Workforce of One

In this summary you will learn

• Why customized talent management works better than standardized HR policies
• How to use the four “workplace of one approaches.”

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Why you should read Workforce of One

If your company follows cookie-cutter HR policies, then you’re not getting the most from your employees. Talent management experts Susan M. Cantrell and David Smith make a convincing case for customizing your company’s people policies. Because your employees have different jobs, work styles, needs and aspirations, rigid, top-down management makes little sense – even if, yes, you lose some control. Cantrell and Smith offer four “workforce of one approaches,” explain how to implement each one and provide case studies of companies that have pioneered these strategies. Although at times repetitive, the book’s analyses, quizzes and checklists serve as helpful tools in determining which approach – or combination of approaches – is right for your company. getAbstract recommends the book’s main message to corporate leaders and human resources professionals: Companies that use customized personnel practices will have a more engaged, productive, satisfied workforce, because one size no longer fits all.

About the Authors

Susan M. Cantrell is a Research Fellow at the Accenture Institute for High Performance. David Smith is managing director of the Accenture Talent & Organization Performance practice.