As an employer, you know that it takes time to build a team that works well together and takes your business to new heights. And, if your business is used to success, you’ll know how important it is that your team stays together.

Attracting and retaining great employees is the aim of all employers. But how do you go about these processes, and are there ways you can stand out from the competition?

The recruitment process

When thinking of taking on new employees, assess your recruitment options for selecting and hiring staff. Decide which is best, to select people from within or outside the business. When doing so, consider the following.

External recruitment

• A non-selective external recruitment process is often undertaken when looking to hire low-skilled employees at low wage levels. In this case, recruitment is carried out in a casual manner.
• Selective recruitment is undertaken where there’s a demand for skilled and motivated employees. These are usually employees who can step into their role with little need for training.

Internal recruitment

• Internal recruitment provides an excellent opportunity for you to emphasise ongoing personal development and the progression of employees. Employees tend to be happier and more diligent when they can identify potential career progression.
• Employers who prioritise internal training tend to be more focused on employee development. Emphasis is placed on viewing employees as a long-term business asset.

How to attract new staff

The way we work has changed drastically in recent times and affected both employers and employees. To continue operating, many businesses adapted and established hybrid and remote working arrangements. The incoming employee right to request remote working also looks set to have a far-reaching impact.

If you grant an employee permission to work remotely, you’ll need to assess the HR and health & safety risks. That’s because it’s your responsibility to ensure your employees have a safe place to work, even if it’s a home office.

The upside to all of this is that these options will appeal to job seekers. Having a better work-life balance makes employees happier as they have more time to enjoy their personal lives.

Article: How to introduce flexible working arrangements

How to retain staff and deter resignations

Should an employee come to you and say they intend to resign for reasons such as lack of progression or training, you can help.

Here are four ways to deter resignations and retain great staff:

• Career conversations: Talk to employees about their career aspirations. See how they align with your business and what you can do for them. Plotting a clear path can convince an employee that your business is the best place for them to flourish.
• Create development opportunities: Training, educational courses, and freedom to move within the business can all improve how an employee feels about their role.
• Let employees lead themselves: Employees much prefer to have their say in their work and how they complete it. This method is proven to improve job satisfaction.
• Introduce wellbeing initiatives: You may already have wellbeing practises in place but if not, consider doing so. An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a great place to start.

There’s no need to overcomplicate how you go about improving employee job satisfaction. Being smart, and involving your employees from the outset, will reaffirm your dedication to them and offset the chances of employees resigning.

Our HR consultants can help with attracting and retaining staff

For expert advice on attracting and retaining top talent, contact one of our HR consultants today on 01 886 0350 or request a callback here.