Top talent is more likely to look for jobs that allow them to develop their skills and increase their value in a future role, rather than working their way up the career ladder, according to a new report by Right Management, the global career expert arm of ManpowerGroup.
Over a third (38%) of employers say they have difficulty filling key openings. The report ‘Fulfilling Careers Instead of filling Jobs’ argues that organisations must make a shift from being job providers to career enablers.
Companies can significantly increase employee engagement and reduce turnover by focusing on management strategies that provide clear avenues from growth and prioritise employee development, according to the report.
In order to do this managers need to shift from the old corporate culture that emphasises seniority and the amount of time-served, to one that aligns better with employees’ near-term development goals. If not, organisation will find it difficult to attract and retain talent going forward.
Ian Symes, general manager, Right Management UK & Ireland comments:
“It is time for organisations to abandon hierarchical people management structures of the past and redefine relationships with employees as a mutual, beneficial, partnership. This can be achieved by building a culture that encourages regular conversations around personal and professional growth and career development must be embedded into this.”
From the factors that motivate individuals at work, the report found that two-thirds are related to career conversations. Organisations benefit from the improved engagement and increased productivity when employees are equipped to take on new challenges and opportunities.
Symes continues:
“If businesses fail to take action or talk to their employees about the opportunities that lie ahead, top talent will quickly turn on their heels and look for opportunities elsewhere. After all in the Human Age, a career is seen as an ongoing journey to develop new capabilities and experience, so if companies aren’t nurturing their talent, they simply can’t expect to receive much in return.”
Amie Filcher is an editorial assistant at HRreview.