Tips for Retaining Employees in 2024

Around 27% of U.S. workers quit their jobs in 2023, which, according to a common turnover calculation, cost employers nearly a trillion dollars to replace. Unfortunately, turnover is expected to climb this year, and labor experts predict another form of the “Great Resignation” to take place as workers choose to leave their jobs. Employee retention remains a critical challenge this year for employers across industries. A LinkedIn survey found that 85% of workers plan to look for a new role in 2024, which is almost a 20% jump from the previous year. The trend particularly applies to younger generations, including Generation Z, millennials, and Generation X.

While today’s workers see both the possibilities and risks of job or career changes, many are choosing to explore new opportunities and leave their current employers. This article outlines tips for employers on employee retention.

Reasons Why Employees are Quitting

In the past few years, many workers have joined the mass exodus from the workplace. In general, workers are leaving employers due to the following:

• Inadequate salaries
• Limited career advancement
• Work-life imbalance
• Health and family issues
• General unhappiness with management or the company

Employees are taking more ownership of their happiness, finding the job that’s the best fit for them while still fulfilling other personal responsibilities.

Retention Best Practices for Employers

As the job market evolves and employee expectations shift, companies must adopt innovative strategies to keep their talent engaged and satisfied. Consider these strategies for retaining employees:

• Foster a positive work culture. A positive workplace culture is foundational to employee retention, regardless of the current labor market. Employees are more likely to stay with a company where they feel valued, respected, and part of a cohesive team. Foster an inclusive environment that celebrates each employee and promotes collaboration. Employers can regularly recognize and reward employee achievements to boost morale and create a sense of belonging.
• Offer competitive compensation and benefits. In 2024, competitive compensation goes beyond salary. Employers must provide comprehensive benefits packages that address the needs of their workforce. This may include health and wellness programs, retirement plans, paid time off (PTO), and flexible working arrangements.
• Provide career development opportunities. Employees are likelier to stay with a company that invests in their professional growth. Employers can provide opportunities for skill development, training, career advancement, mentoring, and career pathing.
• Embrace flexibility. Flexibility has become a key factor in employee retention. Working remotely or having flexible hours can significantly enhance job satisfaction. Hybrid and remote work models allow employees to effectively balance work and personal life.
• Promote work-life balance. Promoting work-life balance is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining employee well-being. Encourage employees to take breaks, use their PTO, and disconnect after work hours.
• Cultivate strong leadership. Effective leadership is crucial for employee retention. Leaders should be approachable, empathetic, and transparent. Leadership training can help ensure managers are equipped with the skills to support their teams effectively. Authentic and strong leaders can inspire and motivate employees, fostering loyalty and commitment to the organization.
• Encourage open communication. Open and transparent communication is vital for a healthy workplace. Encourage employees to share their ideas, concerns, and feedback without fear of retribution. Transparency builds trust and can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.
• Solicit and act on employee feedback. Regularly soliciting employee feedback can help identify potential issues before they escalate. Employers can gather input from exit interviews, surveys, suggestion boxes, and one-on-one meetings. More importantly, when organizations act on feedback, it demonstrates to employees that their voices are heard and valued. This transparency can significantly improve job satisfaction and retention.
• Enhance employee engagement. Engaged employees are more likely to stay with their employers. Enhance engagement by involving employees in decision-making processes, providing meaningful work, and creating opportunities for social interaction. Employers can organize team-building activities and company events to strengthen relationships and foster a sense of community.
• Recognize and reward performance. Regular recognition can significantly boost employee morale and retention. Employers may consider a recognition program that acknowledges both individual and team achievements. Various forms of recognition exist, such as bonuses, awards, public acknowledgment, and career advancement opportunities. Regardless of the reward, consistent appreciation can reinforce positive behaviors and commitment.
• Invest in employee well-being. A healthy workforce is more productive and loyal. Furthermore, employee well-being is a holistic concept that includes physical, mental, and emotional health. More than ever before, today’s workers need resources and programs that support overall well-being, such as mental health days, counseling services, fitness programs, and stress management workshops.

To be impactful, employers should also regularly monitor the effectiveness of their retention strategies and be prepared to adapt as needed.

Retaining employees in 2024 requires a multifaceted approach that addresses workers’ diverse needs and expectations. As more workers consider exploring new job opportunities, savvy employers can implement various strategies to not only enhance employee retention but also contribute to a more engaged and productive workforce.

Employers should continue to monitor trends and consider strategies to retain and attract talent in response to the changing dynamics of the workforce.

Choice hosted a webinar about building a workplace culture that fuels success and drives your business forward: “Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Positive Workplace Environments” Watch the recording for free here!

This HR Insights is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. © 2024 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.