![]() |
Photo Credit: Working Moms Only |
Call it a recession, depression or
optimistically a “downturn”, devastatingly high levels of unemployment are
making it easier for employers to fill vacancies with qualified applicants. People
who have stable employment count themselves among the fortunate. The days of
“job hopping” appear to have ended, at least for the time being.
Economies are cyclic, making the current
situation temporary. In a year or two, growth will resume and labor market
shortages could be greater than during the last boom. Smart employers are
already preparing for this reality.
Lower turnover and fewer vacancies means
managers are spending less time caught up in the vortex of high speed
recruitment activities. The following activities will help managers fine tune
organizational practices to attract and retain the best people during the
inevitable economic upturn.
·
Survey
and hold discussions with current employees about the strengths and weaknesses
of HR practices. Ask them what should change to make the company attractive to
future employees and a better place to work for current employees.
·
Take
a critical look at orientation practices for new employees. Fix any
shortcomings and remember orientations should last 3 to 6 months, not a day or
two!
·
Increase
development opportunities for existing employees. Employee loyalty improves
when people see employers investing in them. Employees who have a strong sense
of attachment are less likely to leave when job markets improve.
·
Take
a critical look at all written and unwritten HR policies and practices. When
hiring pressures increase, things must be done quickly. Realign HR activities
with “best practices” now while the pressure is off.
·
Look
ahead to potential future direction and future growth of your organization. Begin
now to plan for the human resource infrastructure that will position your
company for the inevitable economic upswing and return to a tight labour
market.
Paula J. MacLean is the best-selling
author of five books on improving human resource practices in the workplace. For
more information, visit her website at www.silvercreekpress.ca.
No comments:
Post a Comment