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Talent Management

A Useful Guide to Employee Onboarding Best Practices

New employee onboarding is one of the most important tasks an organization can undertake. Done well, it sets the stage for a smooth transition into the company and helps the employee become productive as quickly as possible. In this article, we are going to convince you about the importance of a good onboarding process within your organization and go through some employee onboarding best practices.  

What Is Employee Onboarding?  

Employee onboarding or simply onboarding is the process of integrating new employees into your organization. This process typically includes completing the necessary paperwork, providing training, and meeting with key team members. The ultimate goal of employee onboarding is to ensure that the new employee has a positive experience and get the new employee up to speed on the company, its culture, and its role as quickly as possible.  

The onboarding process is typically managed by the human resources department. However, other departments may also be involved sometimes, such as the marketing or operations departments.  

Why Is It Important to Embrace Good Employee Onboarding Process?  

Employee onboarding is one of the most critical processes in any organization, no matter the size. It’s the time when new employees learn about the company, their role within it, and what is expected of them. Good employee onboarding processes can help businesses to:  

Ensures a Smooth Transition  

The onboarding process is a meaningful way to ensure that there is a smooth transition for the new employee. By having a well-organized onboarding plan in place, you can help the new employees feel comfortable and confident in their new role. This will help newcomers get up to speed quickly and be productive from the start.  

Reduce Employee Turnover  

Employee turnover can be costly for any business. By implementing a good onboarding process, you can help to reduce employee turnover rates and keep your staff members happy and productive.  

Improve Employee Engagement  

Employee engagement is important since engaged employees are more productive and are more likely to stay with your company. Onboarding can help to improve employee engagement by providing a clear path for the new employees to follow and by helping them to feel integrated into the company culture.  

Reduce the Time It Takes for a New Employee to Be Productive  

Onboarding can help to reduce the time it takes for a new employee to be productive. By providing training and orientation, you can help the new employee to learn the ropes quickly and start contributing to the company sooner.  

Help New Employees Understand Company Goals and Values  

One of the key goals of onboarding is to help new employees understand the company’s goals and values. By providing orientation and training, you can help the new employee to get up to speed on what is important to the company and how they fit into the bigger picture.  

Help New Employees Build Relationships with Coworkers Easier  

Building relationships with coworkers is a crucial part of being successful at work. Onboarding can help to foster these relationships by providing social activities and opportunities for new employees to get to know their coworkers.  

Reduce Stress Levels  

Starting a new job can be stressful. Onboarding can help reduce stress levels by providing orientation and training, which will help the new employee feel more prepared and confident in their new role.  

Fulfill Compliance Requirements  

Many businesses are required to comply with various regulations. Onboarding can help to fulfill compliance requirements by providing training on the company’s policies and procedures.  

Boost Morale  

A good onboarding process can help to boost morale by providing a positive experience for the new employee. By helping the new employee feel welcomed and supported, you can help them feel positive about their new job and about the company as a whole.  

Some Common Mistakes When Onboarding New Employees  

In brief, employee onboarding is an essential process for any business but only when you do it right. There are a number of mistakes organizations can make when onboarding new employees. Some of the most common include:  

Not Providing Enough Information or Training  

Employees need the information to do their jobs effectively, and they need to be trained on how to use the company’s systems and processes. If this information is not provided upfront, the new hire will quickly become overwhelmed and frustrated.  

Failing to Provide a Clear Plan or Goal  

Employees need to know what they are working towards and what is expected of them. Without a clear plan or goal, they may feel lost and uncertain about their role in the company.  

Not Making New Hires Feel Welcome  

The onboarding process should be a time of excitement and anticipation, not one of confusion and uncertainty. Employees should feel welcome in the company and be introduced to their new colleagues.  

Not Providing Enough Support  

Employees need help settling into their new roles and getting up to speed with the company’s processes and procedures. If they do not receive the support they need, they may quickly become overwhelmed and discouraged.  

Not Tracking the Results of Onboarding  

It’s important to track the results of onboarding in order to determine its effectiveness. This helps you identify areas that need improvement and make changes accordingly.  

Top 12 Employee Onboarding Best Practices    

Every organization is different, so there will be no one-size-fits-all approach to employee onboarding. However, there are a few best practices that all organizations should follow when welcoming new employees. Here is the top 12 employee onboarding best practices businesses should not look away from:  

Get to Know Your New Arrivals 

There is no other better way to prepare a suitable employee onboarding procedure than to understand the characteristics of your new employees first. There are multiple methods to do so. One of the most optimal ones is employee personality testing. This tactic will give you valuable insights into each new individual so that you can come up with the most effective ways to welcome them. Suppose you are wondering which testing tools to pick. In that case, you should consider bravoTALENT – an HR supporting tool that helps employers and employees in the recruitment process by profiling candidates’ interests, skills, and values. This test can be conducted before or after the interviews due to your needs or purposes. 

Plan Ahead  

The onboarding process should be planned out in advance, and the necessary resources should be made available. This includes information for the employee, training materials, and support from their supervisor. In order to create an amazing onboarding process for your new employees, you definitely should research some of the best onboarding ideas available before coming up with yours.  

Create a Welcoming Environment  

When new employees walk through the door, they should feel welcomed and appreciated. Organize an orientation session to introduce them to their new colleagues, and make sure everyone is friendly and welcoming.  

Provide a Comprehensive Orientation  

Employees should be given a comprehensive orientation upon joining the company. This should include an overview of the company’s history, culture, values, and goals. It should also cover the employee’s job duties and expectations.  

Assign a Mentor  

To help new employees acclimate to the company, assign them a mentor. The mentor can answer any questions the new employee has and help them adjust to the company culture.  

Provide Training and Development Opportunities  

Employees should be given access to training and development opportunities so they can grow and improve their skills. This will help them be more successful in their roles and contribute to the company’s success.  

Encourage Socialization and Collaboration  

Encourage new employees to socialize and collaborate with their colleagues. This will help them build relationships and learn about the company culture.  

Establish Rules and Procedures  

It’s important to establish rules and procedures for new employees, so they know what is expected of them. This will prevent confusion and ensure that everyone is following the same guidelines.  

Set Goals and Objectives  

Help new employees set goals and objectives for themselves. This will give them something to work towards and help them feel more engaged in their work.  

Celebrate Successes  

Make sure to celebrate successes with new employees, both big and small. This will help them feel appreciated and motivated to continue performing well.  

Give Feedback  

Provide feedback to new employees regularly, both positive and negative. This will let them improve their performance and understand what is expected of them.  

Encourage Engagement  

Encourage new employees to be engaged and involved in the company. This will help them feel more connected to their work and the organization as a whole.  

Conclusion  

The bottom line is that effective employee onboarding is crucial for both the employees and the organization. By following the onboarding best practices outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your new employees are ready for success and that your organization enjoys all of the benefits that come with a well-functioning onboarding process. 

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Talent Management

How to Improve Employee Morale and Job Satisfaction for Your Organization

Making sure that employees want to come into work and feel satisfied with their jobs is crucial for the success of any business. When companies succeed, workers win as well. By investing in employees and creating a concrete company culture, you can create long-lasting relationships between employers and staff members.

There are several ways to improve the morale and satisfaction of employees. However, it is essential for management to understand that simply boosting employee morale will not necessarily increase profitability or productivity, considering the complex nature of interactions between organizational design and human behavior.

This article provides insights into numerous reasons why employee morale and job satisfaction matter to your organization and recommendations that managers at all levels can adopt.

