Some people think employment is all about the money, but they’re wrong. For many, it’s about the opportunities.
In fact, the American analytics and advisory company Gallup cites “lack of
development and career growth” as the No. 1 reason employees leave their
workplace.
Employees expect some development opportunities, so ignoring this outright can quickly lead to an exodus.
How can you ensure you’re offering suitable opportunities to keep your
employees happy? “Stay conversations” are a good way to start.
What They Are
Stay conversations are ongoing, informal meetings between employees and
their supervisors. They are intended to provide the employee time to discuss their motivations and attitudes toward their job.
In other words, you’re checking in with employees to make sure they feel
fulfilled and working together to find growth opportunities.
Questions you’d ask in a stay conversation might include: What about your
work is most exciting? What aspect of your job are you most passionate about? Do you feel like you are getting the recognition you deserve? What are some of your career goals?
Planning for Them
Stay conversations should be informal, but they should also be scheduled in advance, so as to not startle the employee. They should also be ongoing to
show that you truly care about employee growth.
Don’t wait until employees are halfway out the door. Start having these
conversations right away!
Stacey Bruce, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the director of HR Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or sbruce@mbausa.org.
