OUR PERSPECTIVE

Welcome to JamJam

Talented people are the key to current and future success

Every organisation is under pressure to deliver more. In the public sector, ministers demand better services and improved value for money, while in the private sector, shareholders expect higher returns and more satisfied customers. Achieving these outcomes hinges not just on having the right processes, infrastructure, and technology but, crucially, on having great people who work effectively.

In New Zealand, attracting, retaining, and developing talent has always been challenging. The issue has been exacerbated by an early and growing brain drain, with young professionals leaving for overseas experiences sooner than ever. The competition for top talent is fiercer than ever in 2024, making it essential for organisations to invest in their most valuable employees.

How should I invest in people development?

However, in a climate of budget cuts, training and development often become targets for financial savings. While this might seem like a quick fix, it’s a short-sighted approach. Leaders who understand the importance of sustaining a culture of innovation and performance growth recognise that investing in our people is more critical than ever. Without this investment, organisations risk relying solely on the current capabilities of their workforce, which can stifle long-term success.

Many organisations turn to vast libraries of online training, which can be valuable, but often lack the focus needed for cohesive development. Without proper curation, these resources can dilute shared values and disrupt effective ways of working. Instead, organisations should concentrate on a proven set of core skills and disciplines that align with their goals.

While senior leaders often possess these essential capabilities, it’s the mid-tier, mid-career leaders who need them most. This is where strategic investment is crucial.

Why invest in personal development?

If we neglect to invest in developing our talent, we risk leaving our success to chance. Investing in our people is not just important; it’s essential for achieving our goals and sustaining long-term growth.

People development is critical to:

• Boost Individual Performance: Equipping teams with core skills enhances their performance and fosters stronger collaboration.
• Strengthen Retention: Prioritising career development and work-life balance leads to increased employee commitment and engagement.
• Drive Better Outcomes: A well-developed workforce makes smarter decisions, communicates more effectively, and delivers a greater overall impact.