Concept for Developing Human Resources

Human resources development is a common task - its design and implementation involves all staff members: the employees, supervisors, political staff, the personnel department, equal opportunities commissioners, staff council and disabled staff representatives.

The BMBF has a concept for human resources development, the development of which involved members of all career-track groups and departments.

To date, the following components of the concept for human resources development have entered into force:

• Guidelines for management and co-operation
• "Recognition motivates"
• Feedback for management and directorial staff
• Introduction of new employees
• Cooperation discussions

The guidelines for management and co-operation set forth the BMBF's definition of these concepts. Good management and co-operation are basic elements of any good working atmosphere. The BMBF values a cooperative leadership style. This includes openness and mutual trust, as well as delegation of responsibilities to individual employees. These elements not only enhance staff motivation and satisfaction, but also improve work effectiveness.

The best way to enhance motivation is to recognize and acknowledge staff members' work and performance. The purpose of the "recognition motivates" component is to enhance motivation in the BMBF via the development of principles and special techniques for communicating acknowledgement and recognition.

Feedback for management is an instrument for improving management behaviour and communication. Its purpose is to give management staff the opportunity to compare their own perception of their style of management with the ways that style is viewed by the staff for whom they are responsible.

Cooperation discussions also offer improved communication between employees and managers. This can include consulting on tasks, cooperation, support of employees, or the need for further training.

New BMBF employees will now have an easier time taking up their new positions. In addition to separate introductions for a new staff members own position, general introductions are also offered, along with the opportunity to take part in a mentorship programme or attend continued training - even for use outside of the BMBF. The BMBF "Nachwuchsgruppe" also offers opportunities to network.