Employers across Australia are trimming their salary budgets, but with more precision than has been seen in previous downturns, a Mercer study has found.
HR professionals often complain of less-than-satisfactory relationships with their recruitment providers, but work is required on both sides to make an effective partnership, says trainer and coach Ross Clennett.
Effective communication and a "scientific" approach are critical in developing - or removing - performance bonus and recognition schemes, says head of reward at Hewitt CSi, Jairus Ashworth.
Employers must ensure they understand the modern award system before it comes into effect in just nine months, according to workplace lawyer Shana Schreier-Joffe, who warns that the new Fair Work Australia regulator is likely to be vigilant in pursuing employers for non-compliance.
Employers should consider introducing a "moodometer" and resilience programs in an effort to combat employee depression - which is costing Australian business billions of dollars each year, according to best-selling author of Back from the Brink and depression sufferer Graeme Cowan.
In a social media world where "anyone can publish", managing the redundancy process to avoid online reputation damage is crucial, says HR technology consultant Michael Specht.
Employment growth is more stable than the mainstream media portrays, and Australia may well survive the global financial crisis without the big job losses seen in previous downturns, according to HSBC chief economist Dr John Edwards.
As talent-sourcing gets easier, employers should consider breathing new life into their organisations by "top grading" their workforce and shedding poor performers, says Taleo senior vice president Al Campa.
Smart employers are directing their branding strategies inwards to engage workers who survive staff culls and to maintain positive relationships with the talent they're forced to let go, says MD of The Face, Adam Shay.
Some employers have successfully stepped up to the task of managing psychosocial safety, but in many other workplaces, initiatives are falling flat. Join us for an HR Daily webinar to understand what's holding back progress in this critical space and how to move forward.