While weathering the current storm, recognize that the lockdown the working world is experiencing can lead to opportunity and profitability when economies come back to life. Experts predict that once the economy does reopen, it will rebound quickly with a fast upswing, and small-business owners must be positioned to take advantage of that surge.

This is why it’s so important for companies to think about their talent needs not only for today, but also for when this crisis has passed. Here is some practical advice on what companies can do now on the hiring front to prepare for the future.

1. Think ahead.

It may sound counterintuitive to think about hiring in the middle of a pandemic-induced economic crisis; however, while some people are still sorting out details and adjusting to remote work, there are many extremely talented potential candidates that now have privacy and time to consider their next career moves.

In fact, many industries are currently ramping up their hiring activity, particularly those business sectors that are serving people confined to their homes during statewide shelter-in-place policies. With so many people furloughed and/or laid off and unemployment rates soaring, it’s a great time to hire — before the best talent is scooped up by competitors and while candidates are less likely to counter for higher pay.

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