Don't Forget About Your Current Employees

By Wes Leatherman

Today’s job seekers have options – a lot of options. It seems like every business in the United States of America is hiring. More and more employers, and especially small businesses, are looking for ways to attract job seekers to their companies. In this effort to draw talent, we are seeing flexibility with schedules, signing bonuses, increased wages, work-from-home options, and many other perks. And while everyone is searching for the secret sauce to attract job seekers, there is one very important component that employers should not forget – their current employees.  

This unique labor market has not only provided great employment opportunities for the folks who are actively seeking a job. It has also opened the doors for the people who are currently employed. Opportunities to transition to new and exciting career paths are becoming available every day. Employers cannot ignore the fact that some of their existing employees may also be in the job market. Now more than ever, successful companies will need to open their minds and communication channels. Why? When it comes to building your workforce, retention is just as important as attraction. 

“While attracting new employees may be a top priority, do not lose focus on where your company has already invested valuable time and money. Current employees can easily become job seekers if they are not feeling heard or valued.”

Open your communication channels 

Often, just asking employees how things are going will not yield the complete truth. Not every employee will be comfortable engaging in open discussions. Try using anonymous surveys to engage your staff. Be straightforward and develop a plan to take action. If you are asking the questions, be willing to make the changes. Otherwise, you will end up doing more harm than good. Need some ideas for questions? Check out 22 Employee Engagement Survey Questions and Why to Ask Them. 

Be intentionally open-minded 

Remove barriers, think differently, and appreciate the input you get. The options are limitless when it comes to being open-minded. The important thing is to have a “can-do” attitude when it comes to employee requests and changes; the same kind of attitude you expect your employees to demonstrate in their roles within your organization.  

Let’s face it, in today’s job market it is inevitable that businesses are going to lose people. Are we going to get mad about it, or will we choose to find the silver lining? Some employers are going burn that bridge and be disgruntled about the employee moving on. Here’s a tip: How about doing an exit interview to find out why they are leaving? There are rare benefits and data from exit interviews. If they are a good employee, wish them well and keep the door open in case the grass is not greener. There are several benefits to rehiring a former employee. 

While attracting new employees may be a top priority, do not lose focus on where your company has already invested valuable time and money. Current employees can easily become job seekers if they are not feeling heard or valued. Open up communication and open up your mind. Otherwise, you’ll probably have to get used to hiring.