TO WHOM DO BUSINESS OWNERS & PRESIDENTS LISTEN?

Being a business owner or president of a company can be a lonely job. The "buck" stops with them: whether it be mistakes or successes. There are those companies who are made up of "one man/woman". But many others require a workforce of a few or hundreds. So who do these employers turn to for insightful and strategic wisdom? Of course, the bottom line is that the employers have the final say, but most employers have someone they trust and seek advice. It is truly best to always get another person's perspective and insight before making decisions.

Though there are some positive signs in our communities, where some job openings are increasing, there are still other companies needing to downsize or re-organize to improve their business. Our economy is far from being "out of the woods". There are many unknowns, and as our workforce diversity is gradually changing, the nature of employment is changing as well.

A fellow colleague in our industry, Dr. David C. Miles, Ed.D., of Leesburg, VA, recently wrote a book called, THE FOUR PILLARS OF EMPLOYABLE TALENT. In it, Dr. Miles (David) relays how there are a combination of changes happening, and those employers who aren't staying in touch with our diverse workforce, their priorities and expectations, among other factors, could find their businesses in jeopardy. (These are my words-- my interpretation.)

The Social Media is being flooded with working employees, who have been waiting and seeking some growth and development opportunities from their existing employers. Since most have yet to see any, they are "actively" searching via the Social Media for better opportunities for growth.

Many employers (especially the people in HR) have relayed to me their desire to provide training and coaching, but the owners/employers can't seem to release the purse strings. They don't grasp the difference between an "expense" and an "investment". Soon many will lose some of their BEST talent because of this.

You are encouraged to give this message serious consideration. We are all in the midst of a "employment transition", which requires decision makers to turn to their advisers and strategic thinkers and open their minds to a new understanding of developing their most precious asset: the employees.

Robyn Crigger