Latest news with #Jens
Forbes
16-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Thinking Strategically About Your Workforce Needs
Utilizing skill-based workforce management ties business and people strategy together. The headline numbers each month from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics focus on the number of net jobs added to the economy—and the unemployment rate, job openings, wage growth, and inflation. Don't get overly distracted, however; that's the statistician's world. It's a look in the rear-view mirror. But those who run or manage companies need to focus on the future, and a big part of that future will be workforce needs: making sure, through strategic workforce planning, that you always have (or have ready access to) people with the most-critical skills your organization needs, even as those needs change. The big question marks are: What will those skills be a year, two years, or five years from now? And where will the talent come from? That's where strategic workforce planning comes in. Strategic workforce planning is not 'Part II' of your overall strategic plan. It doesn't come after your strategizing and planning are completed; it needs to be part of the process. The workforce component should help inform other critical decisions; without it, strategic planning easily can become wishful thinking. As the Amsterdam, Netherlands-based Academy to Innovate HR explains, strategic workforce planning is the ongoing process of evaluating an organization's talent needs, 'identifying gaps … and developing a methodical people plan' to ensure the organization has 'the employees, skills and knowledge needed to meet current and future business goals' based on its long-term strategy. The plan, of course, also needs to be agile enough to accommodate 'unexpected events and changes.' Such agility, suggests Ross Sparkman, Senior Director of Workforce Strategy at Walmart, and author of 'Strategic Workforce Planning: Developing Optimized Talent Strategies for Future Growth,' comes from two main sources: 1) the willingness to analyze and use data to make decisions, and 2) support from the top. 'You need to be able to make decisions and you need to have that support from the leaders on those decisions,' he said in a Talent Economy interview several years ago. If you don't have that support, 'you're just never going to have an effective workforce planning function.' New technologies such as AI and generative AI (GenAI) can speed up and refine the analytics, helping to assure the soundness of this critical part of your plan. Many experts and organizations, ranging from the Forbes Human Resources Council to the World Economic Forum, routinely provide predictions about the job skills that will be most in demand in the future. But none of them can forecast your company's needs. With U.S. and global businesses being impacted by accelerated digitization, AI, climate change, ramped up energy demand, competition for rare-earth minerals, political uncertainty, and other largely external factors, what comes next? How is strategic workforce planning even possible? To answer that question, Jens Baier, my go-to expert on talent strategy, suggests that leaders think in terms of skills, rather than job descriptions. Workforce planning, he stresses, has far less to do with the number of people your organization employs than whether those people have the right capabilities and are prepared for what lies ahead. 'The future of work isn't built around job descriptions, organizational charts, or titles. It's built on skills. Roles are static. Skills are dynamic.' Baier notes that 'workforce planning often starts after strategic planning ends.' That's backward, he said. When a company makes a consequential decision, such as launching a transformation, moving into a new market, or changing its business model, its workforce needs change. Skill-based workforce management ties business and people strategy together. 'It lets you see where talent is blocking strategy,' Baier says, giving leaders a full range of options: whether to hire, upskill, partner, outsource, or automate. To determine if you're prepared, you need a clear-eyed, organization-wide assessment that goes beyond existing job descriptions and team structures. I'm not talking about a catalog of every individual competency, but a focused skills inventory that reflects Importantly, such an inventory also will indicate where reskilling can be most beneficial—not only to your organization, writ large, but to your employees. After all, reskilling provides mobility and for many it's their ticket to a better future, enabling them to assume new roles based on capability, not title. This means aligning hiring, learning, upskilling, and mobility with long-term business needs. The biggest challenge, however, is execution, Baier stresses. This often requires a cultural shift—from managing people based on the boxes and silos they occupy (job title, job description, company unit and department)—to more-flexible arrangements, 'based on what they can do and what they can become.' The process may sound simple, but it involves many moving parts. Here, according to Baier, are the key elements: As Baier stresses, 'Skill-based workforce management isn't about predicting the future. It's about being equipped for it. 'In an economy defined by volatility, the winners won't be those who hire the most. They'll be the ones who develop, redeploy, and retain skills the fastest. Because strategy doesn't fail when ideas are wrong. It fails when teams can't execute.'