First, let’s define employee morale and job satisfaction

Employee morale

Employee morale is necessary for any business to function properly. While many would consider it happiness or excitement about their job, that is not quite accurate. Instead, employee morale should be seen as the workforce’s mentality towards the workplace. This includes how satisfied they are with their tasks, wages, and benefits, their outlook on career advancement opportunities, and how motivated they are to perform their jobs.

Low employee morale can lead to disengagement, dissatisfaction, increased absenteeism, poor service quality, and lost productivity. If employees are happy with the way things are currently working at your organization, chances are that you have a high level of employee morale.

Job satisfaction

Job satisfaction is, essentially, how fulfilled employees are with their jobs. Employees with high job satisfaction are more likely to be skilled workers who work better under pressure without compromising teamwork and productivity. That being said, managers can boost job satisfaction by defining opportunities for advancement, developing training plans that will help employees grow into leaders, and listening to what employees have to say about how their business is run.

A positive work environment fosters creativity, ensures employee loyalty, and raises bottom-line results.  On the other hand, low employee job satisfaction may lead to reduced productivity, poor performance, employee discontent, and an overall negative work environment.

The difference between morale and job satisfaction

While there are many similarities between employee morale and job satisfaction, there are also several differences. Morale is a broader term that encompasses many elements, including job satisfaction. However, morale also deals with the relationship between management and employees, while job satisfaction deals with how fulfilled someone is by their work itself.

How to find out if your employees are happy with their jobs

The answer is simple. Inquire! 

You can simply ask your staff members whether they are satisfied with their wages or working conditions. You can also give them an anonymous survey form if you do not want to hurt their feelings. The idea is to find out what your employees need to be motivated and productive at work.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

1. Ask for feedback during informal conversations

This not only shows that you care, but also allows employees to know that they can be heard. Merely asking the question will show your workforce that their opinions count and are valued.

2. Watch for behavioral signs

Some behaviors are easy to spot, such as repeated tardiness or absences. Other signs include a lack of interest in projects and general passivity. Be specific about the job functions that employees are expected to perform, and then look for signs that indicate a lack of motivation or enthusiasm.

3. Survey your workforce on a regular basis

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to surveying staff members. The frequency of the employee surveys will depend on the size and type of organization, as well as each employee’s role, salary level, etc. Ask for frequent employee feedback so that management can respond to issues that franchisees or lower-level employees face.

4. Use social media to gauge employee sentiment  

Social media has become an influential platform for employee feedback. It is publicly available, easy to source and share with managers, and allows workers to speak anonymously without fear of repercussion. 

5. Check in with a small group of key employees      

This is a great way to gain insight into what team members are thinking. It can be achieved by organizing small focus groups that include employees from various levels and departments within the organization, including millennials. The key is to ask open-ended questions to get them talking.  

6. Identify trends in your organization’s complaints

Every complaint is an opportunity for improvement. If employees aren’t happy with the compensation you offer, find out why. If they are unhappy about their hours or commute time, look into solutions that can improve their situation. Follow up with your staff members to make sure changes have been made and identify what else needs to be done in the future.

7. Adjust employment conditions as needed

In some cases, employee morale can be improved by re-evaluating current employment conditions. For instance, if employees are on a fixed salary and have not received a raise in several years, this could explain the lack of motivation among your workforce.  

8. Actively listen to what your employees want

Just as you value the opinions of your customers, put yourself in their shoes and think about whether they would enjoy working for you. You can begin by asking questions such as: “How satisfied are you with the quality of work we do here?”, “What could we do to make things better around here?”, “What could we do to improve our services or products?” and “How can we make your jobs easier?”

9. Find out why employees want to work for you   

It is also important to find out if employees like working for your business, as well as how it ranks against your competitors in terms of compensation and benefits offered. This will help management identify areas in need of improvement and take steps to remedy them.

Which factors affect employee morale and job satisfaction?

Corporate culture and management style may play a vital role in determining employee morale and job satisfaction. Employees working for employers who emphasize teamwork will likely have better morale than those who work for employers that focus on individual performance.

Many factors affect employee happiness, including salaries, benefits packages, company culture, health care costs, career development opportunities, or lack thereof, especially for younger generations. However, it is crucial for managers to see that these factors are not the only ones that impact employee morale, and they must work to improve all aspects of their company.

Salary level and career prospects

Employee morale is crucial to the success of a business. Team members who feel undervalued may leave for new opportunities, while those whose needs are met will be more likely to stay on board and contribute positively to the workplace environment. In some cases, workers’ job satisfaction is directly related to their salary level; in others, there is no connection.

Sometimes, salary levels may play a role when it comes to both job satisfaction and satisfaction outside the work environment that affect an employee’s happiness or stress levels. For instance, employees who are satisfied with their salaries may be more likely to pay off debt, which can reduce stress levels.

Career development opportunities

Employees who are given opportunities for career advancement are more likely to feel fulfilled in their jobs, resulting in better morale. Job satisfaction is key to the success of a company, which depends on retaining employees even when other companies are hiring.

However, some industries are experiencing decreased job satisfaction because workers are not being offered enough professional growth opportunities. But growth, meaning an expanded competency in job skills and responsibilities, motivates employees more than any other workplace benefit. Without the possibility of professional advancement, workers may become less invested in their work or even leave for greener pastures.

Employee morale throughout all generations

A diverse workforce needs to be acknowledged, especially when it comes to different needs and values across generations. The millennial generation, those born between the early 1980s and the late 1990s, has been a recent source of discussion as expectations shift for this demographic.

For instance, society’s shift toward prioritizing wellness has resulted in millennials’ desire for work-life balance. They value flexible schedules more than any other generation, and they are less willing to relocate for their jobs. Additionally, millennials’ tendency to prioritize technology may affect workplace morale. In some cases, millennials feel that managers do not offer enough mentorship or training opportunities. Therefore, more of these workers seek professional development on their own time.

Why employee morale and job satisfaction matter to your organization

Recruiters spend time and money finding the best employees. But what’s the point if those employees leave as soon as they find a new opportunity? In addition to skills, workers must be motivated by their workplace. If an environment is not encouraging or rewarding enough, employees become unhappy with their work and move on. 

This is why employee morale and job satisfaction are so crucial to employers. If they can keep employees feeling satisfied with their work, workers will be less likely to leave, saving companies both time and money.

The link between productivity and employee engagement

Employees who are satisfied with their jobs will be more productive at work. They may also show higher levels of motivation by actively engaging in learning opportunities and sharing ideas and feedback with management and colleagues. 

Among employees that were dissatisfied with their jobs, those who were not engaged in work activities or development opportunities reported the lowest levels of productivity. Satisfied employees are more productive and motivated at work than unfulfilled employees, who often experience stress and lower motivation.  Because of this, companies that prioritize job satisfaction can see a boost in productivity and overall financial success.

How to boost employee morale and job satisfaction 

A focus on your organization’s core values is essential to establishing an environment that will encourage employee morale. During difficult economic times, it can be challenging to keep turnover low. However, investing time into understanding what makes employees happy with their work environment will pay off in the long run.

Below are some strategies that organizations can implement to improve employee satisfaction and morale.

Creating teamwork

One of the best ways to improve employee morale and job satisfaction is giving employees opportunities for growth, advancement, and leadership. Companies should create a workplace culture where employees feel engaged and involved, rather than isolated and unappreciated. Creating teamwork can help promote this kind of environment.

Allow workers to communicate with one another more freely by removing office cubicles and adding an open floor plan instead. Having more collaboration within the office environment will help create teamwork.

Small talks

Small talk among coworkers during the workday can lead to closer relationships between employees. Little things like lunch or coffee can break the ice that may have developed between them but never been addressed.

