What is an employer of choice?
An employer of choice implies that the company offers well-structured initiatives and strategies that promote and encourage the wellbeing, success and productivity of its workforce.
Put simply, an employer of choice creates a positive workplace. This will help attract and also retain highly-skilled staff.
Creating a positive workplace
To become an employer of choice it is important to create and nurture a positive workplace culture. An Employment Hero survey found that 59 per cent of employees will quit due to a dislike of the work culture.
One in four employees will look for an employer with a strong work culture, whilst one in three will stay in a role longer if there is a stronger work culture. This may involve different strategies, depending on the industry and individual business but there are some common habits that can help achieve this.Â
They can include the following:
Leadership
The survey by the AHRI found that 41 per cent of respondents cited poor relationships with managers and supervisors as the reason they were leaving an employer.
The words and actions of leaders provide examples to follow. They can help foster a positive culture by:
- Giving clear and consistent instructions and messages that reinforce positive workplace behavioursÂ
- Demonstrating expected behaviours
- Dealing with issues that may undermine a positive culture
Communication
Effective two-way communication is essential for a positive workplace. This can include the following actions:
- Maintain consistent, open communication channels.
- Engage in regular, positive communication to reinforce the value of peoples’ work.
- Regularly ask for feedback from employees and listen to what they have to say.
- Hold regular meetings with staff to check on progress and to resolve any issues.
“Employees want to see that a company cares about them and introducing health and well-being programs in your workplace is a great way to demonstrate this.”
Reward and recognition
Whilst 63 per cent of employees cited remuneration as a key consideration when considering a new role, this extends far beyond that.
Recognition of, and reward for extra effort and outstanding results can help create a positive workplace. This includes recognising and celebrating both individual and team successes. Employees want to feel appreciated for the work they do and is one of the top reasons why they will stay in a role.
Provide flexible work conditions
The AHRI found that poor work/life balance and insufficient flexible work arrangements were some of the main reasons employees left organisations.
Providing flexible work arrangements can include flexible standard working hours (not just 9am–5pm) and also the ability to work from home. A Heads Up study also found that flexible working arrangements were a key inhibitor for staff turnover.
Health and wellbeing
Part of creating a positive work culture includes investing in the wellbeing of employees. Wellbeing in the workplace can include financial, physical and mental wellbeing.
Employees want to see that a company cares about them and introducing health and well-being programs in your workplace is a great way to demonstrate this. These can come in many different forms but can include things such as health talks, onsite treatment services and mental health programs.
To start promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace, take a look at our resources page. You will find posters you can download and place around the workplace.