Retaining Skilled Employees: How Do You Handle Team Members Seeking Change?

Hi Seniors, I am working with a start-up company. People in my company have very critical skill sets. When I get a clue that an employee is looking for a job, I speak to them to find out the reason. If the reason is related to work, salary, or designation, it can be easily managed. However, I found that they need a change because they have been working with us for the past three years or more.

Kindly suggest what can be done to retain employees who are looking for a change?

Thanks and Regards, Seema Gopal

Hi,

I think you need to be specific about the kind of change they are looking for. Obviously, they feel that they can find better projects, salary, and designation elsewhere, and "change" is a term that encompasses all of these aspects. Needs are unique for each individual, so you may have to delve deep to identify the specific change they require.

A similar situation occurred with my friend as well. Even though he had everything in his current job, he wanted to make a change. His friends with similar experience were being paid more, so he also desired the same.

Regards,
Shiju Mathai
Talent Corner Consultancy

Hi Shiju,

Thanks for the input. I think you are right. I need to dig and find out what they mean by change or what change they are looking for. I will try doing that.

Regards,
Seema Gopal

Dear Seema,

According to my point of view, you should conduct exit interviews with the employees who have already left the company to determine the main reasons for their departure:

- Maybe they need motivation.
- Maybe there are fewer opportunities for promotion.

Corrective measures you can take:
- Involve the employees in planning to enhance their sense of belonging to the company.
- Cascade the vision and mission to all employees.
- Motivate and encourage the employees.
- Foster teamwork and value each individual.

I hope these suggestions will be helpful. Please continue sharing knowledge with me via email at jlevist@yahoo.com.

Jay

Dear Seema Gopal,

As you understand, change is an inevitable part of our life, whether official or personal. People tend to look for change for so many things. In order to keep the employee loving the job more and more, it is important to motivate him and perhaps consider rotating the job, etc. Talking to those employees would be a good idea in order to understand their feelings. It may be helpful for you individually and for the organization as well. Even if your efforts could not stop him, say "Best Wishes" to him, as all the changes may bring about something good.

Wishes always,

Senthil Raj [Login to view]