Are You Ready For The Recession To Be Over?

I think everyone would agree that the last couple of years have been filled with stress and worry over the recession and we would all like to put these years in our rear-view mirror, but are businesses ready for the end of the recession?

Many companies realize the need for talent-driven innovation to make their companies successful, but it is surprising how many lack strategic plans to hire and retain talent. In a down economy it is typical to tighten budgets and take away benefits, but these companies need to think about investing more of their resources into retaining employees. In the article Is Your Talent At Risk? in InformationWeek it says that one out of every two employees is thinking of leaving their company and 30-40% of those thinking of leaving do leave.

This may not be happening so much now because of the recession, but as the economy gets better, people will start leaving. That means companies will see their talent start to walk out the door. Companies need to understand and implement a talent strategy to help them retain and continue to hire the talent that drives their company and gives them a competitive edge.

This does not always mean giving out bonuses and raises. Sometimes it is as simple as investing the time to find out how to better utilize employees. Companies need to make sure that they know what their employees are capable of and then use the talents of their employees to their advantage. Shape the employees they have by training them and utilizing them in positions they are suited to and give them responsibilities they are willing to take on. These simple changes can make employees feel like they are of worth to the company and can give them pride in the work they do.

Besides raises and bonuses what are some of the things companies you work for or have worked for done to make you feel valued?