Phase One of workforce planning is about preparation. To set yourself up for success, you need to identify who should be involved in the activity. Your “workforce planning team” will be key to the success of the undertaking.
This should be based on the scope and scale of your business. If you have a small workforce, you’ll have a smaller workforce planning team – this is more than okay. This may simply include you as the business owner, and someone representing HR or finance to provide additional insights. If you have a slightly larger workforce, its good to include representatives from across the business, managers, supervisors as well as middle and junior employees. This variety will ensure a wide range of knowledge and viewpoints are incorporated. Regardless of the size, make sure you identify what everyone’s role is in the planning process, and how much time they can commit to the task.
Whether it’s just you as the business owner, or a larger team, those involved need to have a good understanding of each role in the business and the knowledge and skills required to do those roles. In most cases it is best to have a basic job description to articulate the role and what you are looking for.
It’s also important for your workforce plan to align with your business plan. These two plans should work together to meet your overarching business goals. Consider updating your business plan before you develop your workforce plan. Be clear about what you’re trying to achieve through your workforce plan. What information do you need to ensure there is a clear path for your business plan?
Use the Workforce Preparation Plan template to help you identify your workforce plan team.
