Many of you understand the word hybrid in a conversation, but how many know some employers are now thinking of tribrids when they hire and retain people.

Tribrids are a current phenomena that characterizes a new level of expectation of employees. It is a subtle change, but if you read some of the job postings or talk to some of my clients in a quiet room where no one is listening, they’ll tell you that in the current state of the market, they are trying to hire people who can replace three people.

It’s a bit ambitious and unrealistic if you ask me, but I talk to candidates who are meeting this level of expectation.

One candidate told me he is differentiating himself as an employee who can be a controller, a business development officer and a proposal writer. I was in disbelief. But what is interesting is that employers are taking him up on his offer. If you still don’t believe me, surf the web and see for yourself.

These expectations may be a transitional phenomenon and, in my opinion, will not likely form a trend. The issue is not whether my prediction is true or not, but what you can do about it. Whether you are a job seeker or currently employed, you need to consider how this new level of expectation will impact you.

If you are a job seeker, this can be a “make lemonade” opportunity because now is the chance to show off your other skills and roles you can take on, and ace the interview. Do what I call an inventory check of your skills. Examine your volunteer activities and even your hobbies. Uncover special hidden talents that may be in demand now.

If you are only have one core skill, this is not a good time for you. A solution may be to go back to school in a formal or informal sense. It is also a good time to relearn some of your rusty skills in a non-threatening environment like volunteering or trying it out on your friends and family first.

If you are employed, now is the time to ask your boss for new projects that in the past you were either too busy, too afraid, or too arrogant to try. Maybe you are a receptionist and also good with numbers. Maybe you are a tradesperson who likes talking to customers. If you ask your boss what you can do to help offload some of his or her pressures, you are securing sustained work for yourself.

If you are employed and refuse to take your head out of the sand – I hope many of your reading are not in this group – be aware that if you’re not proactive, someone will pull your head out of the sand for you.

I am an eternal optimist and I think any time there is a shift or a blip in the marketplace, see it as an opportunity. Review your skills and experiences to see if they are current and meeting expectations. If they are, perhaps you too can join the tribe of the tribrids.

Raymond To is a senior veteran headhunter and senior partner with GO Recruitment.
Visit www.gorecruitment.com. When he’s not helping rapidly growing companies find an edge in the war for talent, Raymond spends his time coaching and advising job seekers who want the same innovative and no-nonsense edge at landing the perfect job. You can e-mail Raymond To at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 604-871-4166.