Strategy #25
Employee Development
To implement and establish a system of assessing personnel strengths and weaknesses in an atmosphere that encourages improvement and development. Mentors and coaches can assist in this process by lending their expertise and assistance to those with areas of need.
Background
Areas of employee deficiency can be detected by using personal skill assessment. Improvement in these areas will benefit both the individual and the agency. To further this improvement concept, the agency should encourage the mentoring concept while assigning coaches to assist those in need.
Actions
- Develop an assessment process that will help identify problems or deficiencies that need to be addressed.
- Consider the use of outside organizations to conduct the assessment process.
- Develop and select mentors and coaches for specialized training who will assist in achieving employee improvement.
- Establish clear policy objectives in support of the employee development program.
- Assign coaches based on their areas of expertise and according to the needs of employees.
- Take advantages of existing mentor relationships and encourage the progression of coaches into mentoring capabilities.
Benefits
- Takes advantage of existing abilities and relationships while developing employees.
- Detects problems early on and provides in-house assistance. Outside assistance can be provided when needed.
- Builds new relationships while fostering open communication and teamwork.
Other Considerations
- It is important to document findings and follow-up activities.
- Supervisors should not relinquish their evaluation responsibilities; it is up to them to know when it is working or not working and take the appropriate actions.