Jonas Prising
President of the Americas
Manpower Inc., Milwaukee
Industry: Employment services
In the early stages of an economic recovery, business owners should prepare their companies to take advantage of the opportunities that will be presented when business picks up. That includes adding the talent that will be needed when that time comes, according to Jonas Prising, president of the Americas for Milwaukee-based Manpower Inc.
“As an employment services company, Manpower is talking to employers daily about what’s next in this ever-changing world of work. Right now, our conversations are centered on when the economic recovery is going to kick in and at what pace, both of which influence employment growth as well. Most economists say that some job growth will return in six to nine months, and we agree. Given that, we’re advising our clients that now is a golden opportunity to plan for upgrading your talent.
“We saw deep workforce reductions during this recession that reached strong performers, many of whom are still searching for work. As business picks up, employers will add staff, cautiously at first, primarily with temporary staff and consultants, and later with permanent employees. And the first people to get hired will be the standout candidates.
“If you can hire now, do it. If you’re wary about committing to a permanent workforce, consider flexible talent. I may not be an unbiased messenger, but I can tell you that contingent labor truly is a strategic tool that many employers can use to propel their business forward, especially in times of high uncertainty or rapidly changing business needs.
“We’ve managed our way through the recession, and now it’s time to get ready for the recovery. That means planning your future workforce needs and, eventually, hiring the top talent that will build a foundation for growth and success.”
