E-learning and skills development are essential to the future of human resources and payroll administration.
This is according to Teryl Schroenn, CEO at Accsys, who says whether or not decision makers believe in skills development levy policy, procedure or criteria, it is an investment that companies have to make and SA cannot afford to neglect.
As global markets continue to try to get to grips with the affects of widespread financial turmoil, she says, the question under consideration within key local industries is whether or not enough is being done to train and develop skills.
She also believes that in as far as the HR and payroll field is concerned, more needs to be done to equip job seekers with relevant skill sets as well as effectively recruit and place these individuals.
“It is, generally, understood amongst established, credible service providers targeting these specific industries that today job seekers require as much assistance and support as possible in their quest to secure employment.
Schroenn is also of the view that present day market conditions, consolidation, employment equity, competition for market share, retrenchment and other challenges facing those seeking employment means organisations need ongoing campaigns to endorse the need for education and skills development.
The pressing need for the industry, as a whole, and regulatory bodies such as the Sector Education and Training Authorities to work closer remains a headache for most stakeholders she adds.
Schroenn believes that one of the concerns within the industry is the lack of coverage or focus on HR and payroll at school level.
“A common feeling amongst experts within HR and payroll services is that school leavers are reluctant to pursue career opportunities, specifically within payroll administration.
“The general consensus is that many payroll administrators find themselves in the position by default,” she says.
“Many companies are reluctant to invest in training under normal conditions. In trying circumstances, such as that which is experienced during a recession and the need to curb expense, training usually takes a back seat.
“Unfortunately, this has the reverse effect because neglecting staff development can result in costly errors, low morale and negative impact on staff retention,” adds Schroenn.
In addition to saying, irrespective of how long it takes for the economic situation to right itself and how much investment in training and skills development is actually made, Schroenn also points out that untrained or unskilled personnel handling the payroll of a company is a definite risk to the organisation.
“The cost of taking a risk with having untrained or inexperienced payroll practitioners manage often vast amounts of money and entrusting them with the responsibility of compliance with tax and HR legislation, can be substantial.
“A renewed appreciation for the role of a payroll administrator and the need for ongoing training and skills development to reinforce career development and effective placement is what is required going forward,” says Schroenn.
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