People come and go, but that’s not a reason to be complacent in the fast turn-over of brilliant employees. So, before employees hand you a letter saying “It’s nothing personal, Boss; I’m just looking for a greener pasture,” make sure your company provides attractive career opportunities that make it difficult for them to leave. Here’s how.
Show Support
Leaving your employees to their own devices shows the absence of management support. Share the company goals with them. Provide adequate guide and instructions. Tell your employees what is expected from them. Make yourself available when they need you. The channels of communication must not be too restrictive or too informal; by all means, it must be clear to employees how to reach management.
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Praise Them For a Good Job
From your financial analyst down to the employee who makes your coffee every day, show appreciation. You don’t need to host a party for them or promote them (although that will surely be a plus in their book), but a simple thank you or a pat on the back goes a long way.
Be an Example
If you want your employees to arrive at work on time, you must also do the same. You cannot demand punctuality when you always show up late for meetings or for work. Managing is not about walking ahead or behind people, it’s about walking beside them. This is why it’s also called coaching; you have to walk the same walk with them.
Conduct Team Building Activities
A get-together once a month will strengthen the relationship between you and your employees. Since you’re working in the same workplace, it’s important that you build a harmonious working relationship.
Lend an Ear
A good leader doesn’t just lead by example, he’s also a good listener. As a team, you need to constantly check that your members are heading in the right direction. To ensure that, effective communication is the key. You cannot just talk all the time, you also have to listen. Your employees might have some concerns or suggestions that you need to listen to. You don’t need to approve their recommendations every time, but you have to listen. It tells them their ideas are important.
Motivate
Offer incentives that aim for longevity. Studies show that these are more effective at preventing employees from leaving.
Show Authority
Tell everyone that you are the boss without being bossy. Asserting authority is important because employees need to know that they have a capable leader at the helm.