The retention of highly skilled knowledge workers is one of the major challenges today for all organizatons. Knowledge workers are those whose work primarily requires the use of "mental power rather than muscle power."
For example Cheap Bengals Jerseys , they are the developers and caretakers of the computer networks that keep your business running. They are also the producers of the dazzling graphics presentations that help your sales force land new customers. And they are even the account reps who look into data bases to decide whether to grant a bank loan request or explain investment options to potential customers.
Knowledge workers are therefore extremely valuable because they keep the factories churning, the customers satisfied, the new products coming out the door---they are the backbone of your company. So how do you keep these highly skilled and valuable workers from jumping ship---from going to a competitor? Here are four ways to motivate this unique group of workers.
Support training and development. What highly skilled, quality workers realize that in a fast changing world, those who snooze will soon lose their marketable skills. The latest technology Michael Jordan Womens Jersey , or software package, or self-development program not only can lure knowledge workers, but can also induce them to stay on board.
Provide special assignments. Knowledge workers will more likely remain if they know they are learning new things, gaining exposure to ''hot areas'' or increasing their visibility inside the company. Some examples of short-term developmental projects include leading a task force on a pressing business problem, handling negotiations with a customer Renell Wren Womens Jersey ,, integrating systems across units, supervising product or equipment purchase or presenting a proposal report to top management.
Rotate jobs and responsibilities. The movement of workers to different tasks at specified intervals enables them to develop and practice new skills and determine areas in which they can best use their talents. Also, a staff that is prepared to function in a variety of capacities and to perform a variety of duties, will bring breadth and depth to your team or department As a side benefit Ryan Finley Womens Jersey , rotation of people to different areas can result in better communication and work relations.
Show genuine interest. Ask your valued workers how they are doing, what''s going well and what''s not. Don''t wait for yearly performance review time to recognize good work. Do it on a regular basis. As with most people who take pride in their work, knowledge workers value recognition, nearly as much as good pay.
The organization that is able to recruit, motivate Germaine Pratt Womens Jersey , and retain the best workers is going to have a huge strategic advantage. Therefore, companies that offer comprehensive training with planned, on-the job experience, complemented by enlightened supervision and opportunities for ongoing professional development, will be more successful in retaining their valued and highly skilled people. In other words Drew Sample Womens Jersey , give knowledge workers room to grow---or someone else will.
Marcia Zidle, the ''people smarts'' coach, works with business leaders to quickly solve their people management headaches so they can concentrate on their #1 job o grow and increase profits. She offers free help through Leadership Briefing, a weekly e-newsletter with practical tips on leadership style, employee motivation Jonah Williams Womens Jersey , recruitment and retention and relationship management. Subscribe by going to and get the bonus report "61 Leadership Time Savers and Life Savers". Marcia is the author of the What Really Works Handbooks resources for managers on the front line and the Power-by-the-Hour programsfast, convenient, real life, affordable courses for leadership and staff development. She is available for media interviews, conference presentations and panel discussions on the hottest issues affecting the workplace today. Contact Marcia at 800-971-7619.Without doubt Joe Mixon Womens Jersey , job loss through downsizing or redundancy, is a major event for everyone when it happens. Most of us invest so much of ourselves in what we do that job loss can take away our sense of status and belonging, as well as the routine and support that work provides. With our job forming so much of our identity, it leaves us feeling disoriented and lost - but it can also be a first step to positive job or career change. Everybody reacts differently in the hours and days following being told that they are to lose their job.
? Some people expected it and are not surprised; they may be relieved that the uncertainty is over, and even feel excited about the future.
? Others are shocked and full of disbelief: ''This isn''t true; you can''t be doing this to me.''
? Some will try to convince themselves that the whole process isn''t happening. One of the candidates in my practice went right back to her office and carried on with her job for several weeks without even telling her family.
? Others hardly stop to draw breath before writing their resume or CV and applying for new jobs.
Strong emotions are normal; shock Jessie Bates III Womens Jersey , anger, rejection, excitement, relief, guilt and apprehension are all common responses to this situation. So learn to accept that you may feel these at some point.
Usually the early stages of numbness and denial are followed by anxiety or anger; some self-doubt and negativity may follow. It can almost be likened to a necessary period of grieving for the loss of something so important in your life.
Your self-esteem may be affected and this is commonly accompanied by a loss of energy A.J. Green Womens Jersey , in which case you need to give yourself a little time to adjust before re-establishing your self-confidence and presenting yourself to other people.