All of these methods are indicators but they are just pieces of the pie. They need to be used in combination with one another. HR is a very dynamic field. The model that a lot of companies are utilizing is HR as a business partner or consultant. I love the accountability and credibility piece of that.
Recruiters now operate as an extension or arm of the HR department.
Developing specialists in the HR field is a business model that works very well. For instance, we have a technical recruiting manager who recruits technical candidates, and a recruiter who specializes in sales. By developing these areas of expertise, we function as consultants. We are currently installing a resume database so that we may function independently as an internal recruiting firm right within Merrill Corporation.