We may be witnessing a minor increase in the Canadian job market, but there is still an abundance of people looking for jobs throughout the world. While there are many people across the globe looking for work, that doesn’t mean that employers shouldn’t put any effort into the hiring process. It may sound simple enough to interview and hire a person, but the hard work starts when it comes to retaining that person. We’re not talking about a competitive salary or fruit basket in the workplace, but the easy tricks that an employer can use to make an environment happier for their staff.
People are starting to leave the workplace if they feel undervalued, and employees are pickier than ever before because of this. Since the turn to a remote world a few years ago, a company’s benefits now hold more weight than ever before. Whether it’s by offering up a supportive culture, or bigger growth opportunities, companies that want the best talent need to make sure that they’re putting in time and money. We’ve put together five of our tried and tested strategies that will help boost morale in the workplace, while also keeping employee turnover at bay.
Competitive benefits
It goes without saying, but the biggest thing a hiring manager can do is to value the person they are interviewing. They need to go into the process with a clear vision of what they are offering, and always allow the potential employee to feel valued. There is no point in hearing the salary expectations of a potential hire, only to go to the final stage interview and offer them something much lower. The biggest salary package isn’t always the best way to attract the best talent, either. The job market that we are in really values quality time and home life; therefore the overall benefits package should consider this comprehensively. Think about creating a package that includes health, dental, and vision, but also leveling up these basics. Add retirement plans or paid parental leave so the employee feels like they are working for something that benefits them as well. Some of the most business-friendly countries in the world offer four-day working weeks or flexible time off, which also will help in guaranteeing that a workforce feels prioritized and committed.
2. Promote a work-life balance
We’ve all grown up in an era that shows that working hard is important – but it can also lead to severe burnout. Those long hours that were done all through the ‘90s are now not necessarily the best thing to look for at a company, as it can mean that you don’t put enough time into your personal life. A healthy balance is one that’s valued by many people looking for jobs, as it means that a company really appreciates and cares about what the employees do after work. To maintain this, a company can offer remote work on certain days, a big vacation package, or the chance to work from “anywhere” during summertime. These are all components of a happy lifestyle, which in turn will lead to higher company retention and profitability.
3. Positive company culture
The Western world pays a lot of attention to positive company culture, but it is something that is needed globally – because people will leave without it. A workplace culture that’s fun and inclusive can boost an employee’s happiness. This can range from Christmas work parties to team-building activities, and it gives employees the chance to bond in an out-of-work setting. When employees enjoy the environment they work in, they’ll go into their working day knowing that it is positive and filled with people that they get along with.
4. Growth opportunities
Another huge way to build an attractive workplace environment is to offer opportunities to grow and prosper. Starting individuals off with a high title may not always be the best, as they could then be stuck in the position for 10 years, waiting to be promoted. Instead, be upfront about growth opportunities and look for ways to let people expand their skills within your company. The best talent on the market will always be looking for ways to grow, and they want to know their employer will invest in their future – before anything else. Offer ways to train and learn on the job, and you will make sure that your workplace is one filled with hard-working people all wanting to contribute to great things.
5. Transparency
Last but by no means least is transparency. There is nothing more annoying than not being kept in the loop with your colleagues and employer, and therefore feeling left out. When employees understand the company’s overarching goals or performance objectives, they will feel more driven to help the company achieve them. To facilitate this, offer regular office updates and meetings to make sure that every employee stays on the same page. The success of the company is all down to the employees, so treat them with respect and your business will flourish.