Employees are our life blood. They bring their energy, time, talents, and ideas to our businesses. They are what our customers and clients most often experience when they engage with our business.
Many things affect the customer experience, but nothing is more memorable than the person that serves them. Retention will forever be a critical building block of a successful and joyful business. Below are three strategies for employee retention.
See
Years ago, I participated in an employee review, where the employee came to tears when they heard the appreciation from their supervisor. They hadn’t been with the company that long, and they thought they were going to be fired. When your employees don’t receive feedback, they fill in the gaps and may assume you don’t think they are doing a good job. Take the time to give feedback and appreciation.
When you see people using their strengths, those areas that they maybe take for granted that stand out, make note. Let them know that you notice their strengths and find ways that they can use them. Even better, find their hidden gifts that they might not see, and help them tap that potential.
Connect
It is so easy to get so focused on work that we don’t take the time to really connect. Work is a social environment. For new hires, connect them to the social circle of the company.
As their leader, do you know your employee’s goals and struggles, both in their professional life and personal life? It isn’t as easy as asking these questions. It takes time to connect and build trust. There is greater joy and satisfaction in leading and managing when you can support your team to reach goals that are important to them.
Develop
Everyone is looking for value and appreciation in their role. Where their talents, interests, and skills serve others while making an income.
Take the time to help your employees outline one goal a month, and allow them opportunities to work toward that professional development goal. Supporting them with job shadowing, mentoring, or coaching can help them make progress faster. Get more tips on employee development here.
Need help keeping your best employees? Book a free 30-minute consultation, and let’s figure your employee retention out together.
