Managing the pressures of farming
[Table of Content]
What is workforce management?
Workforce management is the management of workers in the business including family members. It includes recruitment, skills assessment, skill and career development, management of day-to-day activities, processes for communication and consultation and review of work.
Why is workforce management important?
Being able to manage a business’ human resources is a fundamental skill required for the profitable operation of any business. Workforce management is important for farm businesses as it helps the business run smoothly and with less stress. Workers who are employed in a well managed workplace are less likely to want to leave, and the investment in their skills development will pay off.
What does workforce management involve?
Workforce management includes:
- Employment issues including finding and keeping workers, employment conditions and costs
- Having clear duty statements for workers
- Leadership and team work
- Communication and negotiation
Where can I get help with workforce management?
Help with the basic of awards and conditions may be found:
- State Farmer Organisations
- Employment agencies- see phone book
- Contractor labour- see phone book
Where can I access training to improve my skills in workforce management?
Farmers who are self employed are not necessarily skilled to manage workers who may include their own family members and employees. Training can be very helpful in setting up simple systems that suit your farm workplace and will make working relationships more straightforward and productive.
A range of skill based training is available in workforce management. If you are interested in training courses in workforce management please refer to the training directory under the topic you are interested in.
- Management
- Communication and negotiation
- Workforce / Human Resource Management
- Leadership