Ask an Expert: Staff retention
I don't find it too difficult to find new staff but they never seem to stay in the job for more than a few months. What can I do?
Our research says the top five things to do are:
• Communicate
Today's employees need to have their say, be listened to and have their ideas and feedback respected. Find out what your people think. Remember though - if you ask you must also listen and act. Do something positive.
• Manage their expectations
Tell people 'the way things are done around here' from day one. Some people want to know where they are going, when and how they will get there and what happens if something changes. Others are happy to come in, do a day's work and go without getting too involved. That's fine - just make sure you know who's who.
• Train and develop
People who know where they are going want you to help them get there. Today's mobile, confident, talented employee will go elsewhere if you don't give them a development plan that fits their needs.
• Lead
People leave people, not companies. Leaders have an incredible responsibility. For example, if the leader's always late, everyone else will be late. Ask yourself every day: why should people be led by you?
• Manage values
It doesn't need to be formal but people need a common vision, values and goals so they understand what needs to be done. Equally, employers need to identify what motivates and drives their people so they can get the best from everyone. If people know the destination they're more likely to stick with the journey.
Good luck!
Jane Sunley is managing director of HR consultancy Learn Purple