Employees often feel appreciated when their managers take the time to ask how they are doing or include other touches that show interest in their work and lives.

Ability to make decisions

Collaborative efforts create better ideas than those that come from individuals. Give employees more responsibility by allowing them to make small decisions about their work. This will foster feelings of trust and autonomy, both critical factors in employee morale and job satisfaction.

This could be as simple as allowing someone to choose a new desk plant instead of forcing them to buy one from the company-provided options. Little things like this might seem unimportant, but it goes a long way in making employees feel like they have a voice and make decisions.

Improve working conditions

It is also important for employers to understand the environment employees are working in. If the working conditions are too hot or cold, noisy, cluttered, etc., employees may feel unsatisfied with their work. It can be as simple as adjusting the temperature accordingly or moving some products off a desk to make it more comfortable for someone to sit down.

Workers must be able to focus on their tasks without distractions to be productive. They need to feel comfortable in their workspace to complete tasks without getting sidetracked or stressed. Organizations have a responsibility to create the right conditions for employees so they can do their best work in a supportive environment.

Work-life balance

Feelings of being overworked or underpaid are also reasons people become unhappy at work. Employees should be paid fairly for the amount of work they do and not forced to stay late unless permitted. A healthy work-life balance is essential for employees to feel satisfied and happy at their job.

Employees who feel a healthy balance between their work and personal lives are more satisfied with their jobs. However, many employees complain about having to work late hours or on the weekends. These issues usually come down to poor delegation skills from managers. When workers feel as though they cannot achieve their responsibilities within the time allotted, they will begin to search for new jobs that will give them more time to themselves.  

Offer perks such as flexible work schedules, telecommuting, and subsidized lunch or dinner can help improve work-life balance at the office. These types of benefits allow employees to achieve a satisfying work-life balance without leaving their current job.

Providing meaningful rewards and employee recognition

Meaningful rewards are an inexpensive way to increase job satisfaction, and they don’t have to cost the company anything. If employees feel appreciated for their hard work, it can make a huge difference in how they see their workplace. Rewarding good behavior with simple things like thank you cards or paid days off shows that management places importance on an employee’s work.

Some companies also give awards or bonuses for exceptional individual or team performance. These types of rewards are created to increase motivation and job satisfaction throughout the company.

For instance, a bonus system in which employees earn a bonus based on the number of hours worked and their performance is an effective way to motivate workers. In this example, employees have both salary and bonus incentives for their work. The appeal of getting paid more can increase employees’ motivation while also showing workers that the company values their efforts.

Beware of emotional exhaustion

Managers should be particularly aware of “emotional exhaustion,” or stress and burnout that results from having too many tasks to complete in a day with limited time and resources. Workers who experience emotional exhaustion may struggle with finding motivation as their morale declines. In addition, these workers are more likely to leave to find a better opportunity. 

In order to prevent emotional exhaustion and decrease turnover rates, managers should ensure that employees have enough time and resources to complete all of their work tasks successfully. This will help them take on additional projects without feeling overwhelmed.

Utilizing HR software

Companies should also invest in HR software to track trends with job satisfaction rates, preventing employee dissatisfaction before it starts. Having information upfront can help most companies avoid issues or at least discover them early on.

A good HR software program like bravoSURVEYS can provide insights into the overall satisfaction of employees. The application can measure factors that influence overall morale and job satisfaction, including salaries, work conditions, feeling valued, opportunities for advancement, perceived leadership effectiveness, teamwork dynamics, and more.

Maintaining high employee morale and satisfaction levels

Companies should not allow their employees to become complacent. Each year, companies should ask workers what they need in order to do their jobs more effectively and feel satisfied with their work. When employees feel heard and appreciated, morale is boosted. 

Employee satisfaction needs to be a priority to foster an environment where employees are comfortable, happy, and productive. Management should clarify to employees that their happiness is crucial by consistently asking how they are doing if there are any issues or what changes could be made to improve morale. 

Asking for feedback can help boost employee morale and job satisfaction while helping management identify areas for growth within the company. Employees who feel heard and appreciated are also more likely to go above and beyond for a company, improving the overall satisfaction level.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that employees who are not happy with their job or have a negative outlook on work will most likely be less productive and more stressed than workers who enjoy coming to work. If managers identify specific areas where engagement is low, they should take the appropriate steps to improve morale and decrease stress levels among staff members. Employee morale is an essential factor in the success of any company. By making efforts to increase employee motivation and overall happiness, companies can improve overall work performance, which benefits all involved.

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Talent Management

An Overview of Employee Management System & Its Benefits for Your Business

When it comes to the management of employee data, systems are a critical tool. Not only do they keep track of vital information for the organization, but they also help to ensure that all processes and procedures related to employees are conducted in an orderly and consistent manner. Through this blog, we are going to take a look at what employee management systems are and some of their benefits for businesses. We will also discuss some key features that you should look for in an employee management solution.

What Is an Employee Management System?

An employee management system (EMS) is software that helps businesses manage their employees. It can track employee hours, performance, and payroll. It can also help businesses find and hire new employees. Some systems are cloud-based, which means they run in an internet-connected data center. Cloud employee management systems make it easy to work with employees worldwide.

Employee management software can be simple or complicated. It all depends on the business needs of the company implementing the system. Some businesses need only a little tracking for project timesheets. Others require the extensive capability to track performance goals and access human resources (HR) information.

Some larger companies have their own custom-made system that can include many features. They may use it only for the management of their employees. Smaller businesses often use an off-the-shelf commercial system. These companies also sell systems that are more complex for very large enterprises.

Why Use Employee Management Systems for Your Business?

In order to maintain the company’s work as well as gain the upper hand in the competition, having an efficient employee management system is a must. While you may have a good quality product and a large customer base but lag behind on efficient resource management, it will not be easy for your company to stay ahead of the curve. There are multiple tactics in which you can improve the management system and excel your company to new heights.

One such way is through an employee management system, which helps you manage all of your employees in a more efficient manner. It automates all the tasks that were done earlier on paper and makes it easier for you to track records as well as the progress of each employee within no time.

Even though your business may be small or large, an employee management system will prove to be a boon for you as it eliminates the need to manually track and monitor the records and their work. It assists you in making better decisions and helps you manage the resources at hand much easier than before. In short, EMS is the optimal way for your company to measure the effort of employee management with ease and enhance it to the next level.

Top Benefits of Applying Employee Management Solutions to Your Business

Employee management systems can benefit your organization in a number of ways. Here are nine obvious benefits of using an employee management solution:

Improved Employee Compensation Planning with an EMS

As always, employees are the most important asset of any company. An EMS can provide managers with the tools needed to effectively compensate their staff, so they feel valued and motivated while increasing productivity. Using advanced capabilities for data gathering and predictive analytics, EMS will track everything from market trends to sales records to product pricing to competitor data and much more. This offers managers the information they need to determine the best course of action for employee compensation, which can include both short-term incentives like bonuses and long-term rewards such as promotion opportunities.

Enhance Employee Engagement

As an employer, you all are aware of the importance of employee engagement. An EMS helps drive employee engagement by providing a collaborative space for workers to share ideas and resources. This improves communication across departments which stimulates new thought processes resulting in better problem solving and team building.

More Accurate Time & Labor Management

With an EMS, managers will have a more accurate understanding of their employees’ work hours, overtime pay, and time-off requests. Employees benefit from increased transparency in their work schedule and the ability to request time off in one centralized location.

