As a middle man, I hear the pros and cons to each side of the recruiting equation. Employers say they cannot find talent and candidates say they cannot find jobs.

Certainly connections are not being made because of generational differences in communicating, but others are not being made because of beliefs and actions unique to the region. It is frustrating to see young people who want to stay and make a good effort, but ultimately move to larger regions where the job search appears to be much easier.

Below are two examples of recent graduates who left the region. Read their response.

"I accepted a position for a financial firm in Richmond. The companies I applied with in the NRV / Roanoke never responded to my resume or follow ups."  — M.C.

"About a month ago, I landed a job in Washington, D.C. and have since re-located. I must honestly say that it was very difficult for someone of my limited experience to find employment in Roanoke, as it has been for many friends of mine. I do plan on returning to the area at some point in the future should an opening arise…". M.R.

Are companies really doing all they can to employ younger talent and therefore, build a larger talent pool for future years when Boomers are no longer in the workforce?

Do recent college graduates actually have skill sets that local employers desire or is the college degree the new high school degree?

What can be done to take better advantage of the awesome talent the region is producing for OTHER REGION’s workforces and OTHER STATE’s workforce?

Please provide your feedback.