Every company has a few top performers who constantly exceed expectations. By now, you’ve grown accustomed to their incredible work, but make sure you aren’t taking them for granted. Top talent has their choice of employers, so if you don’t do enough to keep them happy, they’ll have no trouble finding work elsewhere.
5 Ways to Retain Your Best Workers
Invest in Them
Some employees come to work each day to earn a paycheck, but the job means much more to top talent. These ambitious professionals truly enjoy what they do, and they want to soak up as much knowledge as possible. Feed this need by sending them to conferences, seminars and training sessions where they can grow their skills and put them to work at your company.
Pave the Way for Advancement
Talented employees are on their way up the ladder. If you don’t give them room to grow, they’ll be forced to head to another company. Avoid this by working with your superstars to find out where they want to be in three, five and 10 years, and finding a way to foster this progression on your team. You might have to create a new position, but retaining them is well worth it.
Get to Know Them
People enjoy working for a manager who truly cares about them, so take the time to get to know your best employees on a personal level. In addition to having regular one-on-one meetings to discuss their careers periodically ask them to join you for lunch or coffee. Inquire about their families, and try to remember the names of their spouse and children. This will make them feel valued and appreciated as more than just a name on your staffing roster.
Ask for Input
Top performers clearly know what they’re doing, so tap into their knowledge base. Request feedback on projects, processes and procedures, and other work initiatives, and take their advice to heart. This shows your best employees you really respect them and value their opinions.
Recognize Achievements
Your best employees outperform the rest of the team by far, so acknowledge their outstanding work. Praise their efforts regularly to let them know you’re watching and are truly grateful for their contributions. There’s no need to do this every time they do great work — as it would be daily — but periodically surprise them with a special reward for their efforts. The possibilities for this are endless but could include an early dismissal, extra day off or a gift card to their favorite restaurant.
ECS wants to help you break free from the mountain of paperwork on your desk, so you can have more time to focus on your team. We assist companies of all sizes and industries, including Fortune 500 companies, defense contractors, information technology, accounting and engineering firms. Contact us today to join forces and make a plan!