Improved Decision Making Through Advanced Analytics

Managers get more than just accurate time and labor data, and they also get critical insights into their employees’ skillsets, work habits, communication preferences, performance levels, and other key traits. This can help managers make better hiring decisions, create more effective performance reviews, and even identify which employees will work best together. Moreover, an EMS should provide managers with insight into their employees’ interests and goals, as well as a host of other information. This can help managers identify the candidate who will be the best fit for a particular role, which allows them to make better hiring decisions.

Superior Employee Retention

EMS empowers managers with the data they need to build better relationships with their teams, which can lead to increased employee engagement and overall job satisfaction resulting in superior retention rates.

Reduced Administrative Efforts

A large part of EMS features is designed to automate the time-consuming administrative tasks associated with running an office. This includes everything from managing timesheets and sending out tax forms to automating company calendars and travel arrangements.

Improved Meeting Productivity

Managers have easy access to relevant company data at their fingertips with an EMS-based meeting management solution. This ensures that every meeting is well-prepared and productive, which helps employees make faster decisions resulting in more time spent on high-value tasks. 

Improved Client Services & Customer Experience 

Providing clients with a consistent and efficient customer experience is vital to your organization’s success. EMS can help you achieve this by streamlining processes such as the time it takes to book travel arrangements, conference calling, and expense reporting, reducing response time, and improving overall service levels.

Reduced Risk in Business Operations

EMS is a great way to cut down on paper use by encouraging employees to go green and utilize an electronic system, saving money for the company and reducing environmental impacts. It also helps managers better track sensitive information, which reduces the risk of a security breach or other data-related issues.

The Essential Features to Look for in an Employee Management System

A well-implemented EMS solution must offer all these core features and more to make sure that managers have all the information to make informed decisions:

Time & Attendance Tracking

The ability to manage time and attendance effectively is a huge part of running a modern business. Managers should make sure the system they choose allows for manual and automatic (such as GPS) tracking while also providing managers with key information such as who is coming in late and who is taking too much leave. This allows managers to identify patterns, implement solutions and conduct accurate reviews with ease.

Leave Tracking

Managers also want to be confident that the system they choose has detailed leave management features designed with their business needs in mind. This includes tracking everything from sick days, personal days, and family medical emergencies to religious holidays. It should also provide managers with insight into who is taking the most leave and when. This makes it easy to determine if there are any patterns and to take necessary action.

Performance Management

An effective EMS solution must also include a robust performance management tool that allows managers to monitor key company metrics such as turnover rates, absenteeism levels, and other important data points. In addition, it should allow managers to identify which employees are underperforming and then provide them with the tools needed to address the situation. This helps you hold problem employees accountable while also encouraging high achievers to continue going above and beyond your organization.

Training

Along with managing day-to-day operations, a good EMS solution should also include a training management system for developing and retaining your workforce. This can help you create a tailored learning program that meets the needs of individual employees, departments, or the entire company. It should also allow managers to track their team’s progress through training programs, easily identify skill gaps and adjust training calendars as needed.

Learning Management

In addition to training, EMS solutions should also enable managers to run a successful learning management program that encourages their workforce to expand their skills over time. This can help staff members grow into leaders, increase productivity and remain with your organization for the long term. It can also give employees access to continuing education opportunities even if they are working remotely or on the go.

Employee Self Service

Along with all the tools managers need to keep their business running smoothly, EMS solutions should also include a robust employee self-service portal. This can help your workforce save time by providing them with 24/7 access to important information such as pay stubs, benefits details, and direct deposit forms. It can also give employees the ability to update their personal information, request time off, and even submit expense reports.

Analytics

Finally, an EMS solution that gives managers access to insightful analytics can greatly improve productivity and boost overall profitability. This includes dashboards that show key business metrics such as sales per hour, unique visitors, and conversion rates, as well as benchmarks and best practices to help teams work smarter, not harder.

Conclusion

Overall, an employee management system can be a great way for businesses to keep track of their employees and ensure that everyone is on the same page. By automating some processes and providing a central location for all employee information, businesses can save time and money while improving human resource communication between employees and managers. However, it is not easy to find the right EMS that suits your specific business needs, so we outline some of the essential features you should be considering when it comes to EMS options.

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Talent Management

17 Great Onboarding Ideas to Impress New Employees

For many businesses, the onboarding process is much more than simply making sure that employees know where their office or desk is. The success of a company depends on its workforce, and any opportunities to make an impression on new hires can help them feel engaged and valued.  

It is absolutely crucial that they are introduced to, and taught how their role works in the day-to-day operations. And while this process should be fairly systematic, there are many ways you can spice up your onboarding process to ensure that new employees have a smooth start to their working lives with you. In this article, we have rustled up a few of the most effective ways to do just that.  

Let’s take a look at 17 creative onboarding ideas that you can use for new hires so they can get off on the right foot.  

1. Personalized welcome letter   

It is one of the greatest onboarding ideas hiring managers could quickly implement. You can take this one step further by sending an email or handwritten letter to wish them luck in their new role at your company. It’s professional, personal, and will definitely make an impact before the first day of work.   

Opening up a welcome email or letter can really make new hires feel appreciated by the company they just joined, especially if it’s presented in a creative way. By sending them this personalized message, you’re demonstrating that their presence is essential to your organization and its goals.  

2. A welcome gift basket filled with goodies  

This is a very traditional, yet extremely effective way to welcome your new hires into your company. Send your new employees a welcome gift basket containing items such as a coffee mug, snacks, and other promotional items with the company logo on them. Have cards attached to each item explaining its significance.  

Gifts like these always leave a good impression, so you should definitely try this one at least once. It’s also a great way to boost your company image in the eyes of potential customers if the items have your brand on them. 

3. Internal company directory  

Your organization’s new hires will need help finding their way around the office on their first day, so make it easy for them by providing an internal company directory. You can even include photos of everyone in the directory, which will make it easier for new hires to learn who everyone is. This could also be included in the employee handbook to give new employees on their first day. 

4. Office tour  

This is one of the straightforward onboarding ideas that, yet again, go back to the basics. If your new hires are joining a particularly large company with lots of pathways and rooms throughout the building, then chances are they’re going to get lost more than once in their first few days.   

Your company’s new hires should know where everything is located, so schedule them for a tour. You can even show them items that they don’t need to worry about right away, such as the copy machine or other pieces of equipment that are used less often.  

5. Hold an icebreaker   

This can be seen as an employee engagement activity. Your organization’s new hires might feel more comfortable in the workplace if they get the chance to meet everyone right away, so schedule an icebreaker! This will let them learn about their coworkers, company culture, and help them identify co-workers that they might work best with.  

6. Go over the benefits  

All of the benefits that your organization offers should be explained in detail to new hires – not just what they are, but why they are helpful. For example, you might want to explain the vacation policy so employees understand exactly how much time off they can take each year. This will make them feel more justified in taking a break when they need it. 

Be sure to go over and explain each and every one of the benefits. What’s better than an attractive and well-paid employee? An attractive and well-paid, happy employee!  

7. Split new hires into teams  

There’s nothing more frustrating than working on a project by yourself with no one who can help you out when you’re stuck (trust us – we’ve all been there!). That’s why splitting up your new hires into groups of two or three at the start is such an effective onboarding tactic. It gives everyone a chance to learn from each other and bond as a team.  

8. Invite them to training sessions  

There will come a time when you need all hands on deck for something significant in the near future. Why not give your new employees a sneak peek into what they’re about to get themselves into? It’s much more exciting than just sending out an email asking them to attend! Plus, it shows appreciation – which we’ll touch base on in no time at all.  

9. Video tour  

Another excellent way to show new employees how great working at your company is through a video/virtual tour. We’ve all seen the videos online companies make about themselves, and you can do exactly that (but better). They’ll get an inside look at what it’s like working there and gain valuable information like who works where and how many people work in other departments.   

