Workplace Culture and Employee Retention: Helping Small Businesses to Create a Thriving Workplace
In a recent Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS), it was determined that 3 to 4.5 million employees in the US quit their job each month. Employee shortage has affected corporate and small businesses alike and left owners, managers, and CEOs scrambling to find and retain employees. Employee retention is crucial in the workforce and contributes significantly to the overall success of the business and brand. While surveys may suggest a grim outlook for employee retention, there is hope. These same surveys offer some valuable insights from employees who have left their jobs.
An overarching theme appeared in survey results, that employers may find encouraging. Employees expressed a strong desire to be valued, challenged, and educated in the workplace. One survey found that 94% of employees would have stayed with their employer if they had invested in their long-term learning. Of course, these aren’t quick fixes, but when your business establishes a workplace culture that boosts morale and invests in employee growth, everyone wins!
Last week Forbes published an article that offers Three Questions Small Business Owners Should Ask in Creating a Workplace Culture. Rhett Buttle’s article notes that “Empathy and transparency are important in maintaining a positive, productive morale, and its foundation is rooted in culture. “ The three questions he suggests for businesses to consider in creating this culture are:
“What Kind of Culture Do I Want for My Business?”
This would be a great time to tap back into your mission statement! What makes your business stand out from the others is likely to be a huge part of your workplace culture.
“Why Will This Culture Help My Business?”
Having a positive work environment where employees feel seen, heard, and cared for will attract talent, retain talent, and boost productivity. You can grow and learn from your employees as they grow and learn in your workplace culture.
“How Will I Create This Culture?”
Consider establishing an “open door” policy for employees to share thoughts, ideas, and concerns. This can help you to build a stronger connection with your employees as you learn about how to best establish a workplace culture that benefits everyone (including your customers and clients!).
At Ocoos Web Consulting, we have been providing web-based products and services to small businesses in Ocala and the surrounding areas for over ten years. We are passionate about helping the small business community to grow and thrive, and look forward to helping you and your business!
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