I recently read a great article in Talent Management Magazine "The Engaged Difference: What People Want" by Jim Haudan. Having just read the blog post by Jason Averbook, I feel compelled to call out some highlights of this article. It is pretty obvious that the need for organizations to have a Talent Acquisition Strategy in place has never been more salient. As Talent Managers are you creating an acquisition strategy that includes passionate and engaged employees? Simply attracting the "brightest and the best" may not be enough to ensure the success of that individual at your organization. People must be passionate about what they bring to the table and feel engaged, wanted and appreciated.

The article by Haudan speaks to why this is such an important factor to consider. I have highlighted my favorite statements, but encourage you to read the entire article:

"When people are involved in something they're passionate about, whether it's sports, theater, hobbies or the countless other ways people choose to enjoy life, they don't notice time passing."

*"Who isn't interested in being part of something that's bigger than themselves?" *

"To attract new employees, businesses need to show candidates that the company makes an important contribution to the world at large - that the organization is not just about making bigger and better widgets"

"When people believe they don't belong, we can't possibly expect them to feel engaged. A sense of validation arises when people feel that they truly belong - that they "fit," they're accepted, they're one of the group"

"The danger in business is, when people don't feel as if they belong, their connection and commitment diminishes alarmingly."

"What is most critical to keeping talent is making sure that everyone knows exactly where they are on the journey at all times"

As the battle for talent continues in 2008, consider the elements of your acquisition AND retention strategy. Keep the passion alive in your organization. Make it a priority to demonstrate to your employees how they are contributing to something bigger than themselves. It just may be the one simple factor that leads to success in 2008.

To read the full article: http://www.talentmgt.com/recruitment_retention/2007/December/

http://www.talentmgt.com/recruitment_retention/2007/December/493/index.php