Viewpoint — April 2009
No War for Talent…..Start One!
Written by Bob Gershberg, Managing Partner Dick Wray Executive Search
Deteriorating performance during these turbulent times has led to aggressive cost cutting on the human capital front. Although this may well have been necessary to ensure current profitability or in many cases lighter loss, it is not the place to be in order to maximize recovery. To be sure every downturn is followed by an upturn (sooner rather than later we hope!). Economic slumps do create a “buyers market” for top-notch talent but this only benefits those companies with the foresight and courage to act.
There is no better time than now to assess your existing talent. Consider the performance differential between a below-average player and a top performer. “A”- players currently employed by your competitors might be the best suited in the industry to lead your Brand out of this economy. Use this opportunity to redesign existing positions to leverage your internal talent. Re-examine your processes, metrics and goals as they relate to recruitment and retention. Remain mindful of my oft-repeated adage, “Retention only makes sense if you are retaining top performers. Retaining mediocrity is not a winning strategy!”
Recruiting top talent is a business process that is fundamentally different from hiring average people. Think long and hard about the type of talent that will drive business value both today and two years from now. Good workforce planning is characterized by not being surprised by the future. Be bold and forward thinking. Now is the best time to upgrade your talent.
Bob Gershberg |Managing Partner|
bob.gershberg@dickwray.com
(888) 875-9993 ext 102
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