They’ll notice everything from the ping pong table in the break room to the fact that you offer free bagels on Mondays (or whatever food offering will entice them). This is a great way to show people that they’re valuable and essential to your company before they even start their first day. This video tour could also be beneficial to remote employees. 

10. Meal together  

In addition to getting your employees out of the office for lunch, why not organize an entire meal together outside of work hours to enhance employee engagement?  

Whether it’s at a restaurant or back at the office, this is an excellent way for everyone to get to know each other on a more personal level – which will definitely make working together easier in the future! 

11. Small assignments  

If you’ve ever been at a job where your boss makes you do way too much for your first day, then you’ll understand what a terrible idea this is!   

Give new hires small tasks and projects to complete during their first few weeks. This gives them a taste of everything and allows them to engage in some “guided discovery” before fully integrating into the company. It’s a lot better than just throwing them into something they have no idea about and missing out on a potentially integral part of your team.  

12. Give your new employee a voice  

One way to get employees excited about their new job is to give them a little responsibility straight away.   

For example, if they will be working in the marketing department, ask them for some ideas on how to improve social media engagement. Or, if you need extra assistance with event planning, ask the newbie what they think will make future events successful.   

This lets fresh recruits know that their opinion matters and makes them feel like part of the team even before they start properly in their newly-appointed role, and it’s only day one!  

13. Offer mentorship as part of the employee onboarding process 

A great way to enhance your onboarding program is by offering your new hires mentorship from senior members of staff or existing managers in the department.  

This is one way of letting your new employees know that they are valued and trusted to contribute to the company. It will help them feel like they are making more of an impact, which in turn increases engagement levels.  

14. Instant overview of the recent company news  

To help new employees feel included in all aspects of your business, it’s vital that you keep them up-to-date with any recent changes or developments that might affect them too. So why not give everyone a quick overview of what’s been happening during onboarding?  

This is also an excellent way for you as an employer to communicate critical information about company policy and updates before they attend their first staff meeting. Most people enjoy feeling informed, so this will make sure they arrive well prepared on day one!    

15. Offer flexible working hours  

By giving your new employees the option to work from home or choose when they come into the office, you allow them to be more in control of what they do each day. Plus, they might already be used to completing tasks from home, which could help them feel better prepared for their role. 

So, if they are someone who has young children or personal commitments that need to attend at certain times of the day, offering them this flexibility is another way of showing them how much you care about their life outside of work too!   

16. Create a folder full of useful information  

We all know that working life is super busy, so you can help your new employees feel prepared by giving them one place to look if they have any questions or queries over the course of their employment.  

It’s also a good way of keeping everything together in one safe, organized place, so they don’t take up valuable time searching through emails for the right information. 

17. Organize a scavenger hunt 

Does your new hire love puzzles? Then this is an awesome way to test their problem-solving skills – and also give them something fun to do on the first day.  

You can create a list of tasks or clues that take them around the office, allowing them to meet different staff members along the way. They will get to know their environment and get accustomed to where everything is.  

This will help you get to know more about each other and give them a chance to explore the ins and outs of the office space. It’s also a fun way to show them around, instead of giving them that dreaded task of pushing paper across the desk! 

Conclusion 

As you can see, there are many ways to make your new recruits feel at ease and prepared for their role in the company. By showing them how much you care about their well-being and making things as easy as possible for them, they will quickly settle in and become a valuable member of your workforce. So, take advantage of these tips and let your recruits stand out from the crowd! 

Categories
Talent Management

Paid or Unpaid Internship: Which One Is Better for Your Future Career Path?

Are you wondering if you should take a paid or unpaid internship? Both of them have benefits and also drawbacks; however, one might be better for your career path than the other. Let’s have a closer look at the differences between paid and unpaid internships and see which one is the best fit for you.  

What Is Internship?  

An internship is designed to provide practical experience for students to figure out if their chosen career suits them. It also allows companies to screen potential full-time employees by exposing them to actual day-to-day work. Adding an internship experience to your resume is extremely useful, as it demonstrates that you’re dedicated and willing to go further in your career.  

Why Is Internship Important for Students?  

Internships are the best way to gain relevant work experience, make valuable connections, and get your name out there. They can help you figure out if the career path you’re pursuing is right for you by teaching you more about what it entails. If done right, internships are an opportunity to learn new skills that will benefit your future career.  

Here are the key benefits of an internship for students:  

  • Boosts your resume  
  • Let you explore your chosen career field fully before making a commitment  
  • Provides practice for the real world of work   
  • Builds character by working with others on assignments.   
  • Give experience in your preferred profession, which helps to land your dream job after graduation.  

View more: Top 7 Employee Benefits Trends

Difference Between Paid and Unpaid Internship  

A paid internship is an opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field. Students may be looking for work while they are still in school or may want to continue working while they attend classes. With a paid internship, students often gain access to professional contacts and higher-level executives that can help them with their careers once the internship is complete.  

An unpaid internship is most often done through a college or university and is meant to give students an opportunity for professional development, similar to what can be gained with a paid internship. The most common outcome of an unpaid internship is the student gaining access to professional contacts, higher-level executives, and the skills required to succeed in their career. 

There is little difference between a paid and unpaid internship at face value. The benefits gained from both are similar, though not necessarily the same. In terms of who can take part in an internship, however, there is a clear divide: students with financial support from their parents or other family members have access to more opportunities for internships, while those without may need to find paid internships to gain hands-on experience. Whether it is paid or unpaid internship, it is crucial for students or fresh graduates to be aware of the pros and cons of each before making a move.  

Advantages & Disadvantages of Paid Internship  

The paid internship offers students an opportunity to gain experience in the field, which is especially valuable for those who are still deciding what they want to pursue. Paid interns often work in their chosen fields and can sometimes even receive college credit for their efforts. Students who participate in paid internships usually need financial support from family members or other sources so that they can pay for housing, food, and other expenses. They are usually able to do this through a combination of earnings from the internship itself, contributions from family members, and any scholarships or other funds that they may qualify for.  

Pros  

Financial Security 

You’re getting paid for your work and can support yourself financially. You will better understand the financial struggles that the average person goes through when working a job that they do not like. There is no such thing as an internship where you get rich, but it does help you to understand how to manage your finances.  

Gain Practical Experience  

You get to jump right into the workforce and start working, gaining skills along the way. This is beneficial because you can get real-world experience under your belt before you graduate college. You have the opportunity to see what it’s like in the workforce, which helps you figure out what type of career you’d like to work towards.  

Gives You a Network 

If it is an internship with a well-respected company, you will be able to build up your professional network. You’ll meet co-workers and future employers who can help you get set up for success after college.  

Cons  

Difficult to Find  

Paid internships are difficult to find, especially if you don’t have any prior experience. If you cannot afford to take an unpaid internship, finding a paid option maybe even more difficult. This could limit the number of options that are available to you.  Therefore, more young people are leveraging the talent management system to find internship opportunities. The talent management system is the platform that provides access to thousands of internships and also full-time opportunities from qualified companies. 

Long Hours & Low Pay   

A lot of people choose to take an unpaid internship rather than a paid one because of this. The low pay and long working hours often lead interns to work other jobs on top of their internship. They may even need to rely on their parents or family members for extra funds, which can be stressful.     

A Step Back in Your Career Path   

If you’re looking to gain valuable experience and jump-start your career, this isn’t the best option. You may not be making much money while working long hours, which means that it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to advance in your current role or get a promotion any time soon. When you are working your way up the ladder, it may take longer to get where you want to go.  

