Ask a human resources manager and he/she will groan anxiously about how difficult it is to keep employees, especially those they are looking for, every day – and how they don’t seem to understand what employees want.
Let’s break it down…
- Employees want to use their strengths in their profession and want their superiors to use them, but most people do not even know what their strengths are.
- What people want from work is situational and depends on the person, and everyone needs a reward that is meaningful to him or her but giving people what they want from work can be quite simple.
- Employees want to feel heard and developed in a way that enables them to achieve their goals. When employees feel engaged and care about the company, they will do their best to achieve company goals. If managers and leaders hear what employees want, they can help employers start working on a culture that employees want to be part of.
- They want a good job – a balanced lifestyle and the ability to enjoy the process in some way, not just the work itself.
- Employees also expect employers to give them the respect they deserve when they bring their talents and skills to the organization. Employers also know that reliable and responsible employees are valued for their work ethic and commitment to their employer.
When it comes to attracting and retaining top talent, employers need to understand what employees really want from the company. If employers only give advice, enforce decisions, and have very little time to know their employee’s interests, they will fail to retain the best employees.
If employers are willing to offer flexible schedules to their employees, they can help their employees achieve productive results and achieve their goals. The problem with this form of flexibility is that many employers still require workers to ask permission to be flexible.
What are some of your reactions to these? What does your company do to attract and retain employees?
