Employees in the current job market are always looking for better employment. Employee retention is a priority for small businesses as costs of hiring and training new recruits is time consuming and costly. Small businesses need to have effective strategies in place for employee retention. Employee retention is not entirely dependent on employment compensation. Thankfully, small business organizations can implement practices that can increase employee engagement without incurring huge costs. The following simple strategies will boost employee engagement and retention.
Employees are often struggling to balance work with personal life. Recognizing that employees have commitments to family and home and allowing them flexibility in dealing with these issues will increase their loyalty. Allow them to take time off to volunteer, book appointments for medical and other reasons through flex time. Additionally, consider allowing them to work remotely one or two days a week to minimize time spent commuting. Supporting employee needs outside of the workplace will help to prevent their seeking of alternative employment.
Health benefits, including health insurance and health savings accounts that assist employees to meet medical expenses will also boost employee retention. When an employee is able to take care of their health and afford medical care with the help of their employer, they may be more reluctant to jump ship.
Encouraging employees to improve their skills also fosters loyalty. An employee is more engaged when they are always learning and improving. Providing training, seminars, leadership courses and tuition assistance will increase employee job satisfaction and thus retention.
Positive recognition of employees’ accomplishments will increase job satisfaction. Recognizing employee achievements does not cost much, yet it is an effective way to boost employee retention. Creating a positive work environment where good work is recognized and praised promotes overall health and culture of a small business. When employees feel like they are being recognized for their hard work and rewarded fairly, they will be happier and thus more loyal.
The employment and labor law attorneys at MacMain Leinhauser provide human resource counseling and human resources support for private and public sector employers. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact us online or call our office at 484-318-7106. We serve clients in Philadelphia and Chester County from our office is located in West Chester, Pennsylvania.