"Only the Employed Need Apply." According to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal many employers are bypassing the jobless to target those still working, reasoning that those still working are really the top performers. Other strategy guru's are pointing out that because of record layoffs; the job market is actually flooded with qualified applicants and this presents an opportunity to hire talented employees – at a discount - who would not have normally been available.

An economic downturn can present an opportunity to reposition your team for the future. However; both hiring strategies have drawbacks. Those still working at other firms are not guaranteed to be top performers under your corporate culture. And if you pay a salary below market value, your employees may be less satisfied, and you risk a higher turnover. In the long run, this can cost your company a good deal in lost productivity and time hiring and training.

Do you consider your employees one of your most valuable investments? If so, the current economic environment could provide the cover to build a competitive "employee-based" advantage. What are you doing to plan your hiring so that you receive an optimal return on your investment in terms of productivity, customer satisfaction and the satisfaction of your employees?