Investors In People suggests New Year business detox

Employers have been urged to “detox” their workplaces, reassess their policies and tackle any problematic issues.

Investors in People has launched a web-based test to help organisations to examine their practices and identify opportunities for improvement.

Ruth Spellman, chief executive of Investors in People, said: “Many managers begin the New Year with fresh ideas and enthusiasm, but it’s important to identify specific areas for improvement within the context of their business plan before launching any action. 

“Without this attention, new plans will not be properly targeted and delivered and, as a result, may not deliver any real benefit to the business.”

The test will guide employers through multiple-choice questions exploring life within the workplace and give them a green/amber/red rating based on how their workplace measures up.

Investors in People’s top tips to help managers in the year ahead

· Conduct a future skills audit – map your team’s capabilities against what you are likely to need to deliver your goals

· Make the link between goals and individuals – to contribute fully towards 2006 goals, people need to know what you expect from them

· Prioritise communication with staff – ensure you have clear and well-known mechanisms for regular interaction with your staff

· Make sure measures are in place – when you’ve defined what you are looking for, put measures in place to evaluate success

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· Celebrate milestones – part of an employee’s relish for future challenges comes from recognition of the progress already made.