Whether you’re using virtual offices for remote workers or have a traditional space with an in-house team, you may find it hard to consistently maintain employee engagement. Specifically, you may find it difficult to retain your top performers.
In this blog post, we’ll break down our top five strategies for keeping top talent happy and engaged at work:
1. Offer competitive employee compensation packages
Any business that hopes to retain top talent needs to offer competitive employee compensation packages. Sure, a healthy paycheck isn’t the only thing that motivates top talent, but it’s certainly a high priority when deciding where they want to work and how long they want to stay.
To settle on an appropriate number, research industry standards. See what other companies offer for similar duties, or check out websites such as Payscale to get an overview of industry averages.
2. Provide professional development
Talented employees love to build their knowledge and develop their skills. Companies that can provide that kind of growth and development are more likely to engage and retain high performers. A simple way to start is to assess their needs. Do they require training programs, tuition reimbursement, or mentorship opportunities? If so, create a plan for providing these programs.
It’ll take a bit of work to set these programs in place, administer them, and measure their success. So, before setting anything up, communicate your plans to employees so they can better understand the benefits of professional development and how they can engage with it. Finally, implement the plan and monitor its outcomes.
3. Allow flexible work arrangements
Employees value flexible work schedules far more than you might expect. In fact, many are willing to forgo a 10% salary increase in exchange for flexible hours. To implement a flexible schedule effectively, start by determining what kind of schedule works best for your business needs. Is it a hybrid model, remote work, a four-day workweek, or something else?
After hammering that out, write up a clear policy detailing how employees can request flexible schedules, who they need to communicate with, and how their performance will be measured. Finally, collect feedback, monitor the policy, and make any necessary adjustments.
4. Cultivate a positive workplace
Employees who feel inspired and uplifted at work are far more likely to be productive and stay with a company. Businesses can cultivate this kind of positive workplace by recognizing employee achievements, encouraging open communication, and creating collaborative opportunities.
You can recognize achievements—and significantly boost employee engagement—through bonuses, promotions, and simple thank-yous for work well done. In addition, foster open communication so people feel comfortable sharing their ideas. This results in a psychologically safe environment, which is key to enhanced productivity. Lastly, a positive workplace is a collaborative workplace, so tap into the power of team-building activities and other social events.
5. Encourage work-life balance
The definition of the “right” amount of work-life balance changes from person to person. However, it’s important to encourage employees to try and find their ideal balance of professional and personal life. Otherwise, burnout might take over and the company’s overall productivity will suffer.
To achieve work-life balance, start by communicating its benefits and offering flexible schedules or the ability to adjust schedules according to personal circumstances. Encourage time off if it’s needed. In addition, monitor employee workloads and, if you’re a manager or owner, lead by example and find the right balance for yourself.
Successful businesses depend on top talent and productive teams working together. To achieve this, offer competitive compensation, flexible schedules, and professional development to cultivate a positive workplace that motivates employees to work hard and succeed.