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Partnering with SME companies throughout East Anglia, Michelle Denny Recruitment is a recruitment agency which specialises in personalised recruitment consultancy services in Norfolk and Suffolk to help you discover that elusive new member of staff at a budget that suits you.

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With different campaign options to meet your requirements and innovative marketing strategies to captivate worthy candidates, we'll present you with a refreshing, no-fuss approach to recruitment. Whether you need a comprehensive recruitment drive with full support, or a simple campaign to find you candidates to review in-house, we'll work with you as an extension of your team, to understand your business and the people within it. 

Clients

THIS WAY TO HIRE

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We'll introduce you to companies with job opportunities across Norfolk, Suffolk and beyond that share your values and understand your career aspirations so you can feel confident in your job search. With guidance, support, constructive feedback and consistent communication as standard throughout our approach, Michelle Denny Recruitment Consultancy looks beyond your CV to discover what makes you, you!

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With a clear direction, straightforward application process and ongoing recommendations, we’ll provide you with the ultimate match-making service to help you find the right job, in the right company, with the right team. Learn more, view our current vacancies and upload your CV to register for upcoming roles too.

Candidates

THIS WAY TO A NEW JOB

Talent Shortages: Why They Happen and How to Overcome Them (And You Can Fill Those Empty Chairs)

  • Michelle Denny
  • May 6
  • 3 min read

Understanding the Market and Setting Expectations


As we begin the second segment of our client blog series, Understanding the Market and Setting Expectations, we’re shifting our focus from workforce planning to the reality of today's recruitment landscape. And there’s one challenge that comes up again and again:


“We just can’t find the right people.”


Sound familiar?


Talent shortages have become one of the most talked-about recruitment issues in recent years. But while the frustration is real, the reasons behind it,  and the solutions, may not be what you expect.



Why Talent Shortages Really Happen:


First, let’s be clear: talent isn’t gone. It’s just not showing up in the same way it used to. Employers aren’t necessarily facing an empty market, but rather one that looks and behaves differently.


Here are some of the driving factors:


1. The Candidate Landscape Has Changed

We’re in a post-pandemic, post-Brexit, tech-evolving world. Many professionals have moved sectors, relocated, reassessed priorities, or opted for more flexibility. That’s created gaps in traditionally full pipelines.


2. The Role Specs Are Often Too Rigid

Some companies still write job descriptions as if it’s 2015: long lists of experience-based demands with little room for emerging talent or transferable skillsets. The reality? Perfect matches are rare. And by the time you find one, they’re probably gone.


3. Market Expectations Have Shifted

Candidates today are more value-driven, purpose-focused, and selective about where they work. Salary is still important, but so is hybrid flexibility, culture, development, and wellbeing.


Skills-Based Hiring: More Than a Buzzword


One of the most effective ways to tackle talent shortages is by changing how we define "talent" in the first place.


We’re moving into a world where skills matter more than qualifications. The ability to solve problems, collaborate well, and adapt to new challenges is often a stronger predictor of success than a perfect CV.


“Not everyone who excels in exams is destined for greatness.

True talent shines in the way people deliver real results by turning knowledge into meaningful impact.”


This is the direction the market is heading. And businesses that embrace skills-first thinking now will be better prepared for what comes next.


So what are the skills we should really be hiring for?


The Skills That Future-Proof Teams


Rather than narrowing the pool by focusing solely on past roles or qualifications, consider what potential looks like. Here are five areas we believe every business should be prioritising in their talent pipeline:


1. Digital Fluency

It’s no longer just about being tech-savvy. From data handling to AI-powered tools, digital literacy is fast becoming a non-negotiable in most industries. Those who are confident navigating and leveraging tech will help businesses stay agile.


2. Emotional Intelligence

As automation increases, human connection becomes even more critical. The ability to lead with empathy, manage relationships, and understand nuance will set great candidates apart.


3. Adaptability

Markets shift, priorities evolve, tech updates. The most valuable team members will be those who stay open to change and thrive outside their comfort zone.


4. Critical Thinking

n a world of data and automation, we need people who can interpret, question, and solve, not just follow process. Analytical thinkers help businesses move forward intelligently.


5. Creativity

Innovation comes from people who think differently. Whether it’s streamlining operations or developing new solutions, creative problem-solvers bring an edge that can’t be replicated by machines.


Why This Matters Now


If you’re struggling to hire, ask yourself...


- Are we evaluating potential or just past experience?



- Are we looking for trainable qualities, or ticking off a list?



- Are we offering flexibility on the how, so we can get the who?





At MDR Consultancy, this is where we work best, not just to fill roles, but to help you look at hiring in a new way. We don’t just send CVs. We analyse market conditions, advise on strategy, and partner with you to shape roles that can actually be filled.


Practical Tips to Overcome Talent Gaps


- Rethink your job specs.

Focus on outcomes and key competencies, not just titles and years.


- Stay open to potential.

Someone with 80 percent of what you need and a hunger to grow is often the best long-term hire.


- Benchmark realistically.

We can guide you on current salary, flexibility, and benefits expectations in your market.


- Work with MDR who advise, not just act. Our strategic partnership delivers better hires, faster.


Talent shortages are real, but they’re not insurmountable.


The key is to understand the shift; set clear expectations, and be open to changing

how you hire.


If you’d like a fresh perspective on a role, or just want to understand how the market’s moving, we’re here to help. No pressure. Just a genuine conversation.


Get in touch at hello@dennyrecruits.com 



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