Stage by stage (3)
c. Development
Developing talent is key to the success of any workplace. Many pharmacy practices lack clear development plans for their employees. Individuals need to know how they are performing and giving feedback is an essential skill for any manager or owner.
Developing employees effectively includes:
- Induction or 'on-boarding'
- Success development
- Growth and enablement.
During the first few weeks of employment, it is essential to ensure that the new member of staff can become productive as quickly as possible. Therefore induction or 'on-boarding' plans are essential. Most organisations include a three-month review and six-month probationary period within the employment contract.
During this time the employer should provide all necessary training and development to allow the employee to acquire the necessary skills and tools needed to be successful in their position. From six to 24 months, the employee-employer relationship should develop, with the employer focusing on providing clear career progression, addressing performance and developing productive working relationships.
d. Engagement
Excellent employers know how to get the best from their staff at all times. They understand how to engage and motivate individuals to achieve peak performance.
Motivational strategies underpin employee engagement and reduce staff turnover and the substantial costs associated with having to re-recruit. A Gallup survey revealed that 59 per cent of engaged employees reported that their job delivers their most creative ideas, compared with only three per cent of disengaged employees.3
e. Separation
At a later point, an employee may separate from their workplace for different reasons €“ to leave to work elsewhere, or as a result of redundancy, retirement or a disciplinary procedure. It is essential that a business or organisation adheres to employment legislation during the separation process. If appropriate, it is useful for the employer to ask for feedback from the employee, in case there are issues that need to be addressed.