IN A new feature that the business section will run each week, we have asked experts across many fields of the business community to share their thoughts on the current economic climate, the methods to rejuvenate and how to emerge as a better, city county and nation.
First up, we have Maurice Carr, Recruitment Partner, BDO Simpson Xavier as he offers his views on how changes in the economy need changes in our outlook on the way forward.
“There is a lot of negative commentary about prospects for the Irish economy in light of the economic down turn and in particular the virtual grinding to a halt of our banking sector. Unfortunately the key systems involved in managing our economy have not served us well and had a major impact on the damage that has been done to our economy. In spite of this there is too much of a focus on blaming individuals and organisations for our problems. We need to focus on our abilities and responsibilities as individuals to regenerate our economy. This is important both for this generation and for the generation that follows. As a nation we are much more confident, better educated with a proven ability to be very successful in trading in world wide markets than we were when the previous recession hit this country. It is very vital that we mobilise the talents of the Irish workforce to work our way out of this situation.
The Talent Base
There is a much higher proportion of women in the workforce now than there would have been in the early 80’s, people are healthier and living longer. There is for example significant talent in the age group between 50 and 70 years of age which needs to be optimised and these people have come through tough times in the past.
More flexibility in the workforce
A more flexible approach to the working week and working arrangements will produce a happier, more flexible and more productive workforce. We have witnessed examples of this in companies that have been proactive in adapting to changes in market conditions. Both employers and employees need to be more open minded and creative when agreeing terms and arrangements for employment that will strike a balance between fairness and making it attractive for an employer to employ someone. I can see a situation arise where a person works for a number of different companies on a part-time basis rather than for one organisation. The issues here are complex but the current environment will require a significant change in mind-set to bring the country around. There is potential for significant positive developments to come from this down turn resulting in a more rewarding value system for everyone and getting away from the preoccupation with materialism, greed, selfishness and a lack of empathy and concern for people. Leadership, particularly at Government level will be important but it is also important as individuals that we take responsibility for making our contribution to solving the nation’s issues. As a professional involved in Recruitment and HR, I believe we have the talent in our people but we also need to overcome our fears and biases to mobilise this talent.”
