An overlooked asset

Times are changing, and human resource management is becoming more important than ever.

Nicole Anker is one of the workshop organizers. — Photo courtesy CFEK

With baby boomers retiring in large numbers, a new generation of employees is requiring workplaces to adapt their human resource practices. The staff at Community Futures East Kootenay (CFEK) is seeking to educate employers with their Human Resource (HR) Toolkit and Workshop Series. This program is designed to give practical information over the course of three workshops, including a one-on-one consultation with a skilled facilitator. The end result is a complete human resources manual that employers can then apply to their organizations.

“The program is designed to be practical and immediately applicable,” said Nicole Anker, commercial loans administrator for CFEK. “Topics include HR management and leadership assessments; strategies for hiring and retaining skilled labour; employee relations, motivation and teamwork; performance management and recognition; understanding HR-related legislation and related risks; and compensation and benefits. The program was developed by small businesses for small businesses, although it will greatly benefit not-for-profit organizations as well.”

Cranbrook sessions will take place in February and April. Workshops are also scheduled for Invermere in March and Fernie in April.

A changing environment

In a time when technology is rapidly advancing and employees willing to learn new skills are essential, it is becoming more important to recognize the changing values and legislation relating to the workplace—and to motivational factors.

“The emerging workforce—generation Y’s—possess different values concerning work,” said Anker. “Employee-related legislation continues to evolve and mitigating potential risks is critical.”

CFEK makes its program convenient for busy employers by scheduling classes in late afternoons or early evenings so as not to interrupt work hours. The concepts are hands-on and applicable with local examples used in some cases.

Necessary measures

Most companies do not have a human resources program in place, something which may become a serious liability in the near future.

“A business's employees can be their most important asset,” said Anker. “The ability to recruit, manage and retain employees has never been more important, regardless of business size. In a highly competitive marketplace, businesses can learn to use human resources as a competitive edge.”