The United States has been experiencing a unique phenomenon within its workforce known as the “Great Resignation.” Since early 2021, more than 13 million workers have quit their jobs seeking higher pay and a better working environment. However, many regret this decision.
USA Today conducted a Harris Poll that found that one in five workers regrets quitting their job and wishes they had stayed with their former employer. The question is, why?
The pandemic has had a significant impact on how people view their employment. Employees are no longer satisfied working long hours for meager pay. They want to enjoy their occupations while receiving the benefits and compensation they believe they deserve.
However, although many of these workers initially benefited from higher salaries, they discovered that their positions weren’t a good fit for the long term. A study performed by The Muse found that 80% of Millennials and Gen Z job seekers would leave a job if it was still a poor fit after six months. This study reveals the greater truth that, despite the regrets, the “Great Resignation” is far from over.
It also forces companies to evaluate what they must do to improve employee retention, especially in vital fields like environmental, health, and safety.
The Importance of Retaining EHS Employees
EHS employees play an integral role in the health and safety of the general population, making employee retention essential. High turnover rates affect the safety of the entire company and should be avoided if possible. Companies can help ensure their employees are satisfied and engaged at work, decreasing the chances of them quitting, by implementing the following strategies:
1. Provide remote working opportunities.
Providing employees with more options for where they work can give them the flexibility they desire. With pandemic uncertainty heavy on everyone’s mind, knowing they have the opportunity to work remotely at least for a day or two each week is an attractive proposition that can help encourage them to remain with your company.
2. Offer improved benefits.
To stay competitive with other companies that are making attractive offers, improving your employees’ benefits is an excellent way to encourage them to continue working for your company. Many employees would prefer to remain in their current job than go through the hassle of learning the ins and outs of a new position, so offering them an incentive by providing them with more options for health insurance, perks like gym memberships, and vacation and paid time off is an effective strategy.
3. Give regular feedback and recognition.
Everyone wants to feel seen and heard, so providing regular feedback and recognition is powerful. It allows employees to see that your company is invested in them and helps them increase their productivity. It also motivates them to work harder, as most people respond well to positive reinforcement.
As an increasing number of employees leave their jobs to find higher pay and a better working environment, it’s more important than ever to retain your talented EHS employees and help ensure everyone has a safe and healthy working environment.
Resources:
Employee Retention: How to Keep Your Top Talent in 2022, Jennifer Hartman, FitSmallBusiness.com.
‘I Let Money Get in the Way’: Most Recent Job Quitters Have Regrets or Don’t Plan to Stay in New Role, Paul Davidson, USA Today.
Many Who Quit Their Jobs in ‘Great Resignation’ Regret It, Zaid Jilani, NewsNationNow.com.