There are a lot of things that we know are coming. Christmas and Taxes are two. And I knew that James Brown would one day be buried, though it did take longer than one would imagine-- From Chrismas Day till March 10.

But even though I've been hearing about the war for talent for more than 10 years, I was still surprised yesterday when I read in the New York Times that it was finally here. And by here I mean on Earth, not just in New York or the USA.

At Soitech Semiconductor, Human Resources is encouraging candidates to bypass their departments and go directly to the hiring managers to shorten the time to fill.


Soitech is going to schools to encourage students to pursue engineering degrees or any degrees. And yet, with all their efforts, 2007 is going down as the worst year in recruiting history.

EU has a 7.5% unemployment rate and although its not as bad as the US 4.5%, there are still many tactical similarities:

• They are bringing employees out of retirement
• They are offshoring their business
• They are importing their talent

As I think back to the countless presentations I've seen and given on the subject of the War for Talent, the changing demographics, the 2 people leaving for every 1 person coming, it a wonder that I'm surprised.

But it's a little scarier in the world. Good thing James is resting in peace.

Labels: Human Resource, Recruiting, recruitment advertising, war for talent