Are you prepared for the upturn?

Welcome back and Happy New Year! Whatever's in store over the next twelve months, it's going to be critical to prepare for the much anticipated upturn. In our first podcast of the year we speak to HR professionals from Dyson, the UK Border Agency and Oxfam to find out how they're preparing for 2010. You can also listen to what Jackie Orme, our Chief Executive, is saying about the challenges that lie ahead.

Look out for a free report in next week's issue on what to expect in the coming year from
Dr John Philpott, our Chief Economic Adviser.

Thanks to all of you who voted in our last mini poll of 2009. It seems that common sense prevailed with 47% of you holding your Christmas parties on a Friday and only 6% of you anticipating high levels of absenteeism the day after the night before. Please take time to cast your vote in this week's poll on the proposed 1% hike in employers' National Insurance Contributions (NICs) from April 2011.

As promised you'll find lots to help you kick-start the new year in today's issue including: a diversity calendar, a new guide to internships and People Management's annual news quiz. And, if you're facing severe weather conditions, you might be interested in our press release that includes advice for employers.

Alison Gilbertson
Editor