Bangalore: Steve Jobs medical leave has spread a spark of tension among the industries to find out a means to retain knowledge while top tech talents depart. Only 26 percent of the IT worker force consists of baby boomers where as the 74 percent consist of top tech talents and their departure will bring a huge impact. Here are some tips: Primarily, take inventory of those who are, or soon will be, retiring, people with special knowledge of products, services and/or customers from those who are leaving and also insight about work processes/workflow from these departing individuals. Secondly, designate which of your tech talent should spend extensive time with those departing staffers who know the most critical information. Thirdly, make employee retention one of the criteria you use to evaluate managers. Tie decisions about salary increases to this criterion. Quantify expectations to managers so goals are clear and they can track their own progress throughout the year. Above all this retention should start with the job interview. Describe department goals, culture, and day-to-day practices honestly and clearly during interviews. This way, there are no 'unpleasant surprises' after a new hire comes on board. Also ask job applicants to discuss their greatest professional accomplishment(s) to date, as well as what tech niches drive their passion. This helps you determine whether their strongest projects and interests intersect with your department's needs.