Five Ways to Increase Recruitment and Retention
On average, you will spend one-third of your life at work. That amount of time isn’t a ticking hand on a clock — it’s an investment. As people invest in your business, they expect you to do the same for them.
Today "investing" means more than a salary. Employees who feel undervalued may leave regardless of pay. In 2022, more than 50 million Americans did just that as part of the “Great Resignation”.1 It boils down to a recruitment and retention issue, a familiar problem for those in education. We spoke with 15 Missouri superintendents about this topic. Here's their advice for curbing this issue:
Embrace Teamwork
"Teamwork makes the dream work” is on countless motivational materials, and for good reason. It's believed collaborative spaces increase productivity by 30%. Compare this to the 30% decrease in turnover rate, and it's a win-win for the workspace.2
The purpose is to create a safe, supportive space for employees to explore new ideas. Practices like brainstorming sessions and team potlucks all push toward this same goal.
Introduce Yourself
A recognizable face can be a reliable one for your business. When you're visible to your staff, they can feel comfortable approaching you.
But try not to rely on emails for this communication. A face-to-face relationship will accomplish in days what an email chain can do in weeks.
Live and Learn
Think of your organization like a classroom. How would you describe the learning environment? Are employees comfortable asking questions, even challenging the status quo? If so, you are on the right track because employee education doesn’t end at their new-hire orientation.
Employees are on your team, so try encouraging employees to ask questions and offer suggestions. By doing so, you're giving them several avenues to grow within your company at a comfortable pace. Long-term learning plans may include a Lunch and Learn, or dedicated mentors for new employees.
Brain-Breather
You know what they say about all work and no play. But what if we told you play helps reduce stress and increases brain function?3 Employees do their best when they feel their best. An activity outside of the office, or a company dinner, can be the de-stressor your employees need.
Tight on time or a budget for big events? Introduce tiny brain-breathers into the office such as puzzles or a small library. Giving an employee a chance to recharge can allow them the creative space to develop solutions otherwise unthought of in a pinch.4
Little Gifts
Like you, your employees value a life outside of the daily grind. But it’s this same grind that makes it easy to forget to check in with your colleagues. Never underestimate the power of a kind word or a genuine question about a person’s interest.
Small things like a handwritten thank you note or a friendly conversation can leave a lasting impression. Why? These simple yet effective methods show you care about the person beyond the results.
Recruit. Retain. Repeat.
When it comes to improving your organization’s recruitment and turnover rates, it all comes down to consistency in care. By using one or all these techniques, you are investing in the wellbeing of present and future employees.
This information is intended to be educational. It is general in nature and should not be considered financial, legal or tax advice. Consult an attorney or a tax professional regarding your specific situation.
This blog is up to date as of November 2023 and has not been updated for changes in the law, administration or current events.
