| Letter from the President – Welcome 2009!
With 2008 behind us, it’s probably safe to assume that last year held a number of challenges that none of us anticipated. In spite of the economic uncertainty we all face, I continue to be a firm believer in the power of positive thinking. Have you set your goals for the New Year? What do you want to accomplish, both personally and professionally? More
Communicating Low or Non-Existent Salary Increases
Leadership Development in a Down Economy: Getting the Most from Your Investment
Career Transition Services:
|
Dear Colleagues,
Average salary increases for 2009 are forecasted between 3.1% and 4.1% in separate studies conducted by HR consultancies Hewitt Associates, Mercer, and Buck Consultants. At the low end of the spectrum, the Hewitt study found that base salary increases at 411 large U.S. companies surveyed are projected to be 3.1% -- the lowest base salary increase projection since just after September 11, 2001. How do organizations address lower-than-usual (or non-existent) salary increases and/or bonuses while maintaining a positive morale and an energized workforce? The answer is to COMMUNICATE. 
When the economy is in a downturn many organizations begin to target programs to cut from the budget. Those that do not boast an easily calculated ROI are generally the first to be considered, and leadership development programs may be among the first to be eliminated. However, a down economy may be an opportune time to review and revitalize leadership development initiatives. These programs can be revamped to address issues brought on during times of financial stress and help to ensure that future financial projections are positive. 
We are all aware that organizations are doing everything possible to lower expenses as we move into 2009: freezing salaries and hiring, reducing temporary payroll, eliminating bonuses, reducing discretionary spending, conducting voluntary retirements and planning layoffs. Over one million jobs were lost in 2008, and indications point to more to come in the year ahead. | Issue 13 | January 2009 |
|
Letter from the President – Welcome 2009!
Communicating Low or Non-Existent Salary Increases
Leadership Development in a Down Economy
Nominate your company or another who promotes employee development. Find out more and apply online!
Helios HR client-focused delivery models include:
HR Outsourcing
HR Consulting
Interim HR Management
Additional information is available at
|
