According to research conducted by Gallup, 75% of workers who voluntarily left their jobs did so because of their bosses and not the position itself. When employees feel disconnected, undervalued, and unappreciated, it doesn’t take long for them to jump ship and look for another job that will recognize their contributions. Often poor management lies at the heart of an employee’s departure. Employees are loyal to their boss before they are to the organization. In the end, people don't quit their jobs. They quit their bosses.
Many managers think that employees are automatically loyal just because they’re getting a regular paycheck. The truth is loyalty isn’t for sale. Loyalty has to be earned. All the money, perks or well-structured team building exercises, will not retain employees if you keep treating them poorly. If your company has high employee turnover, maybe it's time to look in the mirror.
Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don't want to. - Richard Branson
To increase Employee Loyalty- A Greater Focus must be placed on how you Treat your Employees:
* Don’t treat employees like machines – Employees want to know that their employer understands the need for a work/life balance and respects their personal time.
* Create opportunities for growth and development – Always make sure there are ways your employees can grow and can do work that inspires them.
* Recognize Employees' efforts and accomplishments - Everyone wants to feel appreciated. Frequent sincere recognition keeps your team engaged and productive.
* Don't micromanage - Trust employees. Give them autonomy and breathing space to get their work done.
* Provide adequate training and support. Training demonstrates a company’s commitment to employees in terms of personal and professional growth.
* Show Empathy. Show that you care. Very few bosses show empathy towards their team members and this helps improve overall team morale and performance.
* Open Communication - Communicate often with employees and welcome feedback. Listening and acting on employees viewpoints demonstrates that you value their opinion.
ERIC sent me this: "I actually received a phone call saying my wife was on the way to the hospital and my district manager. was with me and when I informed him that I was leaving he asked me to give him 5 more minutes. That moment I lost all respect for him and I am actively looking for a new job after 17 years of loyalty."
Employees are the backbone of any organization. In the end, people make companies successful. Any strategy or business plan relies on motivated and engaged people to make it happen! This is why the most successful companies focus on people and relationships, and make sure both are not just managed but lead and cared for as good as humanly possible. Happy employees are always willing to do more, they will go to great lengths to help the company grow.
Loyalty is a two-way street. If you want employee loyalty, you must first give it. Employees spend half of their lives at work. They are not asking for much. Employees want to work in an environment where they are valued. Sometimes it's the little things that you do, that counts the most. A little respect and empathy goes a long way. If you want to get the best out of your employees - Treat them well.