1.4.1 - Approaches to Staffing Flashcards
Small business
1-49 staff
Medium sized business
50 - 249 people
Large business
250+ people
Staff as an asset
When employees value their employers and have concerns over their welfare. The staff are valued because employers recognise their efforts will help the business preform effectively
Signs of staff as assets
Firms make an effort to retain staff. They challenge, acknowledge and rewards employees and above-average wages.
Staff as a cost
When employers see staff as an expense which should be minimised
Signs of staff as a cost
- paying minimum wage
- zero hour contracts
- neglecting investment in training
- providing minimal employees rights
- having penalties for empower African late, break rules and that occur cost to the business
- using cheap and inferior recruitment methods
Drawbacks of treating staff as a cost
Producers a false economy
• productivity may be lower due to poor morale and motivation
• Staff turned over and absenteeism may be higher
• more conflict between staff and management
• employees feel exploited , neglected, stressed and unhappy.
Flexible workforce
Helps a business adapt to change more easily. Businesses can increase the flexibility of their workforce using a number of methods. Can be achieved using : • multi-skilling • part-time and temporary staff • flexible hours and home working •outsourcing
The advantages of having a flexible workforce.
- Flexible workforce allows business to expand and contract quickly in respond to change in demand. A workforce full of permanent staff is difficult to slim down
- Businesses save in National Employment contributions
- Temp staff can be laid off immediately
- With outsourcing, no training costs
- Allows an business to operate more efficiently
The drawbacks of having a flexible workforce
- Temp staff have less loyalty
- Some staff may be poor quality
- Communication can be a problem
- Temp workers can be expensive in some situations
Lawful Dismissal
Employees can be dismissed for a number of reasons but mainly are dismissed for misconduct or being unable to preform their core job. A period of notice is required for the employee to be dismissed.
Unlawful Dismissal
Employees can be unlawfully dismissed if they are dismissed for reasons which violate their rights. e.g It is unlawful to dismiss a employee for joining a trade union. A tribunal can reinstate a unlawfully dismissed employee.
Redundancy
When their is insufficient work for the employee to do. Employees made redundant are entitled to compensation. Criteria has to be met.
Trade unions
Trade unions represent the views of their members and try to negotiate in their best interests. Trade unions have more strength and influence in negotiations. They are able to take industrial actions such as strikes.
