Tag Archives: COVID-19

Human Resource Outsourcing (HRO) is a service where companies can transfer their Human Resource (HR) functions to an external consultant / team in the absence of a Human Resource Department or specific HR skills. 

There are many benefits to outsourcing all or parts of your Human Resource function. Having access to knowledgeable and experienced Human Resource consultants is one of them. Human Resource Outsourcing can significantly add value to any organization no matter size, industry or location, by reducing operational /administrative costs while improving efficiency.  

This approach allows companies the time to focus on their strategy and vision without spending time or have the hassle of administrative processes. 

Our comprehensive range of Human Resource Outsourcing Services (HRO) consists of:  

1) development and implementation of a strategic HR plan 

2) HR policies and procedures 

3)Employee handbooks

4) Performance Management

5) Compensation – Payroll and Benefits administration  

6) HRIS – HR Dashboard and Metrics 

7) IR and employee relations. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies to reassess their HR strategies to cope with the many concerns surrounding the organization and its people. Our Human Resource solutions are customized and tailored to the needs of our clients. We believe understanding our clients’ culture, objectives, internal and external stakeholders are critical to providing the best solutions. 

Chat with us to discuss your HR Outsourcing needs and how we can help you. Schedule a call with Mariska Seereeram at mariska@crsrecruitment.co.tt 

Author: Johanna Thomas 

 

By Angela Lee Loy, Chairman – Aegis Business Solutions, Eve Anderson Recruitment and Caribbean Resourcing Solutions

 

We can all agree that COVID-19 is going to be with us for a while and this is forcing us to change the way we do business. I don’t have a magic ball to see the future and how 2021 will evolve. But there are a few areas businesses can explore further for development and this is based on some key areas that emerged over the last year.

 

Are you reviewing your physical space?

Many companies are shrinking their offices spaces and testing the capabilities of their online networks. Although many parents are struggling to meet the demands of homeschooling their kids whilst managing work, the reality is, many of them may not have a reason to return to their physical office once things improve.

The Banking Sector is also reviewing their real estate space(s) and are restructuring based on their current and future needs. As they begin to restructure, some retail operations have already started exploring the process of moving inventory to increase sales transactions online. Foot traffic continues to decline therefore making rent and leases more difficult to sustain.

The landscape is changing at an unbelievable pace. The real estate business continues on decline as many of the traditional brick and mortar stores are now operating online or are in the process of transitioning to that model. This is happening globally. Our cities and downtown areas will evolve as we continue to move operations and customer experiences online in the Caribbean.

As a leader in any business, irrespective of the sector, it is important to invest the time now to move your operations online. It is extremely important to support your staff in getting the right tools, training and, developing the right attitudes for successful remote working.

 

Are you exploring new areas of service?

We have to pivot our business as the landscape changes. People need to re-examine and analyze which of their services cannot work during this pandemic and explore new areas for development.

One example is the hotel industry. Across the Caribbean, we are dependent on tourism. With a significant decline in air travel, our hotels and bed and breakfast businesses are suffering and a critical part of this is food and beverage revenue. Some restaurants have implemented ‘curbside pick-up’ and others have reduced their services in one area to make room for new services. This is to help generate the revenue and to also support the business through this challenging time. There are even those business owners and sole traders who have completely changed their entire business. I anticipate many people may take this route and completely start another business.

As a business owner, you must continue to look at your business differently now, without the emotional attachment of your original vision. Businesses have to evolve. Think about what services are needed at present and determine how you can meet those needs with the current resources you have.  Continuously ask yourself, ‘What else can I do?’ and do your research and adjust accordingly.

 

How often have you asked your employees, ‘How are you doing?’

We all have different personalities. Introverts may enjoy working from home at this time and avoiding their videos on Zoom meetings. Extroverts on the other hand, need social interaction. They may feel isolated at times and miss coming in the office environment to see their colleagues.

As we continue to navigate the challenges ahead in 2021, we have to book time in our diaries to check-in on those who work for us. Exploring ways to continuously keep our employees engaged in our business during this challenging period is important. As an owner, ask yourself, ‘How can I better understand the challenges my employees are experiencing so that we can work in solidarity with each other?’

 

Find new ways to support local

As foreign exchange continues to be more difficult to obtain, businesses should begin to explore how to produce things more locally and collaborate with local suppliers, innovators and research institutions. We cannot do it alone. But, we can do it together. This is the time to innovate, plan and prepare. This could well be a time when your businesses ‘leap frogs’ into the future.

Our manufacturing sector is extremely vibrant in Trinidad and Tobago and there are a lot of things that can be produced locally. This could be a period of innovation and adaptability for the manufacturing sector.

 

Invest in technology

If you are already investing in technology, that’s great. But it does not end there. As a business owner, I am constantly looking into new technologies with my IT Manager to ensure I have the competitive advantage. Technology is changing so rapidly. As we buy a new phone or software, there is already another version out on the market.  Delve into the details of your business to explore what efficiencies you can create through the use of technology so that you can focus on your staff to manage more meaningful work.

