ENIt is important for the long-term success of the company that the right people do the right job at the right time. Company goals and strategies are meaningful only if they are implemented by talented and skilled people. The article presents the theoretical challenges of labor force planning and analyzes trends of the labor force of Šiauliai region in 2019. It has been established that in 2019 the supply of professional employees in Šiauliai region will increase; the most valued features of employees will be considered such as: responsibility, positivity, engagement, teamwork ability; next year employees expect to be more appreciated and more motivated; salaries indicators will grow. The article is practically significant for leaders responsible for survival of companies in competitive turbulent business environment. Key words: labor force, human resource management, need for specialists, employee’s skills, changes. [From the publication]