CAREERS: Comment

A parachute jump or driving lesson may not sound like typical

components of an employee training scheme, but in people industries this

lateral approach can be far more effective than the ubiquitous computer

course.

In today's world, the people within a company are its most precious

resource. Every individual will use their own invaluable experiences on

any project, and these are the skills and expertise for which clients

invariably pay. Shrewd employers know effective training is the pivotal

element in maximising their workforce's potential.

The right staff development scheme should reap immense rewards for both

individual careers and the company as a whole. It will help to retain

the best people by providing them with renewed personal motivation and

inspiration, and also eliminate feelings of under-appreciation that can

prompt employees to seek alternative employment. This practice makes

good business sense by not only keeping profitable individuals as part

of the team, but also minimising the recruitment and training

expenditure associated with high staff turnover. Clients will benefit

from the new-found inspiration and vigour that prevents a company's

approach from becoming stale.

That is why we have developed a new initiative. Under our 'Learn to

Grow' scheme, consultants are encouraged to make use of an individual

budget of pounds 1000 a year and three days a month of work time to

focus on any area of their own personal development. Depending on our

approval, employees can choose any activity that they feel will enhance

existing skills or develop new ones, improve confidence, and assist with

their work. These can include anything from studying a new marketing

skill to pot-holing.

We believe that in the long term the commitment will pay great dividends

for both those who choose to work with us, and our business. And

besides, I can't wait to see some of the Zalpha team hurling themselves

out of that skydiving plane!

This article was first published on Marketing