Workforce Planning: Tomorrow Began Yesterday

Deborah Russell, Director of Workforce Issues for AARP

by Kimberly Diener, Goldey Beacom College Student SHRM Chapt

It was Mr. Ron Shane who had the pleasure of introducing speaker Deborah Russell this year. As Director of workforce issues for AARP, Deborah Russell spoke on her experiences and knowledge about assessing the future and existing labor pools. Workforce planning is more difficult now then it has been in years. "With the slump of the economy and the realization of the retiring baby boomer generation, managers along with the human resources department are all feeling the stress" she said.

Deborah also spoke on the different factors that affect planning for both the short and long term of the organization, such as demographics, benefits, technology and retirement plans/funds. She really did put a great focus on the economy, and how it affects everyone and the choices they make. Those who had thought they were going to retire now have to go back to work to not only save for retirement, but to make a living.

Not only is it difficult to navigate the economy, but getting the right balance of talent in the workplace has become harder than it ever has before. To avoid as much anxiety and frustration as possible, Deborah suggested that all organizations invest time in putting together a workforce analysis. AARP has put together a Workforce Assessment Tool, which allows talent management and the human resource department to identify current and future workforce challenges, develop an action planning strategy and create strategic goals for the future.

Having the tools needed to run a successful organization is imperative, and that is the reason that Deborah Russell continues to share her knowledge especially when it comes to the older generations of workers. It is never too late to begin planning as tomorrow began yesterday.