Sustainable HR July 30, 2008 Here are ways HR can reduce, reuse, and recycle
By Margery Weinstein
With all the talk about the importance of sustainable environmental practices, who knew those same principles could be applied to human resources and training departments? That's just what Kim Glinsky, director of operations for career management services company Lee Hecht Harrison, contends. Here are some suggestions from Glinsky, who says "reduce, reuse, and recycle" makes a handy mantra for trainers:
• "Reduce" turnover through retention programs. "Organizations that have a problem with retention can reduce the costs associated with hiring and training new employees by thinking green,” says Glinsky. "Determining the root cause of turnover, and implementing solutions that promote organic growth, will improve their workforce environment and prevent further decline."
• "Reuse" talent through redeployment and career mobility. "Identifying career paths not only promotes retention, it also demonstrates an employer's willingness to invest in its workforce. Offering opportunities to develop individual talents promotes employee engagement while providing the organization with a renewable business resource," Glinsky points out. "Leveraging transferable skills and harnessing the power of redeployment is another green strategy that organizations can implement to reduce hiring costs and increase morale."
• "Recycle" your workforce, using Boomers as mentors and part-time workers. "Taking advantage of potential retirees' knowledge, experience, and interest in part-time schedules can be a perfect mix for a company facing both employment shortages and a tight bottom line," says Glinsky. "Implementing programs to help individuals nearing retirement age explore their options also will enhance an employer's ability to retain these workers and minimize exposure to talent shortages."
Editor's Note: Are you re-hiring or using as consultants the people you've let go? Or have you given up on breathing new employment life into the individuals you laid off? Join the discussion on Training Day.
RSS