Companies require expert human resource management skills during turbulent economic climate

A recent study by Adecco Group, shared the input of 200 leaders participating in the 2008 World Business Forum on how today's leaders are facing and navigating through the current uncertainty. Key findings indicate that generating revenue, pursuing growth opportunities and maintaining a competitive edge were of prime importance. Also on the list were recruitment and retention, which were rated with a higher priority during booming economic times.

With organisational leaders focused on furthering company growth and retaining external relationships, human resource managers are facing challenging decisions relevant to employee motivation and productivity.

"Management heads need to employ professional skills when making crucial decisions such as downsizing and salary adjustments,"

said Professor Ashly Pinnington, Dean of the Faculty of Business at BUiD.

"Often, human resource managers have to work with the organisation's financial budget for staffing which has been tightening in recent weeks. Companies must now focus more on educating HR experts to make smart decisions that will benefit the company in the short term and sustain goodwill in the market for the brand," added Pinnington.

As part of the university's commitment to deliver industry solutions and expertise to the UAE, BUiD will host Professor Tim Morris, from the Said Business School, University of Oxford UK at the university's auditorium on 17 December 2008.

Based on recent research into accounting, law, management and recruitment consultancies, Professor Tim Morris will present advice to companies on expanding client portfolios and expertly managing internal resources. His team's research study shows thatleaders are aware that some of their greatest assets are motivated and driven employees and external client relationships are vital to developing organisational growth. These business relationships are primarily driven by loyal and professional staff."

International and regional firms are concerned with boosting employee morale and productivity during a period where fiscal capacities are being reduced leading to forced measures such as staff redundancy and labour down sizing.

"Regardless of the external environment, businesses need to retain their gold star staff and ward off job insecurities through innovative workforce initiatives," contributed Dr. Abubakr Suliman, Senior Lecturer for Human Resource Management at BUiD.