Exploring the perceptions of knowledge transfer and skills retention of baby boomers within South African mining organisations

Abstract

In the business environment of the twenty first century, knowledge can be a key differentiator for organisations. Furthermore, organisations who have employees with industry- and organisation specific skills are able to gain a competitive advantage in their markets. By retaining knowledge and skills within the organisation can ensure that organisations develop and grow their knowledge and skills pool by means of accumulation. With the baby boomer cohort starting to enter into retirement, organisations are face with the risk of losing valuable knowledge and skills if not transferred and retained properly. Considering the important role knowledge transfer and skill retention can play in the current business environment it is important to identify how organisations perceive knowledge transfer and skill retention and to determine whether they are aware of the impact it can have on the organisation if the valuable knowledge and skills are lost. The objective of this research was to gain insight into the perceptions South African mining organisations have concerning knowledge transfer and skill retention of baby boomers. The research further aimed to identify strategies to assist organisations in their knowledge transfer and skill retention efforts. This research study made use of a qualitative research design based on the social constructivism paradigm. The researcher followed a qualitative descriptive approach making use of both purposive sampling and convenience sampling. Data was gathered from managers in South African mining organisations (N=16). The data was gathered by means of qualitative surveys, using the QuestionPro platform and analysed by implementing the steps of thematic analysis. The results indicated that all participants regard knowledge transfer and skill retention of baby boomers as important, however further results indicate that not all organisations have adequate knowledge transfer and skill retention strategies in place. This research study highlights the negative effects of poor knowledge transfer and skill retention strategies as perceived by mining managers. This study also discusses the recommended strategies for effective knowledge transfer and skill retention of baby boomers as identified by participants. Recommendations were made for future research and practice.