5 Major Takeaways from SIA Executive Forum

By: Lenore Convery, SVP, Sales + Marketing at ClearEdge Marketing

Back in March, many of us attended SIA Executive Forum in Las Vegas. The prevailing question on everyone’s mind was about growth. While optimism for a bounce-back in the industry as we get further into the year is high, the precise timing remains uncertain—potentially as early as Q2 or possibly in the second half of the year. This emphasizes the crucial need for agility and strategic planning for both our business and yours.

Now that a few months have passed, we are eager to revisit some major highlights and takeaways:

1. The Sales Shift

Traditionally, recruiting posed the greatest challenge for staffing firms. However, Barry Asin, Chief Analyst at SIA, highlighted a surprising shift: sales now surpasses recruiting in difficulty. Conversations with many staffing firms underscored the necessity for strong alignment between marketing and sales to swiftly close deals.

2. Navigating Acquisitions

With mergers and acquisitions gaining momentum this year, discussions revolving around positioning and branding were central. Having navigated several mergers and acquisitions alongside our clients, we’ve learned that seeking an external perspective on marketing early in the process can significantly impact outcomes.

3. Investing in Leadership

There’s a noticeable surge in demand for leadership development programs, as emphasized by several keynote speakers. Professional development is increasingly important and crucial to retaining top talent in today’s competitive landscape.

4. Staying Ahead of the AI Curve

Artificial intelligence (AI) remains a hot topic, with a dedicated conference track showcasing its growing integration across the industry. As your marketing partner, we’re committed to staying current on trends and can assist you in strategically implementing AI solutions to enhance your processes.

5. Talent Acquisition Landscape

The demand for healthcare, IT, and light industrial staffing, which collectively account for 75% of all staffing revenue, was underscored at the conference. This offers a strategic opportunity for the entire staffing ecosystem, whether you’re a staffing firm seeking market dominance or an HR Tech provider customizing solutions to meet industry demand.

Now, many of us are reevaluating our goals and strategies to ensure alignment with the market. If you are seeking a growth partner to elevate your business to the next level, please visit us at meetclearedge.com.