One of the areas I am fascinated by is – hydroponics in the agriculture sector. I firmly believe we need to continue to encourage people to grow our own food, buy local and support the new local products many people are developing. If you are not into technology and innovating  your services, you will be left behind.

Further your knowledge

The world is your oyster. You are no longer limited by geographic location to learn something new and with technology, you can have a wide array of products and services to market and sell.  Education is going to be key.  What education do you need to give your children now as we move forward? What skills do you need to learn as a business owner to move your business more online? We can look at every area across all industries and dissect it – how can I learn to do this better? What are the tech trends in my industry? There is so much to learn.

 

Be an authentic leader

People are struggling and things are getting more difficult. Whilst profitability is important, in 2021 it is not the most important thing as we work towards resetting. We have to think about the people working with us. If we don’t have people working, economies cannot move forward. Yes, businesses will take a massive hit and these businesses will dive into reserves for survival.

As difficult as it is, we have to look at maximizing your people. You can come together as an organization, communicate the situation and let them know what compromises can be done. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

You do not always know individual employees’ situation, so you need to have these honest conversations and be prepared to be vulnerable. Your employees will surprise you. The profitability will come. You cannot think short-term for long-term solutions but you need to work together.

If you are a leader and reading this – don’t lose sight of what is important. You have to understand this – ‘It is important to have business but the business you have is dependent on the people working for you.’ If you don’t treat your people right, you cannot expect them to give 100 percent? It is a partnership.

Shareholders with a dual role of director are in the position to determine their remuneration, as well as, they had many years to build their nest egg. Managers  and staff do not have that discretion. During these COVID times, shareholders/directors could survive on less.

 

There are going to be many things you can do differently in 2021 but there are some fundamentals that are emerging:

  • Isolation is real. Stay connected regularly.
  • Technology is the way forward. Educate yourself.
  • Retail space is on the decline. Build an online business.
  • Support local and seek opportunities.
  • Authentic leadership is key at this time.
  • Whilst profitability is important, it is not the main thing.

 

Angela Lee Loy is Chairman of leading business outsourcing firm, Aegis Business Solutions and the two longest standing recruitment agencies in the Caribbean, Eve Anderson Recruitment and Caribbean Resourcing Solutions. All three companies work together as a business hub for local and international companies operating in the Caribbean including Guyana. For more information, visit www.aegistt.com, www.eveandersonrecruitment.com, www.crsrecruitment.co.tt

View our story on page 19 and other stories here – https://amchamtt.com/Linkage-3/2020

 

As a result of COVID-19, some of us are working remotely. Being confined to home, social distancing and constantly washing our hands has become the “new normal”. Yet, we need to maintain a work-life balance when working from home.

Here are some activities one can partake in to do something fun and not work related.

  • Learn a new language. Being able to communicate in another language can open a world of opportunities. New friends, travel or even employment. On the job front, it gives one the competitive edge amongst their peers as knowing another language is considered a skill. This time presents a unique opportunity to learn a language and to connect personal as well as professionally with people in online spaces.

 

  • Host a watch party with family and friends. Friends and family are connecting online and hosting watch parties for their collective favourite shows or movies. Netflix, Disney + and other streaming services are uploading new releases and even entire series of classics. Pop some popcorn, wear something comfortable, relax and enjoy the show with those dearest to you.

 

  • Hone your cooking skills. The pandemic has changed the way we plan or even cook our meals. Take this time to sharpen your skills and perfect delicious dishes. Cooking may seem daunting but one key tip is preparing your ingredients beforehand can make the experience less overwhelming. Also, check out your favourite celebrity chefs or foodie influencers youtube channels for recipes or even cook a meal with a friend to see who is truly the master chef.

 

  • Plant a home garden. You don’t need much space to start gardening. Firstly, choose the right location where there is adequate sunlight and the soil is moist. Start off small and simple by planting seasoning, herbs, lettuce or pimento peppers. Set aside days that you will be gardening so that you can tend to your crops. You will be proud when you pick fresh ingredients that you grew from your garden to cook for the family.

 

  • Get crafty. You always wanted to paint a feature wall in your living room or make your own natural soap and candles. Crave out time in your week to work on any project that will get your creativity flowing and your hands working. There are many online tutorials to assist in turning a novice into an expert.

 

  • Take an online dance class. Since we are all indoors, this is a great way to remain physically active while simultaneously spending time with the whole family. Hip Hop, Jazz, Modern, Soca, Dancehall or Afrobeats are some of the dances genres one can do. Make it interesting by allowing each family member to choose the style of dance for a particular week thus everyone can learn something new and get out of their comfort zone.

 

  • Time to meditate. Taking care of your mind is important. So find time during the day to meditate for 5 to 10 minutes. Some say the morning is the best time to meditate because there are fewer distractions but it all depends on your schedule. Meditation is one of the best ways to help you find a sense of calmness and clarity, reduce stress, promote healthy, restful sleep and increase focus. So schedule it in and meditate away!
CRS Recruitment in Guyana
Our social media and marketing intern, Futima Fraser met up with our General Manager, Mariska Seereeram to learn more about our company CRS and how we are shaping our space in the recruitment industry in the Caribbean and now in Guyana.

