"Analytics-Based Approach Key To Retaining Tech Talent"

Navigating the dynamic landscape of the tech industry requires a strategic alignment of talent management with organisational goals. From identifying essential skills to fostering leadership in sync with core values, effective recruitment, skill development and performance evaluation play pivotal roles. Pawan Bhageria, President - Global HR, IT, Administration & Education, Tata Technologies believes that addressing both organisational needs and individual aspirations, alongside adapting to evolving workforce models, ensures a robust and scalable workforce.

In the context of tech talent, how can organisations align talent management strategies with the organisational goals to ensure a robust and scalable workforce?

To create a strong and adaptable workforce, companies need to integrate their talent management strategies with their overarching goals. This involves identifying essential skills and competencies, aligning organisational structures to support these, and ensuring leadership at various levels is in sync with the company's core values. Effective recruitment strategies, tailored skill development, continuous learning, and performance evaluation based on role-specific competencies are vital. A dual focus on organisational needs and individual aspirations, through various career mobility programmes, is essential. Data-driven succession planning and retention strategies for high-potential employees, including unique benefits like education sabbaticals, contribute to this alignment. Adapting to evolving workforce models like remote work and flexible contracts helps in scaling the workforce as needed.

Given the dynamic nature of the tech industry, how can organisations approach employee development and upskilling to keep the workforce aligned with the latest technologies?  

In the rapidly evolving tech industry, organisations should focus on both technical and non-technical aspects for employee development. Technical development includes continuous learning in cutting-edge technologies like AI and IoT, while non-technical development emphasises leadership and project management skills. Access to training modules, encouragement for self-learning, participation in industry events, and regular skill assessments are crucial. Tailoring development initiatives to the specific needs of the industry ensures employees stay current with technological advancements.

Retaining top tech talent is crucial. What retention strategies have shown success in keeping high-performing tech employees within the organisation for the long term?  

For retaining top talent in the tech industry, an analytics-based approach is key. Using data analytics to understand employee satisfaction and engagement allows organisations to create a work environment that motivates high-performing tech employees. Regular feedback surveys and performance analytics help in crafting targeted retention strategies, contributing to a positive and productive work culture.

India is increasingly recognised as a global tech and R&D hub. How can leaders leverage the strong Indian tech talent pool to position itself on a global scale?  

To capitalise on India's strong tech talent, companies, especially those in engineering and development services, should focus on seamless global collaboration. Integrating India's extensive expertise in product development and engineering services with a global outlook positions these companies as significant global players. This approach enables them to offer innovative solutions to a worldwide clientele in various sectors, leveraging India's talent pool to its fullest potential.

Building a talent pipeline often involves collaboration with educational institutions. How can organisations engage with universities and tech institutes to source and nurture talent?  

Collaborating with educational institutions is vital for sourcing and nurturing talent, especially in engineering and development services. This involves designing industry-relevant curriculum modules, offering internships that provide real-world engineering experience, and ensuring that the emerging talent is well-prepared for industry demands. Tata Technologies' specific program "Velocity" exemplifies such engagement, connecting students with industry practices and helping bridge the gap between academia and industry.