Training and development: An investment in your people

As municipalities and fire departments look to tighten their budget belts, some tough decisions are sure to be made. One area sure to be evaluated is the budget for training and professional development. Cities and departments who reduce or eliminate this item are taking a short-term and short-sided view of how important it is, especially when budgets are tight, to ensure your employees have access to the latest technologies and techniques to be the most efficient and effective employees they can be. And while they are working extra hard to "do more with less" you can show them how much you appreciate their efforts by rewarding them with additional training and development. It is truly a "win-win" scenario. The employee feels appreciated, and the employer gains the benefit of a smarter employee. I cannot think of a better way to spend a budget dollar than on training and development.

Richard B. Gasaway, PhD, EFO, CFO
http://www.richgasaway.com/