Why Businesses are Struggling with Employee Retention

Dr. Ryan Giffen

It is no secret that employee retention can be tricky, even when things are ‘going well.’ Now, with the persistent changes to the marketplace and businesses across the globe, employee retention is increasingly difficult as well as increasingly important. Let’s take a look at what makes employee retention a challenge and why it is increasingly hard as of late.

What Makes Employee Retention Difficult?

There are a few factors that can make employee retention hard even in the best of times. In times like these, the problems that make employee retention difficult are exacerbated. With a little bit of care and attention, however, they do not have to get in the way of keeping your most valued employees.

Compensation

One of the most significant reasons that it can be challenging to keep employees is money. Just as it can be difficult to afford your full-sized workforce, it can also be difficult for people to feel secure in their wages, especially in times of need or when they feel under-compensated. Be sure that you are meticulous about any decisions regarding layoffs and pay your employees the rates that they deserve in such trying times. One of the best ways to show an employee that you value him or her is to pay them for their hard work. Keep in mind that in hard times, life is difficult for everyone. People who put in an extra effort to stay around should be compensated.

Opportunity

Another discouragement that can push employees away is a stagnant position. Be sure that each of your employees feels as though he or she has the opportunity to advance in their career. As well as grow alongside your business. If you have employees that feel as though they are “pigeon-holed” in their respective positions, it can be difficult for them to be ambitious and find purpose in their jobs. If, however, they feel the room for advancement, they will likely feel security and trust in your business. This will significantly increase the likelihood that they will be willing to stick around in times such as this when “the chips are down.”

Environment

A key ingredient in employee retention is a healthy workplace culture and environment. It is vital that the stresses involved with management and finances should not be allowed to trickle-down into the workplace. Curbing the tensions by creating an environment based on positivity and equality will provide a healthy escape for your employees. Which they will likely desire to return. Keep your place of business lighthearted and inclusive. As well as diverse and positive so that you do not lose your employees to the stresses of today’s world.

Interest

Lastly, be sure to keep your employees interested. The best way to do this is to challenge them with new and different tasks. As well as raise your expectations in a positive manner. Be sure to showcase their abilities. If you have an employee who is good at a particular task, push him or her to continually improve and give them praise where it is due. Keeping a challenging and high-energy business will keep your employees interested while enhancing their sense of purpose.

About Dr. Ryan Giffen

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like. Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness. Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another.  Lastly, Dr. Giffen is producer and host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. a show helping everyday employees overcome workplace nonsense.