Employers struggle to understand why people are quitting

Gary always said thank you when his team members delivered something they had promised him. Whether it was a simple report or a complex recommendation, it did not matter. He always expressed his heartfelt appreciation and made sure they did not just brush it off. People went away, glowing from his acknowledgment. Of course, they would always go the extra mile for him. 

He was an outstanding role model of a leader who appreciated people. Employee engagement scores were always high for his group. In fact, people vied to join his team. 

This ability to value people will be more important in the post-COVID era. Leaders who appreciate their team members are increasing their chances of attracting and retaining talented employees.

According to a recent Gallup analysis, attraction and retention of staff will be a key leadership challenge to minimise the impact of the ‘great resignation.’ The report, How to Eliminate Burnout and Retain Top Talent, suggests 48% of America’s working population is actively job searching or watching for new opportunities. 

But they found that while many employers hope that increased wages can attract and retain enough people, employees are placing a higher value on their health and wellbeing.

The Gallup report suggests the ‘great resignation’ isn’t just a pay issue. It’s a burnout, stress, and quality of life issue. They urge employers to address the root causes of burnout in their organisation if they want to have any chance of retaining a talented workforce in the years to come.

Gallup proposes three critical actions managers can take to reduce burnout while engaging employees:

Focus me
Work with me to establish mutual expectations and priorities.

 ✅ Free me from unnecessary stress
Help me get the resources I need and remove barriers for me.

 ✅ Help me feel valued and supported
Ask my opinion, recognize my contribution and genuinely care about me.

Leaders like Gary, who have developed practices for appreciating people and valuing them for what they contribute, will have a better chance of retaining talented people.

🙋 Which of these practices appeals to you? 🙋‍♀️

Best regards, Brian

Heartfelt Appreciation