Let There Be (Hard)Rock September 24, 2008 Fail-safe strategies for Keeping top talent
By Jeremy Cohen
As the accompanying photo would suggest, Jim Knight doesn't exactly conform to the stereotype of the stuffed-shirt upper manager. Of course, when your title is senior director of training and development for Hard Rock International, a rock n' roll-friendly image is hardly a detriment.
But while Knight may appear to be happy-go-lucky, he's dead serious when it comes to employee performance management—which just so happens to have been the topic of his Tuesday Motivation Show session in Chicago. Specifically, he shared his philosophical approaches to managing and measuring performance, as well as specific Hard Rock tools that have delivered proven and effective results. While his message crossed generational lines, special emphasis was given to the Millennials now entering the workforce.
Some of the subjects covered included a focus on recruiting initiatives, storytelling, philanthropy, communication vehicles, internal promotions, leadership development, reward programs, public recognition and performance management. Prior to the session Knight said, "I will showcase the elements and differences of the Vicious Circle and Virtuous Circle…I will discuss the intangibles like hiring diverse individuals who may be square pegs in a round hole…but are looking for a better home."
Ultimately, Knight aimed to provide a better understanding of the factors that lead people to stay or leave, in addition to learning how to become a better employer-of-choice. "Although too irreverent and unpredictable for some, you will still walk away with some great best practices," Knight promised, "all told through the spirit of rock n' roll."
Jim Knight presented at yesterday's Motivation Show session "Retaining Rock Stars."
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