A survey from the end of 2021 found that 43% of Canadian employees were likely to look for a new job in the year ahead. It’s no surprise that workers who are unsatisfied with their current roles may be looking for a change, which leads to an expensive and time-consuming need to replace them. To recruit—and retain—top talent, consider building a people-first company culture where employees feel valued. Here are five tips to help make your workplace culture more employee focused.
Use inclusive hiring practices
Creating a work environment where all employees—regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion or cultural background—feel welcome is a great first step in making your company more people centric. Plus, having more diverse voices on your team allows for richer debates and brainstorming sessions because more viewpoints are represented.
Show concern for employees
Everyone has busy lives outside of work, and a truly people-first business cares about employees beyond the role they play in the company. Be flexible when workers need time off, regardless of the reason, so they feel supported. Create opportunities for employees to share their personal lives through an office chat or during team meetings. No one should be forced to participate, but providing a way for employees to connect on non-work related matters can foster a sense of belonging.
Be transparent with feedback
Clear and open communication, including honest feedback, is an important aspect of a people-first company. Knowing what they’re doing well, and what they can improve, helps reduce employee stress and confusion. Set time aside for one-on-one meetings so employees know what they can do to take their work to the next level.
Feedback goes both ways. Regularly ask employees about the company’s processes and protocols to ensure that your staff knows their opinions are valued. Ask for feedback through anonymous surveys or during in-person meetings. Thank everyone who participates with employee giveaways, like a business card case, lunch box or hoodie embroidered with your company logo.
Reward professional development
Most companies understand the benefits of rewarding employees’ achievements, but an employee-centric business will recognize employees’ development and growth. This way, everyone is highlighted, not just the traditional ‘highflyers’. Celebrate the most improved employee, the one who participates in the most workshops or the one who always has a positive attitude. Hand out tumblers, pretzel boxes or comfy T-shirts to the winners. Cheering someone on for seemingly small wins helps employees know their accomplishments are seen.
Create opportunities for growth
Employees want to be able to see a future with their company, so feeling like their career is stagnant can be stifling. Of those people looking to make a job switch, about 80% cite concerns about growth opportunities as their motivation. An employee-first organization offers plenty of opportunities for employees to grow and develop. Workers will be excited to explore new skills and diversify their abilities. Help employees find a clear growth path for themselves during performance reviews and set reasonable targets they can aim for. Employees are sure to feel enthusiastic about the future.
Nurture your employees with a people-first company approach
Investing in your staff is one of the best ways to encourage your workers and improve their job satisfaction. By valuing diverse opinions, encouraging open communication and rewarding learning and growth, your business can create a people-first company culture that fosters relationships, retains top talent and produces results.