Turnover costs us money, frustrates us, and interferes with the production of the department. It’s so important to find ways to keep our good employees and yet we probably don’t spend too much time figuring out why people stay.
The obvious things like competitive salaries, good benefits, incentives and bonuses are all important, but today we have to look outside the box to retain our top performers.
Today’s generation likes being part of a community. They like an inviting and open environment where they can collaborate, so think about making some subtle changes that can have a big impact. Consider ditching the old cubes or private bench space. Create open tables where people work together and share ideas. Make your common rooms or lunch rooms bright and a place people like to take a break and mingle.
Put someone in charge of FUN. Find out what people in your department like to do for fun and then have them put together an extra curricula activity for all to take part in after hours, like a bowling league.
Communicate, communicate, and communicate. People like to know what’s going on and what’s coming next, especially as it relates to them. It keeps them motivated. If your employees understand where you want to go, it’s much more likely they will work hard to help you get there.
Praise and reward. Don’t let hard work go unnoticed. Pay attention and catch your employees doing good things. Then call it out in a meeting, or send them a handwritten note. Get to know people and what they like. If it’s in your budget, buy something just for them that shows your appreciation and interest in them, such as tickets to a game of their favorite team, or a concert by an artist you know they like.
Talented people always have options, but they’re the ones you really want to keep. There will always be someone offering a few dollars more, but these suggestions are ways to think outside the box and create an environment talented people don’t want to leave.
Thoughts…….. Contact me at abbe@TECResourceCenter.com