I have a nephew who is an exceptional programmer. He was just recruited from a major US corporation to a French organization looking to expand in the enormous American marketplace. This rather normal process (in the middle of our downturn) reminded me of three things relevant to the Onrec community. First, it was another clear example of how we truly compete globally now for talent. Second, it illustrated the gains we have made. The online tools that were used to create this transaction added productivity (increased speed and lowered costs) into the recruiting process. Third and finally, this all took place in one of the worst economic downturns in decades, and yet one company gained (and one lost) vital talent.

That's right, the "War for Talent" continues. Sure, it takes place in the midst of outplacement headlines, but long-term oriented companies realize that this temporary downturn is an ideal opportunity to upgrade the team. As professionals engaged in utilizing online tools to support this activity, the message is doubly encouraging -- we are adding productivity into the process (increasing speed and lowering costs). What company doesn't want to improve a vital business function, and isn't the contracting part of the business cycle a perfect time to do it? This way, when the economy turns (and it will), organizations will be perfectly positioned to seize market share while their competition is just pulling their heads out of the sand.

One last thing: As a rapidly evolving global profession, it is important that we gather together face to face at least once a year. At Onrec, we've been building what will surely be the "must attend" event of 2009. The Expo is strategically placed at the end of the year in November when we will all hopefully be seeing the early stages of a recovery in the United States. The event will take place in a very central and convenient location, Chicago. Check out the incredible line-up of speakers and topics we have already announced, and keep the dates of Nov 3-4 reserved. More information is available at: www.Onrec.com/expo2009