Limited Opportunities for Advancement   

If an employer only has a small budget and needs their interns to do menial tasks, they won’t have any activities or opportunities for advancement in their internship program. This means that if the goal of your internship is to move into a managerial role, you may need to look elsewhere. Your time and experience may be wasted if you’re not able to advance in the areas that you want to.   

Advantages & Disadvantages of Unpaid Internship  

Unpaid internships offer students the opportunity to gain academic credit as well as professional experience in a given field. They often provide a chance to work directly with professionals in an industry and to network with other students and recent graduates. Unpaid interns may still incur expenses while participating in the program, such as the costs of food or housing if they are not living with family members or friends. Some programs offer stipends for unpaid internship or reimbursements for certain expenses, but these are few and far between.  

Is it worth doing an unpaid internship? It depends on what you crave to get out of it. But before you can answer that, you need to carefully weigh the pros and cons.  

Pros  

Flexibility 

Unpaid internships are usually flexible, so if you need to take time off to attend class or work somewhere else, then it’s easier to do that than with a paid internship. Sometimes interns even get more flexibility than full-time employees, which can be great for students who also want to study for finals.  

Gain More Practical Experience 

Unpaid internships give you the chance to work in a real office and gain valuable experience while still in school. You can start working and build up your resume while studying for college at the same time. In addition, if you’re working in a field requiring constant education and training anyway (such as medical fields), then you’ll still be gaining experience that can help your career later on. 

Learn Responsibility 

When you’re working for an unpaid internship, you get the chance to learn responsibility and accountability. You will be expected to come in on time and do your work, just like a regular employee would. This is beneficial for college students who are preparing themselves for full-time employment after school.  

Short Time 

They are usually only around two or three months, making it easier to manage school and work. If you’re eager to work somewhere, then an unpaid internship can be a good way to test out what you like and dislike.  

No pressure 

If you’re not looking for a permanent job yet, then unpaid internships are perfect. You’re usually not expected to have a set schedule, and you don’t have any pressure on you.  

Networking 

Unpaid internships are great places to network because it’s easier to meet people when you’re doing real work with them. You’ll make contacts in your field and learn more about the field itself, which is beneficial for any student before or during college.  

Cons  

Higher Competition 

When everyone else wants the same unpaid internship, then competition goes up drastically. If you don’t do well in the interview process, then someone else will. Not only do you have to be qualified, but you also have to stand out from the competition.  

Less Educational 

Some feel that unpaid internships are less educational than paid positions because you’re not learning the same skills. If you can work in an environment in which you can ask questions and get help readily, then you’ll be able to learn more. Moreover, some companies don’t offer educational opportunities with their unpaid internships, so it may seem like you didn’t learn anything at all (which is bad for your resume). Even if you’re just getting coffee or taking notes, it’s important that you’re still learning something so you can list off new skills on your resume.  

The Job May Not Turn into a Paid Position 

If it’s a paid internship, then you can convince your employer to make it part-time or full-time employment after the summer is over. But if it’s an unpaid internship, they may not want to commit to hiring you for another term because they’ll already have saved money by hiring you for the summer.  

You May Not Receive a Reference 

Some companies expect unpaid interns to know what they’re getting into before applying, and some don’t offer references because it’s not considered a “real” job. They’ll say that you’re not a paid employee and therefore don’t deserve to be called if someone is looking into you. Even if they do give you a reference, it’s usually just a generic statement that doesn’t show much. If you apply to study abroad programs or summer classes after your internship, then they may not think that your experience was “real.” They may only consider you if you have a paid internship on your resume, and some will even prefer paid interns.  

Fewer Benefits 

Companies know that unpaid internships are usually given to lower-income individuals, so they don’t provide the same benefits (like healthcare). They know that most unpaid interns can’t afford to pay for benefits, which is one of the main reasons they’re willing to take on an unpaid intern in the first place.  

Unable to Negotiate Your Rate 

When you’re paid, you can decide what salary is best for the type of work you do. When you’re unpaid, then your employer can pay as little as they want without it being considered an unfair wage because they know that interns are willing to work for free.  

Your Internship May Be Lower-key 

Most unpaid internships are done with small companies or organizations, where the interns have to do more grunt work than they would at a bigger company. Paid internships can give you access to employers with impressive names who will be able to open up more doors for your future.  

Should Stipends for Unpaid Internship Be Compulsory in the Future?  

There’s nothing to guarantee about this, but the change is sure to come. Many countries have already been moving towards this movement. In the UK, the Advertising Standards Authority has banned several companies from advertising unpaid internship opportunities because they did not provide proper stipends for their interns.  

It is expected that paid internships will be more useful in terms of post-internship job placement, higher satisfaction among interns, and moreover, they would encourage more people to take up such opportunities. In addition, there are also certain financial advantages for aspirants who opt for a paid internship.  

With this said, we can undoubtedly say that the time is not far when it will be mandatory for companies and organizations to provide proper remuneration to interns before taking up their internships. We hope that there will be a compulsory stipend, with benefits emerging for both interns and companies.  

Summary  

Both paid and unpaid internships have their own unique benefits, but which one is better for your career path depends on what you hope to get out of the internship experience. Paid internships offer more stability and structure, while unpaid internships can give you more opportunities to learn and grow. Ultimately, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision. Paid or unpaid internship? What are your thoughts? 

Categories
Talent Management

A Guide to Effective Human Resource Communication

Human resource communication is one of the most important aspects of any company. When communication is effective, it can help to create a positive and productive work environment. However, when communication is ineffective, it can lead to tension among employees and other workplace issues. To ensure that your HR communication is effective, it is crucial to understand the various methods of communication and how they can be used appropriately. This guide will provide an overview of human resource communication and offer tips on how to use them effectively. 

What Is Human Resource Communication? 

Human resource communication is the process of exchanging information between an organization’s management and its employees. This process helps to ensure that everyone is aware of the organization’s goals, strategies, and operations. It also helps to maintain a positive relationship between the organization and its employees. 

HR departments use various forms of communication, including letters, newsletters, emails, web pages, video presentations, presentation slides, flyers, product brochures, and more. Because communication is the most valuable asset of human resources, this field of HR must be given more attention both by scholars and practitioners.  

In human resource management (HRM), HR communication is composed of two primary aims:  

  • Builds connection with employees by influencing their understanding of company culture through various mediums such as speeches from management about company values or blogs written by leadership on how to be successful in specific positions.   
  • Ensure compliance with workplace policy regarding physical breaks for employee well-being as well as raise awareness for security details that are new on campus after a significant event occurs. 

Common Types of Communications in Human Resource 

Written Communication 

This type of HR communication comes in the form of emails, memos, and letters. Many business owners feel that written communication is the most effective way to communicate with employees because it allows them time to reflect upon what was written and re-read information without stress or anxiety if they do not fully understand it the first time. 

Non-verbal Communication 

Managers and supervisors use this type of communication at their discretion to communicate with employees; often, this comes in the form of facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. The advantage to using non-verbal communication is that it can be used quickly and easily if a manager or supervisor is suddenly aware of an issue that needs to be investigated or discussed. 

Verbal Communication 

This is the most common among managers, supervisors, and employees because it allows for immediate feedback about what has occurred within the workplace. The benefits to using verbal communication are that all questions can be asked immediately, so there is no misunderstanding about what was discussed, and all employees can have a chance to share their thoughts and emotions. 

Electronic Communication 

It is typically used when communicating with a large group of people or a workforce that works in different locations, especially during a pandemic. The advantage of using electronic communication is that it saves time because an employer does not have to gather multiple groups of employees together to discuss what has happened or what needs to occur in the future. However, the disadvantage is that it can be challenging for some individuals to participate because they are not able to hear everyone’s voice effortlessly. 

