Are You A Hot Property? This Survey Will Tell You.

The economic slump (read: recession) we are currently experiencing has left many with the impression that things are bad all around. The truth is that things are not great in many sectors of the economy–financial services, manufacturing, housing. But, the truth is a multi-faceted thing. While things are glum for many, there are bright spots for many others. We’ll call them The Talented. Employers have scaled back on hiring, but they’ve not stopped recruiting and wooing The Talented. The Talented never go out of season. Even failing and flailing companies are willing to dig deep to attract and retain them.

So who are The Talented? The Talented are those working among us who possess the precise combination of knowledge, skills, experience, character traits, innate talents and, yes, luck at precisely the right time. The Talented inhabit every rung of the career ladder, but are, deservedly, clustered at the management (managers of functions and staff) and executive levels. They are the “cream” so it’s no surprise that they would rise to the top.

Right now, The Talented are comprised of those who possess the knowledge, skills, experience, etc. required to take advantage of business and career opportunities in the fastest growing and evolving industries–industries that include business services, education, medical, computers and technology and nonprofit and green organizations–and those who are positioned to take advantage of the changes occurring in other sectors of the economy. For example, The Talented in the Retail sector are those who possess a better than average knowledge of retailing, a deep understanding of operational controls, sales, marketing and customer service skills, operations experience and experience working through a downturn or reorganization. This sector is in flux since holiday sales disappointed and consumers are scaling back their spending, so those retailers that are hiring are looking for managers and leaders who can help them figure out ways to reposition their offerings, to attract customers, to tighten their belts and identify potential sales opportunities.

All of this may seem like a tall order, but retailers and others are willing to pay a premium for The Talented few. Big-box retailers are offering salaries of $60,000 and up to store managers, six-figures salaries to drugstore pharmacy managers and much more to experienced executives.

While different industries and market sectors require different skills, knowledge and talents, there is a common set of indicators that help determine whether you are a hot property or in need of renovations.
Take the 10-question “Are You A Hot Property?” survey and find out whether you are among The Talented.