Managers are worried about losing their best employees right now — and they probably should be. The marketplace for talent has shifted. You need to think of your employees like customers and put thoughtful attention into retaining them. Here are four steps to try:
- Be aware of your impact. Pause and consider how you’re showing up as a leader — in both your words and actions. It’s likely that your people are worried and stressed. Are you unintentionally adding to their fears and anxieties? Noting your impact will allow you to steer it in the right direction.
- Give your employees respect and attention. Identify any growth opportunities you can offer. Recognize the positive impact people are having and ask them about their aspirations. Then create a plan to help them achieve their goals.
- Focus on potential and possibility. Ask your team: What do you envision as the best possible outcome in the next year? What excites you about the future? How can we get there as a team?
- Make it okay to leave. When someone resigns, respond with gratitude for the time they’ve spent at your company. Far too often, when an employee gives notice, the reaction is akin to an emotional breakup — you’ve been left and you feel rejected. There’s a penchant to dismiss their presence and devalue their contribution. Think deeply about what this type of behavior signals to the departing employee. And remember, those that remain are watching.