It’s the start of a new year, new plans, new budgets…where are you planning to invest your company dollars this year? Have you considered training for your employees? In this current economic climate, ensuring the key people in your organization have the skills to carry your business is critical. When cost cutting leads to a reduction in work force, the employees which you will retain need to bring value in the key areas in which their responsibilities lie.
Often, the concern goes beyond budgets to having the investment walk out the door. Zig Ziglar addresses this stating that “the only thing worse than training employees and losing them, is to not train them and keep them.” Lack of training can leave your business in a vulnerable state in which it is no longer functioning at optimum levels.
So what can help with revitalizing and maintaining optimum business levels? Forbes has published a recent Article, Why Employee Development Is Important, Neglected And Can Cost You Talent. In the article, they have outlined three reasons why development planning makes good business sense:
- People care if you take a genuine interest in their future;
- It helps builds loyalty, and loyalty increases productivity; and
- Good, talented people naturally want to advance, and appreciate meaningful support in the process.
This truly reflects that an investment in the development of your employees ignites their desire to invest in your business and this will be seen in their efforts.
Now, beyond budgets and business levels, training may also mitigate potential legal risk and link to other areas which fall under employment standards and human rights. In the case of Lane v. ADGA Group Consultants Inc., a probationary employee was fired after only eight days of work. Usually this is permitted without much risk. It was however determined that the reasons were linked to the employee’s mental disability. The final court order included direction for the employer to retain a qualified consultant at its own cost to train employees, supervisors and managers not just on day to day company processes, but also on the Code and mental health accommodation.
January 27th was Bell Let’s Talk Day, in support of Canadian mental health programs. Take note of why this was observed, and as you review your plans and budgets, consider training as a key area for your employees this year.
Samantha Kirby / Team Lead – Human Resources Services / PEO Canada