Entry Level Hiring Advisor - May 2010
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Times are Changing...Again
A recent article in the New York Times highlighted the fact that employment is beginning to rise. The author cited notable increases in the number of job postings, which went up 19% in March compared to the same period last year.(1)
At GradStaff, we are excited that our business has increased significantly since the beginning of September 2009. And now, we are noticing that our candidates are receiving multiple job offers. "This is a trend we have not seen in almost two years," commented Nancy Schwartz, Territory Manager in the Minneapolis office. "Because of the economy, clients grew accustomed to taking their time with regard to hiring decisions. Suddenly, we are losing some of the candidates to other opportunities before our clients make a decision." This bodes well for the economy as a whole, but is also a reminder that we need to adapt to change once again. Things are improving and we may now be at the cusp of what many predict will be a labor shortage over the next two decades as the Baby Boom generation retires. [1] Korkki, P.(2010, April 23). Rays of Hope for Job Hunters. The New York Times. |
| Employee Spotlight -
Meet Brian Johnson
 As GradStaff's National Accounts Manager, Brian Johnson really "makes things happen!" In his 5 years with GradStaff he has established strong relationships with clients across the US and is an important asset to our team. Brian spent some time telling us a little about himself -
How did you get connected with GradStaff? I approached GradStaff a little over five years ago as a recent college graduate with a liberal arts degree looking to be placed as a candidate. With little to no professional business experience at the time, I wasn't sure where or how to apply my skills. GradStaff's model gave me the opportunity I was looking for and a chance to grow within the company. What is your role? To make things happen!Really, my role is to help build new relationships throughout the country. In addition, I support several GradStaff offices in building new business. Finally, I mentor new Account Managers and Business Development Specialists. What is your educational background? I have degrees in theatre and English from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. Is this what you thought you would be doing with your career? Not at all. I thought I'd be writing scripts and acting for SNL (Saturday Night Live), and I'm still open to that dream if it ever comes calling. What is your favorite part of the job? Finding great candidates for my clients is very rewarding and helping recent college graduates find the right career opportunity is great, but watching those candidates grow within that company and move into management is priceless. I've been fortunate to see this happen several times in my five year career. What is the biggest challenge? My biggest challenge is in not using so many post-it notes. I currently use them for everything and I have them spread out everywhere in my office. One time I had so many that I had to number and alphabetize them just to keep them in order. What do you do when you are not working? That is a good question... When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my girlfriend Denise and our two dogs Marlo and Beya. I also enjoy pick-up games of basketball and time spent with friends and family. Brian can be reached at bjohnson@gradstaff.com or 612-339-5332, ext 28. |
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Baby Boomers Spur Increase in Retirees
On February 14, 2010, the Cleveland (OH) Business News reported that, according to recently released government statistics, over 2.7 million new beneficiaries (over 7,300 per day) started collecting Social Security benefits in 2009. This was up 20% over 2008.(2)
While the economy forced some of the jobless to claim benefits early, a significant reason for the increase was due to the 9% increase in the number of people now eligible for Social Security. Importantly, 2009 was the first year that any baby boomers were eligible. In total, government statistics show that over 3.4 million baby boomers became eligible for Social Security in 2009. While hard to believe given economic conditions over the past year, the baby boomer retirement trend is expected to accelerate and peak in the next 8-10 years, which may lead to labor shortages in the future. This is because the following generation, Generation X, is half the size. Many companies are implementing a succession planning strategy now by increasing entry-level hiring in order to be ready for the expected demographic change in the U.S. workforce. (2) Pugh, T. (2010, February 14). Unemployment, Baby Boomers Cut into Social Security Surplus. McClatchy-Tribune News Service.
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NACE Tracks Recruiting Costs
Feedback from clients indicates that the recession has caused many to scrutinize these costs and look for ways to reduce expenses and improve flexibility. For example, in lieu of relocation, many companies are looking for at more flexible training techniques so candidates may be hired where the position is located. Further, the need for just-in-time staffing has lead others to move away from reliance on the customary May/June graduation cycle. |
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