Keeping staff biggest worry in 2008

HOW to keep staff in today's tight job market is once again the biggest concern for Australian employers in the new year, a survey has found.

The challenge has remained the same for about four years, but now engulfs more employers.

A survey of 7000 employers by recruitment firm Hudson found 44 per cent of Australian bosses believe staff development and retention will be their top priority in 2008.

This shows a rise from 2004, when 36 per cent of employers rated it as the number one task.

The second major challenge, according to the survey, is attracting suitable candidates. This trend shows a rise from 15 per cent in 2004 to 29 per cent of employers for 2008.

Increasing productivity shows a corresponding decrease in interest among employers, from 30 per cent for 2004 to 14 per cent now.

"Smart employers are ensuring that they are managing their talent effectively so their staffing needs continue to be met and business goals achieved over the long term," Gary Lazzarotto, managing director of Hudson Australia and New Zealand, says.

"The cost of losing good employees far outweighs the cost of implementing simple and effective talent management initiatives," he says.

"Ultimately, it's about offering an attractive employment proposition that attracts high quality talent while keeping existing employees satisfied, challenged and motivated."