It is human nature that once a person gets used to something, they accept it as the status quo. The same goes for company culture and the benefits that companies provide their staff. Employees who start to (for lack of a better term) lack appreciation for their company’s culture are more likely to seek new opportunities. Although, as we all know, the grass isn’t always greener. This is one of the topics that we cover in our latest e-book, which addresses the critical elements to attracting, engaging and retaining top talent.
1) Make Sure Everyone Has the Opportunity to Be Heard
Have forums where new ideas can be brought to the table and vetted, and give your employees the ability to implement them on their own. These discussions are just as important for when someone is unsatisfied or has questions about something. People believe in a world they help create. Opening these lines of communication not only empowers your staff, they go a long way to avoiding “The Grass is Always Greener” syndrome.
2) Remind People How Awesome You Are
Most companies don’t do a good enough job of bragging about culture internally. It’s hard to boast or brag about what you do and how you do it, but it’s important to remind folks about it. Continually talk about the good, while gauging employee satisfaction regularly and seeing what you can do better for people. This is especially important for people who haven’t worked anywhere else, because there’s no frame of reference.
3) Be Visible Through Employer Branding
These days, social media and online presence play a huge part in how a company markets themselves as an employer. It really is the best avenue to showcase your culture externally. I can’t tell you how many times we’ll post a picture or video from one of our events, parties or day-to-day office life, and people will comment, “I want to work for The DAVIS Companies!” or “Hire me please!”. Being active and visible online reinforces the benefits, values and culture you have to your current employees. This article from ERE.net illustrates the importance of employer branding for attracting, engaging and retaining your talent.
4) Hire the Right People
When a company has a truly great culture, it is formed, shaped and molded by its employees. Hiring the right people who share similar values and ambitions is essential to maintaining your ethos. They will bring possible issues to the table before it gets to the point where turnover could happen. Having a plan to encourage this open communication will be noticed as an important retention technique for your hiring.
Have you lost an employee to “The Grass is Always Greener” syndrome? What other advice would you have for combating it? Comment below or Tweet us @TheDavisCos.
