Staffing Problems? Look In The MirrorAt Information Week, Rob Preston doesn't want to hear IT employers carp about visa limits or an aging workforce or problems with the educational system. While those issues are real, he says most high tech companies in the US have done a terrible job attracting, training and motivating the employees they've already got: "This looming labor shortage isn't just a straight supply problem. It's also an HR embarrassment. Instead of just wringing their hands about their labor challenges, employers need to look in the mirror. For one thing, "employee engagement" is near an all-time low, observes Tom Casey, VP of human capital at the Concours Group. That's management consulting speak for the fact that tech pros are demoralized, thanks to knee-jerk offshore outsourcing and the post-bubble malaise. Many of their employers hail from the "you should be happy you have a job" school of management... Overall, the "if we need them, we'll just go find them" employer mentality won't cut it anymore. Be proactive."Preston says employees need to step up too. For anyone, though, a little respect can go a long way... UPDATE: At last week's XChange Solution Provider, a panel of solution providers from among the CRN Fast Growth 100 discussed finding and holding on to good employees: ""We are a systems integration company—our value is our people. It's critical that people in our organization stay sharp. People in technology want to grow professionally, they don't' want to be stagnant." [Michael Axelrod, managing director of e-Brilliance, Conshohocken, PA] Posted by Joe Caponi at 01:10 PM, March 12, 2007 This is a public forum. United Business Media and its affiliates are not responsible for and do not control what is posted herein. United Business Media makes no warranties or guarantees concerning any advice dispensed by its staff members or readers. Community standards in this comment area do not permit hate language, excessive profanity, or other patently offensive language. Please be aware that all information posted to this comment area becomes the property of United Business Media LLC and may be edited and republished in print or electronic format as outlined in United Business Media's Terms of Service. Important Note: This comment area is NOT intended for commercial messages or solicitations of business. |
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