A new approach to employee relations

Helen Russell, HR Consultant at Harrison Drury, outlines ways to attract and retain valuable employees in the current difficult economic climate.

With the war for talent, skills shortages and the great resignation all hot topics, the start of a new year may trigger workers to re-assess their work/life priorities, and even think about looking for a new career.

With many existing and prospective employees expecting even greater flexible working arrangements, employers will likely wonder ‘how can I attract, but more importantly retain, valuable workers?’

For those prepared to think long-term, part of the solution is quite simple. Keep your current team happy and retain the talent you have already invested in.

So how can this be achieved?

This can be done through various ways. Firstly, by ensuring you have an effective selection process so that you offer roles to the right candidates in the first place.

Following this, adopt an effective induction programme so new starters integrate with the rest of the team right from the start.

When recruiting new people, be clear about what you expect them to do and achieve, ideally in a way that enables them to link their contribution to the organisation’s success.

Encourage collaborative working so employees have a strong supportive working relationships, and provide opportunities for them to learn and develop.

Also, make sure you have a transparent process to enable them to progress in their careers.

Most importantly make sure you allow for fair reward among your workers and learn lessons by listening to people who leave.

If you wish to discuss any of the options above for your business, contact our HR and employment team on 01772 258321.