The Importance of Human Resource Communication 

Human resource communication is a crucial aspect of any organization. It allows for the exchange of information between employees and management. It helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the organization is running smoothly. HR communication also helps to build relationships between employees and management, ensuring that the labor force is united and able to work more effectively towards its goals. This can be helpful to improve morale and encourage teamwork. Additionally, it can help to increase productivity and reduce conflict within the workplace. Therefore, more companies are leveraging HR tools and talent management systems to better communicate within their organizations. 

What Makes for an Effective HR Communication Strategy? 

Clear and Concise Language 

Using clear language makes it easier for employees to understand what you are saying. It is often beneficial to use words that are not specific to your industry because this allows for individuals who are not familiar with your business or position within the company to understand what you are trying to communicate better. 

Respectful Language 

It is crucial to use clear but respectful language to show that you care about your employees’ feelings and respond to what you are saying. This type of language is also beneficial because it instills a sense of trust between you and your fellow employees, which can lead to higher morale within the workplace. 

Emotional Intelligence 

Using emotional intelligence shows that you understand that emotions play a large role in how people communicate and process information. Many managers and supervisors are not aware of how their own emotions affect the messages they are trying to communicate which can cause them to appear insensitive when addressing employees. The more aware you are of how your actions may be perceived by others will allow you to better understand why certain behaviors or language might make employees feel uncomfortable when communicating with each other. 

Honesty 

Being honest when communicating with your employees allows each person to trust what is being said because they know you are not trying to hide anything from them for the sake of keeping secrets or “nice-talking.” There are plenty of benefits to honesty in communication, including increased morale, positive feelings between managers and employees, and higher levels of productivity. When employees feel they can trust their managers and supervisors, their productivity increases because they know the person they are speaking to has no judgment when it comes to what is being said. Therefore, they are more willing to be open with them when discussing ideas or concerns within the workplace. 

Interpersonal Communication 

Using interpersonal communication allows you to understand how each individual responds to the way things are communicated. Many people respond better to certain types of communication because it matches their personality, and those who communicate in a different manner may not feel as though that specific manager or supervisor heard them. Therefore, it is essential to consider each employee’s unique style of communicating and then use that information when speaking with them in the workplace. 

Body Language 

This is a valuable tool for communicating between employees because it allows you to truly understand what they are really thinking and what they are saying. In addition, by incorporating nonverbal cues into your communication strategies, you will be able to build stronger relationships with your fellow employees, which can lead to greater morale within your workplace. 

Team Building 

Team-building communication allows you to engage with all of your employees by teaching them how they can build more significant relationships with one another. This type of communication is beneficial because it helps create better work environments for everyone involved, reduces stress levels throughout the company, and leads to higher overall productivity within the company as a whole. 

Strategic Communication 

Using strategic communication helps you to pinpoint how each employee can best communicate with one another and allows you to give them the tools necessary in order to do so successfully. Since this type of communication requires more time invested into getting each individual involved up-to-speed on how things work within the company, it can be beneficial to hold meetings with various employees for the sake of communicating information about the company. 

Integrity 

The integrity within your communication strategies helps each employee know that what you are saying is true and based on your word alone, not necessarily based on whether it benefits you or not. In addition, this type of behavior creates trust between employees and managers, allows employees to feel valued, and ensures that communication is always happening rather than when communication is lacking. 

Openness 

This is a crucial thing in communication. Openness within your communication strategies guarantees that each employee feels as though their opinions matter, ultimately leading to greater morale throughout the company. This allows employees to understand that their thoughts and ideas are always valid, creates a more positive environment within the company, and ensures that everyone involved is on the same page when it comes to what is being communicated. 

Top 5 Tips to Improve HR Communication Between Employees & Employers 

Improving human resource communication in a workplace is essential for all employees to ensure successful work relations. There are five areas of communication that contribute to the success or failure of relationships between employees and their employers. These include: listening, giving feedback, body language, what you say and how you say it. Pay attention to these if you would like to enhance human resource communication in a workplace. 

Listening 

Listening is critical as it allows you to understand other people’s perspectives and understand the situation. Most of the time, a lack of listening leads to miscommunication because we’re not hearing what others have to say. It can also result in losing business contracts and relationships if you don’t listen well during meetings or negotiations. 

Giving Feedback 

It is vital to give feedback regarding the behaviors of employees so they can improve their work performance. It’s important not to deliver feedback in a negative tone as this will cause offense; rather, it should be constructive criticism that employees are able to learn from. Furthermore, you should address the issue at hand by using “I” statements to avoid assuming the blame. Lastly, feedback should be given in a timely manner to prevent employees from forgetting what they need to work on. 

Body Language  

It’s essential to have positive body language when communicating with others so that you can emphasize your message effectively, for example, by making eye contact and maintaining an open posture towards the person so they know you are listening.   

What You Say 

It’s important to express yourself clearly when communicating with people, make sure you get your message across effectively and be concise about what you want to say. If colleagues have a problem understanding you, then it will be hard for them to communicate back.   

How You Say It  

How you say it is crucial when having discussions with peers and colleagues. Your tone of voice, speed of talking, and overall mannerisms can all affect how well your message is received. If people feel nervous or uncomfortable in a situation, then their communication will become negative. They may stutter, talk too quickly, and often interrupt others. This will be difficult for them to communicate effectively and can cause frustration in both parties. On the other hand, if people feel relaxed and comfortable, they will communicate more positively and well with others. 

Conclusion 

Human resource communication is a difficult task. As such, it is essential to make sure you are delivering messages in the appropriate channels and ensuring that those messages resonate with your target audience. We expect this guide has helped provide some insight into what makes for effective HR communication strategies and some clarity on how to improve communication within your organization. 

Categories
Talent Management

Top 10 Possible Trends in Talent Management for 2022

Talent management has changed dramatically in the past few years. The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise of new technologies have been changing how people work. Companies have to think about what it means to their business and take action to keep up with the fast-changing pace of the globe. Therefore, the latest talent management trends are always an exciting conversation.   

Human resource professionals have been hard at work trying to anticipate what will be on trends in the coming years. Some think that organizations will be moving away from the overt focus on hiring, training, and retaining to a more fluid approach where employees have multiple jobs with several different companies. Other experts believe that companies will begin focusing on promoting their brand through social media channels rather than relying solely on advertising campaigns. Here are some of their best predictions for what trends in talent management we will see in 2022.   

The Emergence of the “Virtual HR Department”  

In the next decade, we are likely to see a continued rise in the popularity of virtual HR departments. These are teams of HR professionals who work remotely, typically from their own homes. This approach has multiple benefits, including reduced overhead costs, greater flexibility for employees, and increased productivity. This talent management trend started many years ago; however, an increase in the number of businesses using it can be expected in 2022, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. 

HR Directors Gain C-Suite Prestige  

HR directors are joint in almost every organization, but very few have achieved a high level of prestige within their company’s management team. We are likely to see a shift in this trend in the near future, with more HR directors being given seats in the C-suite. This is partially due to the increasing value of HR functions within organizations and also because of the strategic importance of HR directors in developing and executing successful talent management strategies.   

The Rise of “Data-Driven HR”  

One of the most remarkable trends in talent management for 2022 will be the increasing use of data-driven methods. This involves using data analytics to make decisions about hiring, firing, and other HR processes. By analyzing data on employee productivity, turnover rates, and other factors, businesses can make more informed decisions about talent management. This is a big part of what some call “evidence-based HR.” We can expect to see more companies using this approach in the next decade.   

