Practical HR Tips, News & Advice. Updated Daily.
Like many other companies, the economic downturn forced Heavy Construction Systems Specialists Inc. (HCSS) to reduce its employee development budget over the last few years. But unlike some other companies, the Sugar Land, Texas, company was able to cut expenses without sacrificing learning for its 100+ employees. Doing More with Less With a little creativity, […]
Every new hire completes the New Hire Training program for two main reasons. First, Zappos.com, a leader in online apparel and footwear sales, is a company that has set a high standard for service for both its internal and external customers, says Rebecca Ratner, former director of Human Resources. Second, no matter what their role […]
Before we get into what not to do when using humor in safety training, let’s look at why it matters: Using humor and promoting some laughter and fun in safety training sessions helps trainees relax, interact more with you and other trainees, and be more open to new ideas. Laughter can also help perk up […]
Laugh and the whole world laughs with you. TV comedian/pianist Victor Borge used to say that laughter is the shortest distance between two people. Laughing together brings people closer. That’s because laughter is a shared experience, and laughter truly is infectious. When you see someone laughing, it brings a smile to your face, and you […]
If you have not identified your critical needs, and how to screen for them, you’ll fail, says Susan M. Heathfield, blogging about hiring mistakes on About.com. Here are two more of her mistakes managers make. 7. Failure to Differentiate the Critical Job Skills Everyone has a wish list for their ideal candidate, but you must […]
Tackle your attendance problems by training employees on the following attendance issues. 1. Employer Expectations Regarding Attendance Regular attendance is a requirement of every employee’s job. It is important because: High absenteeism rates reduce productivity. Absenteeism puts undue burdens on other employees. 2. Employer Policies Related to Attendance and Leave Know how many days off […]
In recent years, Convergys (http://www.convergys.com/), a global leader in providing customer care, human resources, and billing services, implemented two training and development programs, Future Leaders and Emerging Leaders. Training magazine recognized the programs when it named Convergys to a recent Training Top 125 list. “We are honored to be named to this select list of […]
In a business brief, the National Network for Sector Partners (NNSP) explains how profiled employers achieved significant bottom line benefits by undertaking innovative training and career development efforts that are targeted at their lower-skilled, lower-wage workers. From Hidden Costs to High Returns: Unlocking the Potential of the Lower-Wage Workforce is based on structural interviews with […]
Bad hires sap time, training resources, and emotional energy, says Susan M. Heathfield, blogging on About.com. Here are her top eight “rookie” mistakes (often made by experienced pros as well). 1. Failure to Prescreen Candidates Prescreening applicants is a must, Heathfield says. A half-hour phone call saves hours of your time and other interviewers’ time, […]
The company’s CEO believes that, ideally, Convergys “leaders should spend 50 percent of their time coaching employees for performance,” Handy says. Consistent with that philosophy, the company piloted a third leadership program this spring. The day-long Leader as Coach program is geared toward managers at the director level and above. If you are looking for […]