Invest in Your Employees

Ever since the economy took a nose dive resulting in massive layoffs - some 14 million Americans out of work - employees have considered themselves lucky to have a job. But being a layoff survivor can come with a lot of stress and anxiety brought on by the increased workload and uncertainty of the future. Typically, raises and bonuses reflect an employee's value and worth, but they are usually the first to disappear in troubled times. Perhaps those who are gainfully employed should thank their lucky stars, but a smart manager understands that good employees still need to be acknowledged.

A recent Accountemps poll of over 1,400 companies revealed that one in four businesses plan to add subsidized training and education to retain or attract top talent. "Offering training and mentoring opportunities also helps businesses develop a more skilled workforce," says Max Maessmer, Chairman of Accountemps. This type of perk is a cost effective way for companies to say thank you to valued employees. Perks improve morale and productivity, ultimately benefiting the individual and the company. In addition to perks like career development and training seminars, little things like premium parking and gym memberships go a long way in showing the staff that a manager is grateful for their efforts.

In good times and in bad, companies keep close tabs on the cost associated with training and developing staff. But the flip side of that is the cost associated with not building employees' capabilities; the cost of lost business that results from not having the skills to grow a company. Leadership, communication, innovation, and interpersonal skills are fundamental requirements in today's workplace. The best employees, those employees a company wants to retain, seek opportunities to learn and grow in their careers. Companies who view workshops and seminars as a luxury and not as a competitive and strategic necessity are missing the boat. The question is not "what if we train our employees and they leave the company?" the question is, "what if we don't develop our employees and they stay?"

Career development has always been important, but in today's business climate where salaries are frozen and bonuses slashed, employees are looking for a place to work that fosters personal growth. Career development and training has become as important as the compensation package. When employees know that a company believes in their personal growth, they are more likely to stay with that company for a longer period of time. A lower turnover rate translates into a productive, motivated, enthusiastic workforce and that's just as important as investing in equipment and paying the rent.

Presentation skills. Leadership. Public speaking. Sales communications. Develop these crucial talents with Ty Boyd Executive Communications & Coaching. We serve corporations who want to maximize their people - and people who want their careers to soar.