Adapting to new climates

When it comes to talent recruitment and building business relationships, Caribbean Resourcing Solutions (CRS) aims to always be accessible and adaptable. CRS prides itself on being the premier Caribbean based agency specifically for technical recruitment, and in keeping with their vision of supplying candidates to all of the Caribbean, they have taken a proactive approach when it comes to entering the oil and gas industry in Guyana.

General Manager, Mariska Seereeram said,

“One of the key things for CRS is to let companies know that they continue to evolve in facilitating processes virtually and are able to operate remotely.”

Supporting local in Guyana

CRS shows a real take-charge attitude in supporting the local businesses in Guyana, CRS is very driven towards local firms and cares for their livelihood. In a statement, Ms Seereeram said, “It’s keeping up to date and informed with developments in Guyana and how these companies would be affected and developing solutions beforehand. Building a partnership with local organisations is also key.” There’s no doubt that businesses who choose to collaborate with CRS, will be in great hands.

As CRS embarks on this new venture in Guyana, you may be wondering if anyone from around the world, including locals can join their database of candidates? Well it’s now easier and more accessible than you thought. Once applicants apply and send their information to CRS and it’s received, they contact the candidate and get an understanding for what they are looking for.

Maintaining relationships

“I believe that’s what sets us apart from the competition – we get on a personal level with candidates. This is also a plus for our clients whereby we are sending candidates that have a skillset that we understand fully and we know will be ideally suited. So expectations between clients and candidates are aligned.” says Mariska. This demonstrates the kind of meaningful relationships CRS cultivates between employers and employees.

As it pertains to Covid-19, there have been some challenges, but recruitment is not one of them. CRS has been able to adapt and also help companies adapt to the virtual world as communication is key in this time. Though the borders may be closed and business at a stand still, CRS is committed to helping companies evolve and find alternatives.

CRS has a track record that proves they have what it takes to support companies and create lasting relationships.

Due to their forward thinking, they have established, through their registered office, partnerships with local firms in Guyana. They are determined to make this current endeavor a success. Through these times CRS stresses the importance of adaptability and continues to make themselves accessible to all the world.

Author: Futima Fraser

Guyana’s developing energy industry has led to numerous opportunities for businesses, investments and prospective job seekers. With CRS establishing operations and partnerships in Guyana, General Manager, Mariska Seereeram shared her insights on this development.

She discussed how CRS can provide recruitment and talent management support to local and international businesses entering Guyana.

CRS focuses on talent management

CRS specialises in recruiting in the I.T. and technical field and this is a key service offered to firms in Guyana’s energy sector. CRS General Manager noted,

“The focus is on talent management solutions. Partnering with or assisting local businesses with their business objectives, strategies and understanding how we can assist them. Whether it be sourcing, full cycle recruitment or part of that function, training, interviewing process, on-boarding and even psychometric assessment.”

There are many ways in which CRS can provide support to firms in Guyana. Seereeram shared, “Recruitment is our core service but we support local businesses by providing solutions to problems beforehand. As a recruiter, providing advisory skills is key in recruitment. Keeping firms informed about ongoing developments in Guyana and how can this affect their business are some of the ways we can also lend assistance.”

With companies such as ExxonMobil in Guyana and recent discoveries of oil and gas in Suriname, CRS had the foresight to set up offices in Guyana.  This facilitation will assist firms and build strong relationships.

The need for talent management solutions is evident and when implemented strategically can align with the organization’s objectives and goals. Sourcing talent for various functions in engineering and I.T. are some of the areas CRS discovered is in most demand.

CRS is ready to partner with those companies and manage their recruiting needs.  This agency is also able to partner with other recruiting firms in Guyana to assist with those projects.

Attracting the best technical talent

The recruitment agency also lends support in talent acquisition which allows firms to acquire exceptional and skilled professionals in their respective departments. To note, attracting talent and aligning them with a company that is suitable and the right fit is also of importance. For example, a specialized engineer with specific skills is hard to find. CRS works with companies to develop attractive packages. Thus, compensation is an important course of action to recognize, reward employees and their contributions.  This acknowledges their value to the organization.

Innovation is key during COVID-19

It is clear that recruitment is an ongoing process and that it is evolving. Even in this unprecedented time, Mariska shared that COVID-19 has not stopped recruitment. It has forced companies to be innovative and adjust to this new normal. She stated, “In terms of COVID-19 we have been able to adapt.

Communication between client and candidate has become crucial during this time. The realisation is that businesses, employers and employees cannot do it alone. CRS is competent to recruit in the I.T. and technical field and can offer sound guidance in talent acquisition and compensation.

As firms chart their next quarters, CRS will be a wise resource to companies wishing to conduct business or employ people in Guyana.

To schedule a meeting, email info@crsrecruitment.co.tt

Author: Johanna Thomas