How should a down economy impact recruitment practices?

It shouldn't, really.

What?

Regardless of whether we're in a boom or a recession, the same principles should be exercised. You should be analytical, smart, persistent, aggressive, ethical, sincere, dependable, communicative, and professional. I don't see how the Dow should impact any of those behaviors.

I suppose the one aspect of the job that's most directly impacted by the economy is my methodology for time management. Because there are more candidates in the market than at any time in my career, you have to spend more time and energy weeding through the herd so to speak.

Also, spend a lot more time on the phone with that guy. We all know that guy.

Guy: Yeah, I saw that you posted an ad on dice for a software developer.
Me: Sure am. Are you interested in the position?
Guy: Definitely.
Me: Okay, so tell me about your background?
Guy: Well, I've been working with computers for about 15 years now.
Me: What kind of work have you been doing?
Guy: World of Warcraft, Dungeons and Dragons...
Me: So you play video games, or do you design them?
Guy: Oh, I just play them. But I'm a fast learner.
Me: Look nerd, just because you live in your mom's basement and play computer games doesn't mean you can develop software.
Guy: But this is a java position. I love coffee.
Me: You're an idiot.

I feel the need to bathe after talking to that guy 5 times per day. That example may be slightly hyperbolic, but you'd be surprised how close some unqualified candidates come to reaching this level in their job search. In the past, I'd get resumes from forklift operators for a posted software engineer position. I got baristas trying to become DBAs. I even got ex sandwich artists thinking that their skill with lettuce could make them a great graphic design candidate.

Look, there's nothing wrong with any legal job. If it puts money in your pocket and food on the table, then by definition its respectable. That being said, it's a sad situation when people are so desperate for work that they apply for jobs they're clearly not qualified for just because...well, because it's a job. Really, I empathize with your plight. But the time you spend calling about a job you're not qualified for could be spent polishing up your resume, or calling someone for a job you are qualified for. I know it's hard out there, but by making such specious attempts at outreach, you're making it even harder for yourself. And more importantly, for my brethren in the industry.