The pandemic has many managers focused on improving their performance indicators instead of people. This has created a host of new challenges that they have to deal with. Aside from these, the skills shortages also mean that retaining talent is a priority.
Despite the challenges that the pandemic has created, it’s also an opportunity for managers to grow and shine. Many professionals have found themselves becoming burnt out over the past two years, and many attribute it to poor leadership within their organization. If leaders want to truly stand out, it’s important that they care about their employees and help them thrive. Happy employees typically mean higher quality work, which means a more successful organization. Read on for a few ways you can help your employees thrive.
Re-evaluate How You Recruit
While it’s important to maintain a robust recruitment process, managers should also evaluate their strategies and techniques to make sure that they’re meeting the new challenges of the pandemic. Some of the changes that will be required include implementing new interview procedures and improving soft skills.
The increasing number of virtual and hybrid work environments has created new challenges for both the interviewer and the interviewee. Aside from being beneficial for the candidate, these environments also introduce new skills that both parties should be able to master.
While it’s still important to thoroughly vet a potential hire, it’s also important to make sure that they’re culturally fit. One of the first steps that an interviewer should take is to thoroughly check the references.
It’s also important that hiring managers thoroughly understand the company’s core values and culture. Having the right mix of these components will help attract and retain talent. Having the right mix of people can help keep employees engaged and productive.
The first impression that a potential employee gets is very important, and hiring managers play a vital role in establishing the company’s culture. With the changes that have occurred in the last two years, it’s important that the company’s values align with the new priorities of its employees.
Retention Is Key
Despite the importance of attracting high-quality talent, it’s also important that companies implement strategies to retain their employees. High turnover can be very detrimental to a company’s success. It can lead to employees quitting and starting afresh.
Good managers involve their employees in shaping a company’s culture, and they should also be able to facilitate their development. One of the best ways to develop and retain employees is through cross-functional mentorship programs. These programs expose them to different parts of the company and its people.
It’s up to the managers to determine if their company’s recruitment and employee retention strategies reflect the expectations of their employees and the changes that they’re going through. In the new remote work era, it’s important to develop strategies that are geared toward making the employees feel valued and included.