When strategically tied to the organization’s vision, mission, and goals, planning for workforceneeds is a key element of success. HR professionals must provide expertise for managementin deciding whether to aggressively develop current employees for future growthin the organization, hire candidates from the outside, or use alternative staffing methodsto accomplish the work that needs to be done. Understanding the implications of eachapproach allows HR to guide management in making decisions that best suit the organization’sneeds, culture, and values.Identifying candidates who not only have the best KSAs for the job but whose personalgoals, ambitions, and qualities also complement the needs of the organization requires HRprofessionals to be keenly aware of the organization’s strategic direction. Providing opportunitiesto all qualifi ed candidates opens up the labor pool available to the organization andincludes candidates with a great deal to offer who might not have been considered in the past.