Since the pandemic, hybrid work and remote models have become a permanent feature of modern working life. According to Arne Adrian, Managing Director of PAWLIK Recruiters and Board Member of the German Association of Management Consultants (BDU), these changes continue to influence the work of recruitment consultants. In 2023, two major trends are set to shape HR consulting:
- More data-driven recruiting
- The search for a new kind of leadership
Arne Adrian elaborates: “In today’s competitive labor market, leveraging digital tools is essential for identifying new talent. At the same time, companies are struggling more than ever to retain and motivate their employees. That’s why we’re focusing on finding a new kind of leader.”
Implementing data-driven recruiting
Digitally managing recruiting efforts is becoming increasingly essential for streamlining processes and reducing costs. Simply counting applications is no longer enough to optimize employer branding or job postings. Data-driven, predictive recruiting provides a solid foundation for identifying where and how to find potential candidates.
Redefining new leadership skills
HR consultancies are placing greater emphasis on skills-based recruiting, focusing on the abilities candidates bring to future roles rather than solely evaluating seamless résumés or academic qualifications. In this context, potential analyses and personality assessments are becoming even more important, serving to enhance diversity and inclusivity within organizations.
As employee loyalty continues to decline, businesses require a new kind of leader – someone who fosters a stronger sense of teamwork, bridges the communication gap with remote employees, and actively supports their professional growth and development.
Five tips for applicants
The latest recruiting trends are reshaping the way candidates are evaluated. Social media has become the top resource for recruiters, so maintaining a strong online presence is crucial. If you’re applying for a management position, be prepared to demonstrate advanced skills needed to lead hybrid teams effectively. To attract the right opportunities, ensure you’re visible in the digital space and actively engaging on career networks.
- Identify key topics and areas of specialization in your field and position yourself as a thought leader by posting relevant content regularly.
- Interact with your professional network by sharing, liking, and commenting on interesting posts at least once a week to stay active and visible.
- Seek endorsements from your network to validate your skills and expertise.
- If you’re applying for a leadership role, emphasize your ability to unite and motivate hybrid teams, even from a distance.
- Demonstrate your capability to reorganize existing processes to enable flexible, effective workflows within hybrid team environments.
Outlook 2023
“While certain sectors may experience minor disruptions, I’m optimistic about the recruitment industry’s prospects for the coming year,” says Arne Adrian, Managing Director of HR consultancy Pawlik Recruiters. “Demographic shifts and the ongoing demand for skilled professionals and new leadership will ensure that 2023 remains a strong year for modern, methodically advanced consultancies to succeed in the market,” adds the board member of the BDU’s HR Association.
Arne Adrian
Arne Adrian is Managing Director of the PAWLIK Group and Managing Director of the HR consultancy PAWLIK Recruiters, which specializes in filling top management positions internationally through scientifically driven personnel diagnostics. At 56, he also leads the Human Resources Association of the Federal Association of German Management Consultants (BDU).
About PAWLIK Group
The PAWLIK Group is a European leader in the sustainable implementation of strategies, putting people at the heart of every initiative. The Group specializes in talent and organizational development, HR consulting, and digital transformation consulting. Founded in 1996 by Joachim Pawlik in Hamburg, the PAWLIK Group now operates with over 400 experienced consultants and employees across 15 international locations, offering global support for clients’ most pressing challenges. Committed to driving digital transformation, the PAWLIK Group continually expands its services through strategic ventures and investments in innovative service providers. Its consulting approach is integrative, systemic, and focused on delivering actionable results.