CBS News
26-06-2025
- Business
- CBS News
6 debt management program warning signs borrowers should know
We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. Not all debt management programs are legitimate, and choosing the wrong one could lead to serious damage for your finances. JensIf debt collectors are calling you daily but you can't afford to pay off what you owe, the idea of enrolling in a debt management program can be pretty tempting. After all, these programs claim to help reduce your debt and eliminate the annoying (and often stressful) communications from creditors and debt collectors. Their messaging is everywhere, too — from radio ads during your morning commute to pop-ups while you're browsing online and even direct mail pieces that outline exactly how much you owe. And, in reality, many of the credit counseling companies that offer debt management programs can genuinely help you get back on track financially. Enrolling in a legitimate debt management program has helped millions of Americans negotiate with creditors to reduce interest rates and fees and create realistic payment plans. But while there are many honest companies trying to help, there are also some that are looking to exploit people who are already struggling, and in many cases, the predatory companies sound exactly like the legitimate ones. When you're overwhelmed by debt, it's natural to want immediate relief, but rushing into the wrong program can make your situation dramatically worse. So, to help you make the best decision for your finances, it helps to know the warning signs to watch for. Find out what strategies you can use to get rid of your high-rate debt now. 6 warning signs to look for when choosing a debt management program The following red flags could signal that the debt management program you're considering may not be the best choice for you: They guarantee results or instant debt relief If a debt relief program promises to slash your debt in half or erase it altogether with no consequences, it's time to walk away. A reputable debt management program will never guarantee specific outcomes because every creditor is different, and not all will agree to reduce your interest rate or waive your fees. Plus, true debt relief takes time. If someone claims they can make your debt disappear overnight, they're either misleading you or selling a program that's likely to hurt your credit or lead to default. Ask a debt relief expert about the options available to you today. They ask for payment upfront Federal law prohibits both credit counseling and debt settlement companies from charging upfront fees before services are provided. So if you're being asked to pay a large sum before any real help kicks in, that's a serious warning sign to take notice of. Legitimate debt management plans might include modest setup or monthly maintenance fees, but those are typically rolled into your monthly payment, and they should be clearly disclosed and reasonable. While it varies, the fees for debt management programs are usually under $75 to start and around $25 monthly. They dodge questions or won't explain the process Transparency matters. If a representative won't walk you through how their debt management program works, what it will cost, how long it will take and what happens if you miss a payment, that's a big problem. Any trustworthy credit counselor should be more than willing to explain the details, including how your payments are distributed to creditors and what happens if one of your creditors refuses to participate in the plan. They don't review your full financial situation A real debt management plan provides a tailored, not a blanketed, solution. So, before recommending anything, a legitimate credit counselor will take a detailed look at your income, expenses, debts and financial goals. If a program is pitched to you without this step — especially during a high-pressure sales call — it's probably not focused on helping you. It's more likely to be geared toward making money off your stress. There's no mention of the credit score impact Debt management programs can affect your credit, but not in the same way debt settlement or bankruptcy might. If a company says your credit score won't be impacted at all, though, that's probably misleading. You may see a temporary dip early on due to account closures or new payment structures, but responsible participation in a debt management program typically improves your score over time. A trustworthy program will be honest about this from the start. They push you away from other options In some cases, a debt management plan really is the best option. But in other cases, strategies like a balance transfer card, a debt consolidation loan or even bankruptcy could make more financial sense. Any credit counseling company that discourages you from exploring alternatives or suggests theirs is the only "safe" or "legal" way to get out of debt is showing its hand. Real financial guidance considers all the tools in the toolbox, not just the ones that generate fees. The bottom line Debt management programs can be a lifeline for people overwhelmed by high-interest credit card debt, but only if the program is legitimate and tailored to your needs. The wrong program could leave you deeper in debt, with damaged credit and fewer options. So before you commit, take the time to research the agency, read reviews, verify credentials and ask questions. A trustworthy program won't just promise relief. It will help you build a realistic, sustainable path toward financial stability.
Daily Record
20-06-2025
- Sport
- Daily Record
Rangers boss Russell Martin praises 'intelligent' new Motherwell gaffer as he reveals text exchange after sides paired in Premiership opener
The duo will face each other on the opening day Rangers boss Russell Martin revealed he has already been in touch with new Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou after the old pals were paired together on the opening day of the new Scottish Premiership season. The duo were team-mates at Norwich City and they will both make their dugout debuts in Scotland's top flight against each other on Saturday, August 2 when the Steelmen play host to the Ibrox side at Fir Park, live on Sky Sports. Asked about facing Motherwell in the opening fixture, Martin told Sky Sports: "It is exciting. We have a lot to focus on before that obviously with a big European game [a Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos] but it is one I am looking forward to. "I played with Jens, the new manager at Motherwell so it will be interesting. We've exchanged messages this morning. Knowing Jens and how intense he was about his work as a player and how he is as a person - seriously professional, intelligent - he will have them very well oragnised and prepared. So we need to make sure we are ready for any challenge. "It is really important for us to start well, for the supporters, for us, for the club but it won't define our season. We need to make sure we are ready to perform. We have a lot of work to do physically, tactically. "The players haven't even been in the building yet - they are back on Monday which I am really excited about - but now we have something to work towards. It is going to be great."
