and overcome is a statement that I can make with certitude as history has my back. On July 3, 1776, normal was British oppression in the American colonies. By 1788, normal was a nation that stood on its own and protected by a bold new Constitution where liberty was the currency of the land. On April 11th, 1861, normal was half a nation holding their fellow man in slavery. With the Gettysburg Address on November 19th, 1863, normal became the inalienable fact that all men were created equal. On December 6th, 1941, America was a nation at peace. By August of 1945 we emerged from the greatest conflict the world has ever known and we were the indisputable global super power. My fellow Americans, we have been on the other side of normal before and when we emerge, we’ll still be that shining city on a hill. For that to be so, business must reopen and be ready to engage the new normal with speed and intensity. It just so happens I might be able to clear a path for you. If you’ve got a few minutes, I’d like to share with you a few thoughts about recruiting and sourcing in the new normal.
Seize the Initiative
I’ve always believed that whatever you focus on has a fascinating ability to manifest itself in real time. If you focus on problems, then problems tend to pop up all around you because you are looking for them. On the other hand, if you focus on possibilities, the new opportunities begin to emerge. You point out that millions of Americans are now suddenly and abruptly unemployed. This is true and I cannot deny the data. However, I see millions of highly qualified employees looking for work. Let me rephrase that another way.
Millions of employees who were not previously looking for jobs are trying to find you right now. They may have been completely content in their prior jobs, but the entire COVID crisis caused them to reconsider what just happened to them. If you are not actively trying to pick the best from this pool of talent right now, then I can almost guarantee you that your competition is doing that in your stead. There is no written rule that says you have to bring back subpar talent when highly qualified individuals are available. There is no obligation to allow other employers to take back their best staff when you can offer them a better path.
That might seem a little opportunist, but after 27 years as a Marine Corps Officer, I know what the opportunity to seize the initiative looks like. The enlisted Marines had a little saying along the lines of “gear adrift is a gift.” Meaning if you see something left unattended, then there is a certain virtue in “tactically acquiring” that piece of gear. Now, how do I know that aggressive employers are sourcing the pool of unemployed talent right now? Well, perhaps it is because they are asking me to do it for them already. The only question is whether or not you want to get in on the action. Business will start ramping up again soon and it’s a matter of weeks and not months for many sectors. Be a little late or a little slow, and you’ll miss out on prime talent.
I Am Here To Help
Even with business activity curtailed to a great extent over the last month or two, you may feel overwhelmed when it comes to finding the time to put together a list of the highly-qualified talent that is available for re-opening time. I’m see the possibilities and opportunities these challenging times are offering and am ready to help you quickly get back to success and growth. You can reach me at dan@connectingfile.com or (423) 863-3577. Also please follow me on social media at @connectingfile.