The retention of talent is essential for institutions aiming to sustain competitive advantage and drive progress in their fields. Effective talent retention strategies enhance organizational knowledge and foster a culture of loyalty and commitment among employees. This section will provide insights into the significance of talent retention and the strategies that institutions can implement to cultivate a supportive environment for their researchers and staff. By leveraging resources from the EURAXESS network, institutions can better understand and apply best practices in talent management to ensure sustainable growth and development.
One of the essential instruments that promotes talent retention is the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is a tool initiated by the European Commission to align human resource management in research institutions with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers. This strategy aims to create a more attractive European labor market for researchers by improving recruitment processes, working conditions, and career development opportunities thus fostering the retention of research talent in the ERA. Institutions implementing HRS4R can receive the HR Excellence in Research Award, which enhances their reputation and attractiveness as employers in the European Research Area.
For more information on what benefits the Award offers for your institution, see: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/hrexcellenceaward
Another key instrument for retaining talent in the European Research Area is ResearchComp: The European Competence Framework for Researchers.
ResearchComp is a tool that helps researchers assess and develop their own transversal skills, higher education institutions and training providers adapt their offer to researchers as well as employers to be aware of the wide set of competences of researchers. For more information see: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/jobs-research/researchcomp-european-competence-framework-researchers_en.
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Training programmes and career services design
By drawing on the insigths and the best practices from existing initiatives, such as structured skill development, experiential learning, reflective practices, and entrepreneurship support, research institutions can create robust training programs and career services. This not only enhances the professional development of researchers but also strengthens the overall research ecosystem.
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Mentoring programmes play a crucial role in facilitating both personal and professional development for researchers, while also enhancing the capacity and reputation of institutions within the wider research community. These programs effectively aid in the career advancement of researchers and promote international collaboration and knowledge sharing. Institutions looking to implement mentoring initiatives can take advantage of the extensive resources and frameworks provided by the EURAXESS network.
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Networking and Matchmaking Events
Understand the key considerations for planning networking events tailored for PhDs and academics.
Discover how to arrange a variety of smaller social gatherings.
Draw inspiration from exemplary best practices.