Adjusting Workforce Plans
Workforce planning is defining what the organisation is going to do to meet the workforce needs of the organisation into the future. What action to take today to provide the workforce we need for tomorrow. Workforce Strategic Planning is about making sure the business has the workforce capabilities, performance and accountability to meet the needs of the business strategy and thus making a significant contribution to the success of any organisation.
And hasn’t COVID-19 thrown the spanner in the works for businesses. From not knowing if they will exist, how they will exist and who they need in the future but considerations to what has changed for the business vision and goals is important to be able to plan for it and adjust for it. Where and what will be the impact for the business’s talent and skills needs are just some of the questions being asked.
COVID-19 hasn’t just thrown the spanner in the works for businesses, but for individuals as well who are also reviewing their own individual plans. Can they still retire when plan or do they need to wait longer now? Should we put off starting a family? Can they work part time rather than retiring and a whole range of other considerations? Consideration of both businesses and individuals needs to come together so the business can plan for success in the future. Who and what is required in the short, medium and long term? Will reductions in staff need to be made? At what point will reductions be made, who and if so what is needed when we need that lost skill? Will key staff still be here? Whilst things are unknown at this time for some, considerations and planning will be necessary for success.
So, identify skills your recovery business model depends on. Build employee skills critical to the new business model. A positive is that working from home means some talent is potentially available anywhere. However, consider what skills you need moving forward and how do you get them up skilled, reskilled, bring new resources in or all depending on how quickly it is required.
HR Business Direction can assist with Workforce Planning. Contact us here.
Leisa Messer BBus(HRM); GradDipIR; FAHRI; IRSQ
Managing Director | HR Strategist
leisa.messer@hrbd.com.au
07 3890 2066