Past few weeks (prior to) and post the announcement of a new PR firm through a unique development, many an agency head across the country is having sleepless nights. Backed by really deep pockets, both the head honchos at the new firm and couple of head hunters are doing the rounds actively targeting select individuals and interviewing hundreds of candidates across the country. The tearing hurry to put in place a team before the formal launch date is sending the offered numbers to new heights making it irresistible.

Few years back, the market was in a similar tizzy when a new agency was born riding on the back of one of India’s largest business groups. There was palpable excitement, sharing notes on who got offers and what they got? etc. before it ebbed down and it was business as usual.

This kind of targeted and mass head hunting though new to PR industry is here to stay:

- unlike before the industry is heading in new directions and while it took agencies 10-12 years to establish, some of the entities born through such unique developments have taken radically less time to scale and one of the core elements of that business strategy is mass and targeted head hunting mixed with exponential spikes in remuneration

- while the going might be good for those jumping to the new ship, it remains to be seen whether they were able to sustain that growth moving forward over their other agency counterparts or after a year or two it was all back to the same square peg as everyone

- there is also the added risk if one is not capable and just rode the wave, of not being able to find the right offer post the honeymoon at the new entity is over since the price tag is not at all enticing from the point of view of potential employers

The broader question of whether this is healthy for an industry which already has a deep talent issue remains unanswered. Another factor that is conveniently overlooked is that combined with the exodus to corporate communication by those experienced any large scale poaching actually is bleeding agencies of the necessary middle management to deliver what they promise.

In essence, this is a vicious cycle which hurts both sides. Agencies for their part adopt convenient postures. Doing it if the situation demanded it and crying wolf if the boot was on their side. Leading to certain cynicism which am sure is fast spreading.

Moving around to discover one’s true market value or getting the best job fit is a done practice across sectors. And it is the right of each employee. But if it is catalyzed primarily by external factors and money, is it fine? Do share your views. If you would like to do it confidently please feel free to mail prspeak@gmail.com.

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