Skills network links HR professionals ahead of layoffs

PR Log (Press Release) – Apr 16, 2009 – The Skills Universe is a network for HR consultants, training providers and professionals involved in skills development to get networking online.

“People who are active in social networks are paid more, less likely to be sacked, and if they are dismissed are more likely to find another position again quickly,” writes Julliette Powel, media entrepreneur and author.

Getting to know those working in training and skills development is even more important in a recession.  Considering Bersin and Associates’ recently published annual study, “2009 Corporate Learning Factbook,” which reveals that the US corporate training market has dropped 11% over the last year – the lowest in more than a decade.

The Skills Universe is a meeting place for professionals to log in, read news, ask for assistance and interact with a number of experts in connected industries. Registration is free, and members are welcome to upload photos and videos, join groups, take part in forums, write blog posts, personalise pages and more.

According to Josh Bersin, President of Bersin and Associates, "Today’s business world demands a combination of formal and informal learning with an emphasis on collaboration, knowledge sharing, social networking, coaching, and mentoring. While formal, instructor-led training is not going away, it is becoming a smaller and smaller percentage of training budgets.

“Business, HR, and learning leaders must think differently about corporate training and focus on those informal and collaborative strategies that will save money and increase the breadth of organisational learning."

In order to become of member of the Skills Universe, which is the brainchild of the Skills Portal creator, Alan Hammond, simply access the home page, register and start networking.

Hammond created the Skills Universe as a means to get the maximum benefit out of HR resources at a time when retrenchments and unemployment is likely to pick up in South Africa.

The Skills Portal is ideal for those professionals to meet and share ideas and advice, while communicating easily and efficiently with peers.