During Virginia Edelstein's annual review last year, it was decided that for the purpose of her professional development, she would work at identifying her next steps. Project director at Volunteer Vancouver, Edelstein had grown a bit restless recently. Discerning more...
I have been working with organizations, and especially managers, for 14 years now, and one thing is clear: managing people is hard. Some people want to be managers and seek it out. Others have been promoted to the position, regardless...
A change of leadership is never an easy time for a nonprofit. The board has a lot on the line. Clients, staff, and funders are looking to them to find the right person to take the organization forward. The wrong...
Last month, the HR Council for the Voluntary & Non-Profit Sector (HR Council) released the third and final part of its ongoing study on labour force issues within the sector. The first two reports - Report #1: A framework for...
When an employee leaves an organization they incur both indirect and direct costs. Direct costs include separation, vacancy, replacement, and training expenses. In addition, there is a performance differential: The difference in productivity between those who leave and their replacements....
An employee produced a note from a doctor and requested "disability accommodation" requiring me to reassign work between several employees. I know of someone with the same disability who thinks the work is doable, and wonder if this employee is...
In the Talk from the top series, Ottawa business executives share some of their expert advice and insights on human resource issues. This month's topic is keeping the love alive. Three executives explain what they do to keep passionate about...
Last month I attended a conference where you spoke on the topic of employee retention and engagement. You emphasized the need to identify key employees (talent) and to treat them differently from other employees, making sure to recognize their superior...
In this new series, Ottawa business executives share some of their expert advice and insights on human resource issues. This month's topic is HR Resolutions. Our business executives this month were asked to share their number one recommendation for anyone...
The ability of an organization to hire the "right" person for a job opening is a critical asset. And there are an infinite number of variables involved in assessing potential candidates. Do they have the necessary qualifications? Do they have...
