Talent 2580 is a series of free interactive panel discussions held in October at The Collective as part of NSW Small Business Month.

Julia Dunn from CUC Goulburn feels that attracting talent in regional areas is easier while retaining them is an issue. "Retaining them isn't just about how much you pay them. That may work for some people some of the time," she says.

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Other members of the panel were Brownyn Temple from TAFE, Adam Lambert from House of Smoke & Fire, Jaemin Frazer (The Insecurity Project) and Tamara Craig (NSW Department of Communities & Justice).

Brownyn Temple from TAFE said that training staff and giving them flexible timings to achieve that is invaluable. "Training is invaluable for businesses, their profits and employees. It helps to motivate and retain them," she said.

Adam Lambert, the owner of House of Smoke & Fire, is of the opinion that it's the encouraging environment being provided to the employees that matter.

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"You want them to work with you and not necessarily for you. I need to give my staff a reason to come in the door, enjoy and be a part of the team," Mr Lambert said.

The panel felt that flexibility, professional development and motivation to be a part of a project or something they are interested in helps retain employees.

Daryl Weekes, President of the Goulburn Chamber of Commerce, encourages business owners to take advantage of the events.

The next panel discussion on 'Grow with disability employment' will be held on October 22.

Registrations are essential and need to be made for those who wish to attend in-person or those who wish to view via the Zoom live stream. They can be made at: www.talent2580.eventbrite.com.au

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