NEW YORK, NY  In a recent U.S. Survey of human resource executives nationwide conducted by Deloitte Consulting, more than 70% of the 123 respondents say incoming workers with inadequate skills pose the greatest threat to business performance over the next three years, followed by baby boomer retirement (61%) and the inability to retain key talent (55%).

In only three years, the first wave of baby boomers will turn 62, the average retirement age in North America, Europe and Asia.  According to the Deloitte Consulting survey, one-third of U.S. companies expect to lose 11 percent or more of their current workforce to retirements by 2008.

Life sciences, energy and the public sector will be the hardest hit with manufacturing, consumer business and financial services industries close behind.  The National Association of Manufacturers revealed in a recent survey that more than 80% of U.S. manufacturers face a shortage of skilled machinists, raft workers and technicians.  Further, the U.S. Department of Education predicts that 60% of new jobs in the 21st century will require skills possessed by only 20% of the current workforce.

Contact HRPS today to arrange for an HR Checkup to ensure that you are utilizing the best human resources practices for your firm.  This no cost, no obligation checkup is something that should be a part of your firm' ongoing improvement goals.