Strategies for Managing Talent Amid Uncertainty and Competition

If you’re a manager, you may need a new strategy to hire and retain top talent.
Lolita Steuber · 4 months ago · 2 minutes read


The New Employer-Employee Compact: A Guide for Managers

1. The Changing Workplace

The traditional employer-employee relationship, characterized by long-term loyalty and predictability, has evolved.

Today's workers are more likely to prioritize short-term alliances driven by uncertainty and competition.

2. Entrepreneurship and the Workforce

Entrepreneurs Ben Casnocha and Chris Yeh argue that the conditions startups operate in are similar to the challenges faced by the modern workforce.

Managers need new strategies to hire and retain top talent.

3. Internal and External Employee Networks

To build a successful organization, it is essential to foster both internal and external employee networks.

Internal networks foster innovation and collaboration, while external networks provide access to valuable information and ideas.

4. The Tour of Duty

A "tour of duty" is an explicit agreement that establishes a defined period for an employee's work with a company.

This approach provides clarity and allows both parties to plan and manage the relationship effectively.

5. Building Profiles and Networking

Encourage employees to develop professional profiles and actively network outside the organization.

By connecting with industry peers and thought leaders, employees gain valuable insights and enhance their own employability.

6. Alumni Networks

Create and maintain formal alumni networks to foster ongoing relationships with former employees.

Alumni can provide valuable perspectives, support innovation, and strengthen the company's brand.

7. Common Misconceptions

a. Encouraging Employee Networking: Managers may fear that promoting external connections will lead to employee poaching. However, it can actually strengthen the company's knowledge and innovation capabilities. b. Tours of Duty and Employee Retention: Defining a tour of duty does not automatically lead to employee turnover. In fact, it can provide more flexibility and clarity, increasing employee satisfaction and retention.