COMPANIES still seem to be struggling with staffing issues, even with a more hopeful outlook at the economic year.

Productivity, compensation and keeping talent lead the concerns of employers, according to a CareerBuilder survey that questioned at least 2,700 employers.

Thirty-four per cent of respondents are worried about offering competitive compensation. A company may not have the resources to continue providing a salary that is equal to other businesses. Employees could go looking for jobs with higher wages.

Maintaining productivity and top talent finish in second and third when it comes to company concerns. Without an increase in salary, some workers may reduce their daily output, or the top talent might reach out to other businesses for open positions.

The hard economic times can take a toll on workers. Employers worry about worker burnout; they want to keep a positive attitude in their staff after layoffs or cutbacks.

“Retention is just one area that companies will need to address to maintain and grow their businesses this year,” says Jason Ferrara, CareerBuilder’s vice-president of corporate marketing. “Having the right people on board is a top concern.”

Employers plan to offer incentives to keep top talent. Here are some of their ideas:

* Provide more flexible work arrangements.

* Spend more in training.

* Guarantee benefits (raises or promotions) once the economy improves.

* Offer encouragement for good work (trips, bonuses, etc).

* Give a higher salary without the title.

* Provide an increased salary with a higher title.

* Give a higher title with same salary.

As the economy begins to turn around, companies will face hiring difficulties. Some employers may need to set aside resources in order to recruit talented job candidates.

— Creators News Service