![Image of emergency box being broken](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2023-01/AdobeStock_196623572.jpeg?itok=5_C-AlVk)
It’s time for local government agencies to take urgent measures with their talent recruitment and retention.
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MissionSquare Research Institute has identified key strategies and actions for public service employers to consider in their recruitment and retention efforts.
![Illustration of a giant "Z" with people around it](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2023-01/AdobeStock_454403065.jpg?itok=EAJCnKjv)
Consider the purpose-driven Gen Z perspective before, during, and especially after the hiring process.
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We should recognize that performance evaluations aren’t effective and instead develop a straightforward performance evaluation system that emphasizes employee development.
![Aerial photo of McKinney, Texas](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2023-01/AdobeStock_528721829.jpg?itok=4GDIVFSk)
Built from the ground up, the city of McKinney’s program has resulted in increased employee engagement, stronger teamwork, and higher staff morale.
![Image of Leadership ICMA project team members in front of a Needham fire truck](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2023-01/IMG_2971.jpg?itok=uFWNi8vA)
A Leadership ICMA project for a Boston suburb turned into something greater as the team realized their research and recommendations are applicable to many local governments.
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They are more common, complex, and complicated than they appear to be.
![Photo of two women colleagues high-fiving](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2023-01/Untitled.png?itok=V6LAUDiO)
Keep these things in mind as second in command.
![Photo of David Ellis](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2023-01/David_Ellis_Web_HZ_XL.jpg?itok=rNWRHxiE)
Celebrating Black History Month with David Ellis, county manager and board member of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators