Connecting the Employment Disconnect: The hunt is on for a new position. Whether you are an employer looking to fill an open position or a job seeker looking to make your next career move, one thing is for sure: finding the right fit is no easy process.

Creative industry employers in the Philadelphia Region, from web design to IT to communication companies, have told Innovation Philadelphia that they have a hard time finding skilled, creative talent. Creative professionals, who are seeking jobs within the creative industries, have said they cannot find jobs in the region. So where is the disconnect?

There was an overwhelming response from the employers participating in the Innovation Forum that personal references and existing employee referrals are the primary methods they use to identify new talent.

Placing ads and enlisting help from recruiters were not the most desirable ways to fill jobs. “We cannot afford to make mistakes. Placing ads on general job websites leaves too much room for our firm to hire someone who is not a good a fit,” said one employer at the Innovation Forum

It is not difficult for employers to find those individuals who have the textbook and technical skills. “The challenge is finding the employee with the technical skills and soft skills. Interpersonal skills and the appropriate personality that fits in with my current employees and with my clients are vital to our success,” said an employer at a recent Innovation Forum.

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