Good Idea or Not?
Employees are eager to further their education. However, is this profitable for employers? According to a recent CBOS opinion poll, Poles like to take additional courses and generally expand their education. More than 51% of those polled are not satisfied with the level of education they have attained while approximately 48% are considering improving their professional qualifications. The more educated one is, the more certain he/she is that investing in education should be considered a priority. Employers’ requirements unquestionably have an impact on that approach. It is very difficult to make predictions as to when the financial crisis will come to an end. Companies need a workforce that can easily adapt to the demanding market conditions of today. What extra qualities does an employee bring to a company after competing post-graduate studies? He/she is undoubtedly more competent and knowledgeable.
“These are the most important non-tangible values for a company. If employees constantly improve their qualifications, the company is more likely to prosper and become more competitive which ultimately leads to improved financial results,” says Thierry Iovane, president of CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants). Post-graduate studies are in great demand both on the Polish labour market and abroad. Managers have much respect for workers who, after obtaining a university degree in a certain field, make the decision to work in a field that is different and complete related post-graduate studies. “These individuals are able to gather a great deal of knowledge in their field of expertise, gain access to the relevant literature and in case of problems know about sources of information where solutions can be found,” says an employment consultant. “While studying, they make acquaintances with people from similar business backgrounds which results in an exchange of ideas which, in turn, leads to improved performance at work.” Managers who are considering extra post-graduate courses for their employees have to be aware of the often substantial costs involved. Taking advantage of studies or courses that are in part financed by the European Social Fund often proves to be a sensible and cost-effective solution. One of the few disadvantages of having well-educated employees is that they may become overconfident, demand unreasonable salary raises or even leave the company. On the whole though, the advantages clearly outweigh the drawbacks.
Gazeta Wyborcza