Large Corporations Make Major Changes to their Talent Management Strategies  

In 2022, it is possible that large corporations will radically alter their existing approaches to talent management. The most likely place where this could occur is in the area of outsourcing. Today, many large businesses outsource high-level functions like accounting, legal services, and software development. This trend is likely to grow over the coming years, with more companies exploring ways to use external talent management solutions instead of building their own in-house departments.   

The Emergence of Automated Interviewing Systems  

One of the most critical trends in talent management for 2022 will likely be what some call automated interviewing systems. This refers to software used by companies to screen applicants for open positions. Such talent management systems are designed to collect data, schedule interviews, and ultimately speed up the hiring process. They are gaining popularity due to the fact that they can reduce the amount of time and money that businesses spend on recruiting.  

A Shift in Focus Towards Younger Employees  

In 2022, it is likely that businesses will place a greater focus on younger employees. This is because millennials will make up the majority of the workforce by that year, and companies will want to find ways to better attract and retain this group. One way of doing so is by offering more flexible work arrangements, which millennials are known to prefer. Another strategy is to focus on developing younger employees’ skills and career paths.   

The Focus on “Total Talent Management”  

In 2022 and beyond, we are likely to see the emergence of what some call “total talent management.” This refers to businesses placing greater emphasis on developing their employees both inside and outside the workplace. Some examples of this include offering wellness programs, providing more training opportunities, and giving out personalized career advice. Such initiatives will become an essential part of attracting and retaining millennials in particular.   

The Rise of Social Media Recruiting  

Social media recruiting is already a popular trend, but it is likely to become even more widespread in 2022. This involves utilizing social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to find and screen potential employees. By using social media, businesses can reach a larger number of candidates than they would through traditional means. They can also stay updated on how these candidates interact with their social media profiles, which will give them more information about what they are looking for in a job and how far they crave to go in their careers.   

The Growth of the “Personal Brand” as a Vital Aspect of Career Success  

The concept of having a personal brand is something that has already become relatively common, but it will surely become even more significant in the next decade. This involves cultivating one’s image and reputation outside of their business interactions. Having a strong personal brand will enable people to build up their professional networks and gain recognition for their skills and expertise. It is likely that companies and recruiters will place a greater emphasis on people’s personal brands when determining who to hire or work with in the future. 

The Importance of On-job Training & Development  

As we are moving deeper into the 21st century, there has been an increasing emphasis on businesses providing their employees with on-job training and development. This is because traditional education is no longer seen as being enough to prepare people for the modern workplace. As a result, companies, and enterprises are starting to invest more in their own employee training programs, which can range from online courses to on-the-job mentoring. By doing this, companies can ensure that they are getting the most out of their employees.  

Sum-up  

Talent acquisition and retention is a topic that all organizations need to be thinking about as the workforce becomes increasingly globalized, technology-driven, and competitive. As these changes continue to occur throughout the next decade, it will become more critical than ever to monitor what’s happening around you. In this article, the top 10 predictions for the possible trends in talent management for 2022 have been revealed, and there are surely more coming. Perhaps some of these future trends you may want to consider incorporating into your hiring practices in 2022 or even sooner if they sound like a good fit.   

Categories
Talent Management

How CEOs Manage Their Time

CEOs have an incredibly demanding job. As the highest-ranking executive in a company, they are responsible for making major corporate decisions. They also lead the development and execution of long-term strategies, maintain daily business operations, keep in touch with their employees, and act as the main point of communication for the board of directors. With so much on their plate, it’s clear what CEOs value the most: time.

Having great time management skills is key to being an effective leader. Without it, you risk juggling between ‘filler’ tasks, and losing focus of your primary business objectives. With it, you become a more productive and efficient leader, and also gain a huge competitive advantage in your field.

Not all CEOs have mastered the art of time management. But, through persistence and determination, old habits can be discarded in favour of new ones. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective productivity ‘hacks’ as touted by successful CEOs.

1. Slash time staring at the inbox

In theory, email is supposed to be used to save time on phone calls and face-to-face meetings and therefore boosts productivity. The reality is that email has a way of digging into precious time throughout the day. How bad is it? According to a report from McKinsey, the average professional spends 28% of the work day reading and answering emails. Yes, that goes for CEOs too.

Fortunately, modern email platforms offer a number of time-saving features. Both Gmail and Outlook and more let you break down respondents into categories. At a glance, you can see whether the email notification is from a friend, colleague or client, and then respond straight away or later.

Custom add-ons can also help streamline your email communications. With Gmail, you can integrate a range of official add-ons to improve workflow. You can quickly start or schedule a Zoom video chat, add Dropbox files to an email, or create a custom To Do List. The possibilities are virtually endless.

2. Gently say ‘No’

Steve Jobs once famously said, “Innovation is saying no to 1,000 things.”

On one hand, Steve had a point. Say ‘Yes’ to every little request or suggestion, then your productivity will suffer. On the other hand, if you constantly say ‘No’ then you may come across as self-important and unapproachable.

Saying Yes to many things will also make it tight on your schedule. Instead of having people coming to you with great ideas, make sure to ask them to come up with a solid plan instead to see if the project can be success or not right away.

If you cannot spare any time or are concentrated in other projects, instead of saying ‘Yes’, let the other person know when you can listen to their request and why.

By giving a reason, the person is less likely to feel rejected, and you still leave the door open to future ideas and suggestions.

3. Plan your day in advance the night before

After a long day, the last thing you probably want to do is to plan the next one. But hang on. What if doing so only took 15-minutes of your time, and it drastically improves your productivity? That’s exactly what the Ivy Lee Method is about.

Created by productivity consultant Ivy Lee back in 1918, the Ivy Lee Method works like this. Every night, once your duties are done, sit down with a pen and paper and jot down the five to six most important tasks you want to accomplish the next day. If desired, you can list the tasks in order from most to least important.

From there, focus on each individual task the next day. And, if there’s any unfinished business, simply transfer the unfinished task to the following day’s list.

How effective is this method? Many CEOs and productivity experts claim the method has stood the test of time for over 100 years1. James Clear, author of ‘Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good habits and Break Bad Ones,’ states the method forces you to make tough decisions and ignore less important tasks, until your core duties are achieved.

4. Keep meetings short and sweet

Research has shown that CEOs can spend up to 72% of their day in meetings. Worse still, most CEOs agree that 1 hour meetings can be shortened to 30 minutes or even 15 minutes. Aside from wasting a CEOs time, meetings can leave staff feeling frustrated and mentally fatigued.

Fortunately, there are ways to slash meeting times.

One is to plan the topics of interest in advance. Give all participants a chance to put in writing the topics they’d like to raise. If there’s a common topic the respondents want to discuss, you can raise it at the meeting. If there’s a less serious (but still worthwhile) topic raised, you can put it in the ‘maybe’ pile for that meeting. If time doesn’t allow for it, make it a priority at the next meeting.

5. Set aside time for friends, family and being alone

For most CEOs, time for leisure is as valuable as gold in Fort Knox. Unfortunately, poor self-care can lead to serious mental stress, burnout, and reduced productivity. That’s why it’s so important for CEOs to take care of themselves – even if it means sacrificing a few extra gains for their business.

There are many ways to take care of yourself as a CEO. Allocate brief 10 to 15 minute windows of free time throughout the day. Make sure you get a consistently good night’s sleep. And, give yourself a clear cut-off point – where you say goodbye to work phones, messages, and other duties – each day of the week.

Finally, minimise the amount of time spent on work during weekends and vacation.

Whether you’re an employer, team leader, or manager, these time management tips are a great way to increase your motivation and productivity.

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