There is an opportunity around every corner if you keep your eyes open and your ear to the ground. And sometimes, if you just let people know what you want, the opportunities will find you. Such is the case with Microsoft and IBM. In the Boston Globe this morning Robert Weisman writes that Microsoft and IBM have undertaken unique initiatives that allow them not only to uncover, but to nurture relationships with the best and brightest startups.
Recognizing that the venture capital community (VC) frequently has the inside track on leading-edge companies, Microsoft and IBM have decided to invest time in providing the VC community with a birds-eye view of their business and technology "roadmaps." Microsoft and IBM argue that the unveiling of their respective roadmaps allow VC´s to see how their portfolio companies might "fit in" with the Microsoft or IBM culture and business plan. This collaboration allows Microsoft and IBM access to potential partners and acquisitions while presenting VC´s with potential exit strategies for their portfolio companies.
At first glance, one might suggest that Microsoft and IBM have designed a process that continuously feeds their business investment pipelines with potential stars, all by simply nurturing the channels that have a direct path to the best opportunity. This lesson should not be lost on the recruitment professional. Presenting a clear and concise employment roadmap - early in the recruitment cycle - that allows potential candidates to compare their roadmap against the employer´s is an efficient and effective way for candidates to determine if they fit or, more importantly, if they want to fit.
As recruitment professionals look to source, screen, select, and nurture the next star candidate it might be prudent to take a page from the venture capital community.Find the right channel ....present your best employment proposition in an honest and forthcoming manner ...and see what opportunities develop.
It is amazing what happens when you open up and... just let people know what you want.
