By Laura Schmitz, VP of Operations at Aqore Staffing Software
In uncertain markets, it’s natural to feel the urge to hunker down, focus inward, and wait for conditions to stabilize. But if the 2007-2008 financial crisis taught us anything in the staffing industry, it’s that isolation is not the answer. Now, more than ever, staffing professionals should embrace networking — both locally and on a national level — to stay ahead, expand opportunities, and prevent tunnel vision.
The danger of tunnel vision
When business becomes uncertain, it’s easy to rely solely on internal strategies, familiar clients, and the comfort of existing operations. But this approach often leads to stagnation. The staffing industry thrives on connections, and limiting engagement can mean missing out on crucial insights, market shifts, and new business opportunities.
Networking — whether it’s staffing association meetings and events, local chamber events, or national conferences — opens doors to fresh perspectives. It allows you to see beyond your immediate challenges and gain strategic insights from peers who are facing similar hurdles. You don’t know what you don’t know until you step outside your bubble.
Lessons from 2007-2008: the power of relationships
Think back to the last major economic downturn. Firms that stayed connected — whether through industry groups, associations, or client conversations — were the ones that rebounded the fastest. They had their pulse on the market, adapted quickly, and found ways to pivot their services to meet shifting needs.
During that period, staffing companies that expanded their networks identified emerging job markets, built stronger talent pipelines, and positioned themselves for the eventual recovery. Those that retreated found themselves playing catch-up when the market turned around.
The role of local and national networking
Networking isn’t just about attending big conferences or collecting business cards — it’s about actively participating in the staffing ecosystem.
- Local networking: Engaging with your local staffing association, local business groups, workforce development boards, and economic forums keeps you connected to regional hiring trends, potential legislation that you’ll need to prepare for, and changes in workforce demographics. It also strengthens partnerships with local businesses that may need staffing solutions but aren’t yet familiar with what you offer.
- National Engagement: Industry organizations like ASA (American Staffing Association) and SIA (Staffing Industry Analysts) provide a broader perspective, helping you understand trends beyond your immediate market. These connections offer access to national best practices, regulatory updates, and potential partnerships that can position your firm for long-term success.
Thriving in uncertain times
Rather than retreating in times of uncertainty, now is the moment to be visible, engaged, and proactive. Attend industry events, join discussion panels, connect with fellow professionals, and seek out conversations that challenge your current way of thinking.
The staffing industry is built on relationships. And in a challenging market, the firms that double down on those relationships — rather than retreating — will be the ones best positioned to navigate uncertainty and emerge stronger.
So, if you’ve been hesitating to network, consider this your reminder: step out, connect, and lean into the industry. Your future success and that of the industry as a whole depends on it.
Laura Schmitz is a strategic leader in staffing technology, driving innovation in her role as VP of Operations with Aqore Staffing Software. She excels in software transition, client success, and process optimization. Passionate about team growth and industry impact, she shares expertise at conferences and thrives on delivering results while building strong partnerships.
