A new multi-generational workforce poses both challenges and opportunities for today’s employer. An increase in average retirement age and life expectancy have created an unprecedented five generations coexisting in the modern workforce, also known as the “5G Workforce.” Each generation brings to the workplace a different set of character traits, behavioral patterns and value systems. These differing perceptions and values are a potential source of conflict, frustration and misunderstanding. Unresolved conflict among employees decreases productivity, morale and motivation. Employers must understand generational differences and use this understanding to manage generational diversity. Once properly managed, an employer can capitalize on the unique strengths of this diverse workforce. Successful management of the 5G workforce begins with an understanding of not only the differences among generations, but the environment that shaped those differences. The five generations of the modern workforce include: • Traditionalists: Employees born 1945 and before… [Read More]
5 Simple Steps to Writing an Effective Job Description
A job description is an essential tool to attract quality talent. By carefully tailoring the fundamental elements of a job description, you can effectively target the candidate pool you are seeking. Job Title In creating a job description, your first step is to give the position a job title. Although a job title may only be a few words, it plays a crucial role in the purpose of a job description. The job title is the gateway to the talent pool you seek. An effective job title should: reflect the nature and duties of the job indicate skill level in relation to other jobs within the company be consistent with industry standards and other similar jobs so that it can be accessed by online job seekers An example of a good job title is “Senior Nurse Recruiter.” A candidate understands that this is a position… [Read More]
Long term strategy
In an interesting piece on Strategic Sourcing, that is, a specific plan of action regarding the procurement and hiring of top talent, a Talent Acquisition Manager poses the question: Who is better to Effect the Toughest Changes in Strategic Sourcing? Your Permanent Team or Third Party Contractors? (They deduce that the contractor/consultation model allows for greater opportunity for change within your organization by allowing for a fresh perspective and minimizing the personal and political hurdles that can stop an organization from moving away from the status quo. If we apply this same line of thinking to the larger context of Contingent Workforce Management, it may be time to ask: When is the last time your enterprise truly thought about the long term goals regarding your Contingent Workers? And are small steps being taken daily to effectively embrace that strategy? As we’ve already discussed, change is… [Read More]