The Citizen
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
New sales manager for Foton Margate
Jens de Bruyn, the new sales manager at Foton Margate, is ready to take the dealership to great heights on the South Coast. And, with 29 years experience in the motoring industry, he believes that more South Coasters should embrace the brand. 'I am truly excited about Foton's vehicle range. Foton's quality, robustness and back-up make it a cost-effective alternative for buyers across the spectrum, from commercial to lifestyle applications.' He added that another excellent aspect of the vehicles is their extensive use of established technology like the partnership with engine builder Cummins, ZF for gearboxes, BorgWarner for turbos, and other parts of the drivetrain. 'The value aspect will most certainly play a huge role, but it is the quality, look and feel of the bakkies and other vehicles that set them apart. People always worry about the availability of spares. There's no need to stress, we have a 10 000 m² parts distribution centre in Pretoria that will distribute parts to the dealerships in no time,' said Jens. Foton Margate was officially launched in September last year and sells minibus taxis, shuttle busses, panel vans, a 2.5 ton truck, and single and double cab bakkies. Head down to the dealership for more information. HAVE YOUR SAY Like the South Coast Herald's Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Scottish Sun
13-06-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
I realised Motherwell boss Jens Berthel Askou would be a success after his incredible moment in game vs St Johnstone
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BRYAN GUNN knew Motherwell 's new manager Jens Berthel Askou would be a success in British football when he watched him head a clearance SIXTY YARDS - in Scotland. Gunn was Norwich manager when Askou arrived on trial at the club in the summer of 2009. 3 Jens Berthel Askou is the new Motherwell manager Credit: Alamy 3 Bryan Gunn had the now manager on trial at Norwich Credit: PA The Canaries happened to be on a pre-season tour of Scotland — where they would play games against Raith Rovers, St Johnstone and Airdrie. Askou scored in the win over Airdrie — but it was an incident in the closed-door victory over Saints that Gunn remembers. He said: 'We'd just got relegated from the Championship and we were offered Jens by his agent so we had him in for the games to have a look at him. 'In the game we played on the training pitch at St Andrews he attacked a clearance and his header must have gone 60 yards back the way it had come. 'That gave us an idea of what he was like. 'He was a central defender and he was tough, uncompromising, competitive and physical. 'I liked what I had seen from Jens and I sat down and had a couple of conversations with him. 'He was quite a steely character — he knew what he wanted. 'For us, he was an easy signing on a free transfer. 'The wages were affordable but I was away from Norwich before we really got the chance to work together. Stuart Kettlewell reveals if he regrets quitting Motherwell in exclusive first interview 'We lost our first game of the season 7-1 to Colchester but he didn't play in it because his work permit hadn't arrived. 'He played in a League Cup tie at Yeovil the following midweek, which we won comfortably, and we stayed down in the West Country because we were playing at Exeter on the Saturday. 'We drew 1-1 there and Jens scored our goal — but by then I was on a train back to Norwich because I'd been sacked on the Friday! 'Paul Lambert came in as the new manager and he brought a few of his own players in. 'Guys like Fraser Forster and Russell Martin joined the club around about that time. 'Jens played a few games but probably not as many as he would have liked to and after a couple of seasons he eventually went back to Denmark. 'Over the years we've kept in touch by text message. 'When I saw he'd started in coaching I'd send him good luck messages and I've probably got a WhatsApp trail for all his moves. 3 Jens Berthel Askou playing for Norwich Credit: Getty 'It's always nice when guys you've maybe helped along the way on their playing or coaching journey get decent jobs. 'It's good to see that he's gone on and worked at very good clubs since he stopped playing — like IFK Gothenburg, Sparta Prague and FC Copenhagen. 'And it's odd that he's ended up in the top division in Scotland as a coach when he started there as a player for Norwich. 'Maybe the fact he was willing to come to us on trial as a player tells you a bit about his character, his willingness to give things a go. 'I was well aware of what had happened with his predecessor at Motherwell and when I saw he'd got the job there on Thursday I sent him a message wishing him well at Fir Park. 'In the message I told him I knew Nick Daws, the Motherwell head of recruitment, and also goalkeeper Aston Oxborough. 'Aston might well have been in the academy at Norwich at the time so it could be that Jens will remember him. 'The agency I work for represents Jack Butland and I'm up in Scotland every now and then for games. 'If I'm at a Rangers versus Motherwell game next season I'll make a point of looking Jens up. 'It's a good career move for him and I wish him all the very best at Motherwell.' Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
