NAS TALENT TALK

In a perfect world, employee turnover would not be a problem. But as HR professionals can attest, the world is far from perfect. Turnover is expensive, hurts organizational growth and can negatively impact overall company performance. Although turnover is inevitable, it can be controlled – and that control is especially important when it comes to high-performing associates who are looking for greener pastures. That’s where the five Rs come in. A simple retention strategy? Perhaps. But when executed effectively, it can be a lifesaver.

Respect
You’ve heard it many times before: Treat others as you wish to be treated. And who among us does not want to be treated with respect? Respecting others means showing courtesy, kindness and empathy; listening, not just hearing, to what others have to say; appreciating each individual’s unique skills and talents; and enabling associates’ ideas to take root and grow as policy and procedure improvements.

What indicates disrespect? Making major changes without getting input from those who will be impacted, as well as berating associates, especially in front of co-workers (and yes, there is a big difference between constructive criticism and berating). It’s important for organizations to take stock of managers’ and employees’ interpersonal and communication skills. These soft skills can be culture builders or culture killers.