At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous companies conducted layoffs, leaving many workers out of jobs. However, as the vaccine becomes more widespread, restrictions loosen, and employees go back to the workplace, many people are quitting their jobs. 2.7 percent (4 million people) left their organizations in April 2021.
A survey from Microsoft found that 41 percent of workers globally are thinking about quitting their job this year. Experts say this trend is happening for various reasons. People are reevaluating their career paths, as the pandemic gave them time to reflect. Some individuals who didn’t like their jobs only stayed put because of the pandemic. Additionally, the ability to cash in on the increasing value of homes and the booming stock market prompted other workers to retire early.
Jason Furman, a Harvard economics professor, explains that there is a record number (9.3 million) of open positions in the United States. This is causing workers to quit their jobs for better opportunities. Many companies are offering higher pay and improved benefits to secure talented employees.
As a hiring manager, one of your top focuses should be to retain your talented staff. These strategies will help you ensure your best EHS employees stick around:
1. Provide opportunities for training and professional development.
Your most talented workers strive to improve their skills regularly and move their careers forward. When you encourage them to participate in training events, attend conferences, and take online courses, it enables them to build their professional strengths. Your employees will also likely be more committed to your organization and their work when you provide them with skill-building opportunities.
2. Give feedback and recognition to your employees on a regular basis.
When you provide your workers with feedback on what they’re doing well and where they could improve, they are more likely to produce high-quality work and feel dedicated to their job responsibilities. Scheduling regular meetings to check in with your employees and give them this feedback will demonstrate that you’re committed to providing them with the tools they need to do their jobs well.
According to Gallup’s annual study of the U.S. workforce, only one in three employees strongly agrees that they were given recognition for their work in the past seven days. Employees who feel as though their work isn’t appreciated are twice as likely to quit in the next year. That’s why it’s crucial to prioritize providing your team members with the recognition they need to excel in their roles. When an employee accomplishes a goal or makes a positive impact on a project, be sure to thank them for their work.
3. Consider offering new or improved benefits and perks.
Many companies are now offering flexible schedules and telecommuting opportunities, even as staff return to their facilities as pandemic restrictions loosen. This allows for improved work-life balance and typically increases productivity among teams. Additionally, providing improved health benefits, vacation and paid time off, and even gym memberships can help you become a competitive employer to secure top talent.
As more jobs open up and employers compete for highly qualified EHS workers, it’s essential to focus on retaining your staff. Providing professional development, feedback, recognition, and improved perks and benefits will help you keep your best employees engaged and committed to your company.
Resources:
Diving into the Great Resignation and What It Means for American Workers, Neal Freyman, Morning Brew.
Employee Recognition: Low Cost, High Impact, Annamarie Mann & Nate Dvorak, Gallup.