Employee retention: How can you keep your staff?

Do you find yourself losing your best employee's to "other opportunities"? While salary plays a significant role in job satisfaction, don't labour under the misconception that this is the only key to keeping your staff! Here are some of EBR's top tips for maintaining your best employees!

Clarity

Get clear on where that employee is headed in their role. Changing their job description and expectations can cause unnecessary stress to your staff! Keep them aware of their goals and responsibilities, and what kind of career progression and personal growth they can expect. Most importantly, if you are understaffed you should avoid overloading your team with too much work. If your employee feels overwhelmed and incapable of completing their tasks, they are less likely to commit to the job, and more likely to seek work elsewhere.

Management style

It is often said that employees don't leave their job, but rather their managers. Your management style can play a big part in making your employees feel comfortable and happy. What does your management style say about you? Click here for more information.

Communication

Hold staff meetings to keep your team aware of the latest updates. Keeping them involved will make them feel part of the team. Make sure they have the opportunity to provide you with feedback, and constantly involve your team in work improvement programs. Giving them a say means they can let you know what areas they are unhappy about so you can try to address weaker or less attractive areas of the position.

Recognition

Did your employee reach their goal this month? Or perhaps exceeded beyond your expectations? Recognise their achievements by holding a private meeting and rewarding them for their success. Ask them if they would mind making it known to the rest of the team, then when you have permission announce it in your next team meeting. People like to be rewarded for their hard work, and giving them incentives to do well will not only benefit you in managing to retain your staff members, but also in inducing higher productivity levels.

Environment

Having a few plants around the office is not the only way to keep your staff happy. Provide them with some food to nibble on during your Monday morning team meeting, and organise staff events. You can have a social committee where members donate to raise enough funds to have Friday night drinks and bowling! Give your staff members a reason to get up in the morning and come to work!

[Source: About.com]