In a continuing effort to keep an eye on the ever-evolving workforce — especially as it relates to the flexible workforce and the “new world of work” — we are always on the lookout for current news stories, interesting tidbits and thoughtful commentary. 

This week, we feature:

• Two thoughtful and compelling articles in U.S. News & World Report titled “Larger Temporary Workforce Could Be New Normal” and “Are Employers to Blame for the Skills Gap?”
• An important story in International Business Times that sums up why many smart and successful businesses are turning to the top-tier flexible workforce to achieve their business goals
• An interesting seasonal hiring story in Staffing Industry Analysts as we continue to watch emerging and ongoing workforce trends at all levels

Here’s the latest scoop:

- In two recent U.S. News & World Report stories, important workforce topics are explored including the continued growth and permanence of the contingent workforce and the growing skills gap disconnect.   For more, go to http://money.usnews.com/money/careers/articles/2011/11/17/larger-temporary-workforce-could-be-new-normal  and also http://money.usnews.com/money/careers/articles/2011/11/18/are-employers-to-blame-for-the-skills-gap?PageNr=2

- A timely story by Human Capital Magazine was posted by International Business Times titled “Executive contracting and the market dynamic” outlines why successful companies are employing a continent workforce strategy in order to be more flexible, control costs and manage risk.  To read the complete story, go to http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/243164/20111104/line-executive-contracting.htm

- With the holiday shopping season upon us, it’s interesting to follow seasonal hiring trends given that everything — including seasonal staffing and consumer confidence expectations — can affect other aspects of the economy and workforce.   To read an article titled “News: ‘Tis the Season (to Hire) from Staffing Industry Analysts, visit  http://www.staffingindustry.com/eng/Research-Publications/Publications/CWS-30/November-16-2011-Vol.-3.33/Seasonal-Hiring

Join the conversation…we invite you to share your feedback, insight and experiences about these and other topics having to do with today’s “new world of work.”