I came across a great article in this morning’s Globe and Mail highlighting the shift in the ongoing “War for Talent”. Throughout this most recent recession, the war diminished into what could essentially be considered a skirmish. With most organizations laying off employees, there was a significant lack of focus on talent.

However, the times have changed. With the upswing in the market, and the sense that it’s once again “game on” the first shots of the battle have begun. This time however, it’s from the actual “Talent”.  The focus now is on employers to figure out how to keep their best and brightest. According to Jennifer Myers, the articles author:

Re-earning the trust of workers should be top of mind for every employer, experts say. After a year and a half of layoffs, wage freezes and increased workloads, employees are feeling weary, dispirited, fed up – and ready to seek other pastures. As Canada shakes off the recession and the turnaround picks up speed, it will be employees who do the dumping, not employers.

That means employers have to take real measures to retain employees who are preparing to jump ship, the pros say.

How would you feel if you lost 60% of your workforce? The fact is, thanks to the recent sense of optimism, the article goes on to say:

Six in 10 employees intend to pursue new job opportunities in 2010, according to a recent survey, and another 21 per cent said “maybe” and are already networking toward it. Another 6 per cent of the 904 North American workers polled … said a move is unlikely, but they’ve nevertheless updated their résumés. Just 13 per cent said they intend to stay put.

Guess who those 13% are… likely not your best.

Therefore, now is the time to get your organization focused. According to a recent study, here’s how you can help shore up your “A” Players:

What companies are willing to do to retain employees when the economy improves:

Increase investment in professional development: 54%

Promote top performers: 46%

Raise salaries: 42%

Reinstate or increase bonuses: 28%

Enhance benefits: 25%

Whatever you choose, it’s now your turn. Good luck.