Hi BriscoeSearch,
I agree with what you're saying. I think that maybe the problems in the mining and resource sectors are at least partly caused by poor management and finance practices. While I have not worked in these sectors, I know of a few who do, and they don't have many good things to report about their employers.
It looks to me like these companies may be lacking in strategic direction and planning. Instead they seam to be just reacting to external events as they happen rather than planning for changes in economic activity, which would help them through times like this. This is evidenced by their lack of cash reserves and cash flow problems, as well as the way they appear to just get rid of people at the drop of a hat. Additionally, I've heard that the contracts offered to these workers, along with strange pay cycles and arrangements are also not very attractive compared to what may be offered in professional industries or office based jobs.
Perhaps the treatment of these workers, the lack of information provided to them about what is happening, and the fact that they are given no notice prior to retrenchment would make it difficult to attract and retain good people. As you said, people do talk about these experiences to their friends and families.
As WA seams to be mostly focused on these industries, maybe the creative and intelligent people are moving to Sydney and Melbourne where they can find mentally stimulating, corporate work.
I believe that many things in the mining and resource sectors may need to change, including workplace cultures, financial management, and many
HR related factors. Making these changes requires a thorough change process (won't go into this here as it's off the topic), which must start with these companies being willing to change in the first place.
Of course, a good sense of humour has always kept me going.....
I have to say that for the reasons outlined above, as well as the things you have stated, I have never had the desire to take up an
HR role in these industries, which can reduce the number of jobs I can search for should I want to look for something else. In fact, finding a reliable
HR/
OD recruitment specialist in Perth is proving difficult. The prospect of having to jump through hoops by doing written tests that have nothing to do with work related skills is very off putting. What ever happened to catching up informally on neutral territory.
Food for thought.
Cheers
Michaela
