A new survey shows that two-thirds of organizations plan to focus their talent management efforts on retaining and engaging their workforce this year, instead of making cutbacks.

The Right Management survey polled more than 700 human resources professionals in North America and asked if organizations would be focusing on reducing their workforces for retaining and engaging employees.

The survey found that 67% of respondents plan to focus on retaining and engaging employees, and 33% of respondents plan to reduce their workforce.

“Effectively managing talent will be a top priority for organizations looking for ways to successfully navigate the current economic climate while continuing to meet business objectives,” said Douglas J. Matthews, Right Management’s president and COO. “While layoffs are anticipated given the market volatility, what is surprising is that so many organizations are planning to invest in their employees. Organizations need to keep key positions filled. And the best strategy is to develop the employees they have to meet current and future needs so they can respond quickly to changing market demands and remain competitive.”

Matthews recommends the following steps to ensure employees remain engaged and focused:

1. When communicating, understand the unique needs of your individual employees and that “one size does not fit all”
2. Provide consistent and open communication that informs on strategy, goals and current performance metrics
3. Offer context so employees understand how they are contributing to the success of the organization and how they can positively impact results going forward
4. Don’t make predictions, state facts
5. Be authentic, show compassion and empathy

Survey methodology
Right Management conducted the online poll between June and October 2008. A total of 704 mid- to senior-level executives from a wide range of industries and functions responded to the survey. The poll had a margin of error of +/- 4% with a 95% confidence level. 

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