Staff expectations remain high despite recession

News Article - 13 April 2010
Category: Business

According to a new study, employee expectations remain high despite the economic downturn. Whilst in 2009 workers were generally content to be employed, many may move to another job in 2010 if current employers do not meet expectations.

Historically, better pay deals have followed recession as workers look to improve their damaged finances. The current post-crisis climate has seen pay freezes still maintained by a third of employers, causing discontent to grow amongst staff who were hoping to improve personal financial positions as the economy improves.

The new survey reveals that engagement, retention and recruitment are priorities for HR managers this year, suggesting companies are keen to retain staff and maximise workforce efficiency into 2010 and beyond. Businesses are definitely willing, but the study suggests the economic climate is preventing companies implementing policies to encourage positive change in these key areas.

Cost cuts have reduced the number of techniques available, such as staff surveys and comprehensive appraisals. Whilst this may be a product of the post-recession climate the survey reveals it may have the adverse affect of leaving staff cynical and resentful.

Overall the survey suggests that whilst employers have come through the recession-hit years strongly they must push for stronger two-way communication to ensure important HR goals, such as retention and engagement, are met. This is particularly important for small businesses that do not have the capital to finance recruitment practices regularly; retention is therefore an essential aspect of HR policy.

All businesses should move to strengthen the HR function and employer-employee relations to ensure staff remain loyal to the organisation in the current economic climate. The most efficient methods for ensuring employee happiness will depend on individual employees; the survey suggests, for example, that younger staff may forgo a final-salary pension in favour of longer holidays.

Access HR and payroll business software offers a number of key features allowing companies to more accurately record and act upon staff feedback. From appraisal updates to company-wide news and staff announcements the package allows correspondence to be issued and synchronised automatically. Keeping workers up to date on key issues helps ensure expectations are met into the future, and gives the chance for feedback to be supplied more readily.

In addition, the package automates many of the everyday administrative tasks associated with the HR function, freeing up valuable resources that personnel can use to more effectively communicate and identify with staff members.

For more information how Access software can strengthen and assist the HR function, please call 0845 345 3300.

Article keywords: HR policy, pay freeze, employee satisfaction, HR and payroll busineess software

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