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Despite being the world’s second most populous country, India faces a talent crunch. Here’s how to confront this paradox.
February 09, 2010
India -- the world’s second most populous country, with more than 48.7 million college graduates -- surprisingly faces a talent crunch. To tackle this problem, most companies have followed a conventional path that hasn’t been effective. Time for a new approach.
Too many managers focus on fixing people’s weaknesses -- or worse, they simply ignore employees altogether. This doesn’t boost performance. But Gallup has found that if your manager focuses on your strengths, your chances of being actively disengaged at work are only 1 in 100.
Almost daily, companies are cutting workers, and morale and productivity are suffering as a result. In this environment, a strengths-based approach is vital because it creates hope, opens the doors to untapped potential, and brings out the best in people and in companies.
Since the financial crisis began last year, more than 30 banks have gone under in the United States alone. U.S. Bank’s financials, however, remain fundamentally sound, thanks to its conservative lending practices and an intense focus on people.