Increasing Talent During a Downturn

Matthew Guthridge, John R. McPherson and William J. Wolf discuss how organizations can increase talent during an economic downturn. They touch upon the importance of maintaining training and development programs:

companies cutting jobs should carefully protect training and development programs. These are not only essential to maintaining workplace morale and increasing long-term productivity, but they also give people the skills necessary to carry out redesigned jobs that have greater spans of control. During the last recession International Paper ( IP – news – people ) continued offering classes at its leadership institute by replacing external facilitators with the company’s senior leaders. This approach not only reduced the cost of delivery but also, thanks to the involvement of senior leaders, redirected the content of the leadership program by tying it more closely to decisions and skills affecting the company’s current performance.

Also discussed are strategies to identify the top talent companies should ensure remain. (RN)

Upgrading Talent | Forbes | Matthew Guthridge, John R. McPherson and William J. Wolf | 5 May 2010

Tagged as: Learning and Development, Talent Management