Brain Drain

Meaning & Definition

Brain Drain is a term that describes the lack of skilled, talented, and high-performing employees leaving a region or organisation for other employment opportunities. Brain drain occurs for many reasons, such as increased salary, improved working conditions, promotion opportunities, etc. In Human Resource Management, the brain drain phenomenon represents challenges associated with retaining talented employees and achieving long-term viability of today’s workforce.

Important Aspects of Brain Drain

• The loss of skill has an impact on business continuity and productivity. 
• Additionally, it leads to an increase in recruitment, onboarding and training costs. 
• Lastly, it impacts both innovation and knowledge retention. 
• Creating opportunities for businesses to identify their employee engagement and career development gaps.
• Strengthens the business case for developing strong retention and succession strategies.

Legal & Regulatory Considerations

A specific legislative requirement cannot be established for this term.

Brain Drain Management includes:

• Retention and Engagement Policies.
• Learning, Development, and Career Progression Frameworks.
• Succession Planning and Knowledge Transfer Processes.

Proactive Human Resource policies can minimise the long term loss of employee talent.