Business 2.0 is running an interesting series of short pieces by business figures. The one that caught our attention: Make Hiring a Top Priority the rule of Steve Ballmer.

I did all the hiring myself for a long time. No one joined Microsoft without my interviewing them and liking them. I made every offer, decided how much to pay them, and closed the deals. I can’t do that anymore, but I still invest a significant amount of time in ensuring that we’re recruiting the best people.

Thats a pretty impressive attitude and commitment. Too often, I hear hiring managers complain about doing the job themselves. They should change their tune and follow the lead of a leader!

By the way did I tell you that Taleo is recruiting? If youre a believer in the power of talent management to drive higher business performance, visit us online at: www.taleo.com/careers