More than ever, today’s employers need to be laser-focused on employee retention in order to help their organizations weather any storms that come their way. A talented and dedicated staff can be a differentiating factor between businesses that embrace innovation and ingenuity in trying times, and those that buckle under the pressure. This is why it’s vital for employers to learn how to reduce employee turnover—so you can keep your top talent on board while building a strong organizational foundation that will help you grow in the future.

While retention strategies vary by industry and organization, there are three basic principles that should be at the core of any efforts centering on reducing employee turnover:

1. Keep employees engaged

Employee engagement has been closely linked to employee retention. When workers feel tied to the work they are doing, to the mission of their organization, and to their colleagues, they are significantly more likely to stay on the job than those who report lower levels of engagement. Traditionally, employee engagement strategies have included learning and development initiatives, corporate philanthropy projects, and rewards for a job well done. Today, many of those efforts need to shift to remote settings, such as recognition tools and online training that help employees develop new skills.

2. Focus on work/life balance

The lines between home and work became significantly blurred after the pandemic started.  Now, employees are often juggling work tasks right alongside caregiving and other responsibilities, which is why it is more important than ever for employers to support them in achieving that balance.

Organizations looking for how to reduce employee turnover should ensure workers have flexibility in when, how and from where they work so they feel empowered to tend to children or parents, community responsibilities, and especially their own mental health.  Inform them of any wellness resources the organization offers and encourage workers to disconnect from the job at certain times to reduce the risk of burnout.

3. Hire employees who fit your culture

Organizational culture is the fabric of any successful business - it is what ties employees to the company’s mission and keeps them continually giving their all to their work. Employers should prioritize culture fit throughout the hiring process, intentionally seeking out candidates who embrace the values and norms of the organization, as it is these employees who will ultimately feel comfortable, welcomed, and valued by the company. Be clear about your corporate culture during the interview – be sure to include any community engagement your company is involved in – this is crucial to recruiting millennials. Your corporate culture is something to be proud of - make sure it is clear in your job postings and interview process.

If you’re looking to build a more engaged staff and expand your corporate DE&I programs, the staffing professionals at Elite Personnel can help you find great candidates in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C. We are experts in the recruitment, hiring, and selection process which helps your company reduce turnover.  Call our staffing agency in Bethesda, MD at 301.951.3333 and speak to our staffing experts today to learn more.