Let’s face it.  There’s a huge reservoir of talent available worldwide, but how do you align the right talent with the work that needs to be done?  That’s the million-dollar question.  While updating my book, “Exporting:  The Definitive Guide to Selling Abroad Profitably,” I realize it’s no easy task to get the right people with the right capabilities to do what needs to be done at the right times at a company.

Despite the vast amount of workers, there’s still a challenge on finding qualified people to meet demand.  Not only that, there’s the issue about quality, because even people who seem to have the right credentials for a job — for example, export compliance manager or technology wizard — they still might not have the actual skills needed to perform or produce effectively.

Companies will continue to struggle with misalignment of the many players involved.  The best solution is to get your processes in place.  In other words, develop a method for recruitment, development and employment that works for your company.  And learn to think outside the box.  Don’t try to place the players into your box.  Rather, listen to the players and find out if they might be a better fit for leading and growing your organization.  Create and cultivate the talent you need.  It’s out there.  You just need to keep your eyes wide open and your ears alert.