October 1999
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Articles A Fresh Squeeze On Labor Relations Toughening Up Today's Change Efforts People Before Strategy: Four Types of Employees that Help or Hinder a Changing Corporate Culture The Missing Link A Few Kind Words: The Importance of Positive Reinforcement Tool Time Columns Turnabout Is Fair Play Features |
Business Briefs Families Important to
CEOs Many of these executives believe that a fulfilling family life leads to increased long-term productivity for employees. Kent is always sure to block out time in his schedule for his two children. "The biggest way to illustrate the
importance (of balancing work and family) is to believe
in it and do it yourself," says Kent. Questionable Leadership How do you feel about the leadership in your organization? According to a recent "Leadership Benchmark Survey" many employees feel their leaders are unprepared for the future. The survey of over 2,400 employees and managers from 52 U.S. companies, conducted by Development Dimensions International (DDI), Pittsburgh, reveals nearly three-quarters of the businesses surveyed are having a difficult time finding qualified leaders. In addition, over half of the organizations feel uncertain about their futures due to lack of leadership. Managers reported that while they
pursue development for both personal and practical
growth, 70 percent said they are looking to make
themselves more marketable for other jobs, not
necessarily for their current
organization. Making the Grade Testing job applicants may be the way to hire the best employees. The Society for Human Resource Management estimates that more than 20 percent of its members have incorporated some sort of pre-employment testing. The key is deciding what type of test should be administered to whom, keeping cost and effectiveness in mind. According to Roger Sommer, employment committee chairman for SHRM, some basic tests can last as little as 10 minutes and cost around $5 or $10, while more complicated, executive tests can last an entire day and cost thousands of dollars. Some tests are designed to measure basic skills and aptitude. The more expensive and time-consuming ones, however, can measure an applicant's creativity, honesty or communication skills. Chances are, if you need it measured, there's a test to do it. |
