Organizational Learning for Competitive Advantage

Recently, I was honored to speak at a conference of HR executives of printing companies and related businesses. Among the terrific speakers were representatives of a law firm specializing in employment law. They offered ways in which employers can avoid potential problems and challenges. They were especially helpful in bringing the group up to date with changes (and potential changes) in state and federal laws, and rules and regulations that affect employee rights and employers’ responsibilities. And what a list it is!

I was struck by the following thought. The companies represented at this excellent conference have created a significant competitive advantage for themselves. As a result of their active participation, they are far better informed than their counterparts in all areas of human resource management and the ever changing and increasingly onerous legal requirements facing employers of all sizes. I don’t envy those businesses who were not represented at this important meeting. Without a doubt, they will be less informed about these new mandates and will therefore be less able to plan smartly to ensure compliance and commitment. The potential exposure their business may face is significant.

The importance of active participation at conferences and events like this cannot be overstated. Irrespective of the subject matter, there is no substitute for getting out and learning all you can about changing business conditions, regulations, opportunities, and applications. The peer networking and professional relationships that result from participating in conferences and workshops are additional benefits.

So, whether it’s a multi-day conference, workshop, or industry trade show (remember those?), plan to have your organization represented, ideally by more than one member of your team. Your people and your business will benefit greatly.

For information on planning for your business success, contact me at joe@ajstrategy.com.