Everyone’s searching for answers to the recruitment-and-retention dilemma, but one thing seems certain: Education and training will be major components of the eventual solution.

That’s Gary Boomer’s take, anyway. In a recent article, the Boomer Consulting president offers seven rules for developing a training and learning culture in your organization. And he’s not just talking about helping your employees meet CPE requirements; anybody can do that.

So what is a training and learning culture? “It’s one in which the firm grows smarter and more productive,” Boomer explains. “Mediocrity is unacceptable to firms that embrace it. The alternative results in a downward spiral as the entire firm grows ineffective.” Firms that resist embracing such a culture “will face increasing difficulty retaining and attracting Generation X and Y employees,” he adds.

To create a world-class learning and training environment, says Boomer, you need the following:

1. A champion of the strategy
2. An education director or learning coordinator
3. The ability to foster relationships
4. Accountability
5. Facilities
6. Learning management systems
7. Budget resources

Get details about each of the requirements here, then tell us: How are you planning to meet the training expectations of today’s young professionals?