What’s the vibe like in your workplace? Is it attractive to potential, new and long-term team members? In this unprecedented recruitment environment, focusing on flexibility, inclusivity, wellbeing, and technology can help you attract and retain talent.
With low unemployment, the ongoing challenges of border closures, and increased competition for people, businesses are changing their offerings to attract and retain top-notch employees.
Time and again, research tells us it’s not just about money; the pandemic has caused people to re-evaluate their priorities, how they want to work, and who they want to work for. This is especially true for millennials and Gen Z.
So, how can you ensure your business appeals to the next generations of talent? Here are five key opportunities to focus on:
1. Flexible working conditions
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to working conditions; we should consider the needs and wants of the individual. Ask your people how they work best and what personal things they’d ideally like to work around. Whether it’s starting early, finishing later, working from home regularly, or accommodating a particular appointment each week, studies have shown that flexibility increases productivity, boosts morale, and increases loyalty.
2.Diversity, equality and inclusion
With diversity, innovation and excellence flourish. By recognising the value of a team, your business will attract more talent. When team members feel included, valued, and able to be themselves, they’re happier in their roles and less likely to leave. Review your current recruitment processes for opportunities to attract a more diverse pool of talent and undertake training if you’re unsure how you can make your business truly diverse, equal and inclusive.
3.Prioritisation of mental health and wellbeing
People no longer accept that their mental health and wellbeing should come second to their job. Burnout is a real issue and results in poor performance, strained relationships, and increased sick leave. What do you do to support your team’s health and wellbeing? It could be offering a 4.5-day work week (on five-day pay) or arranging regular team social events and lunchtime exercise sessions in the office.
4.Technology as an enabler
Team members want to utilise the best technology to increase efficiency, automate tasks, and enable collaboration. How often do you review your tech stack? Is it easy for your team to work together even if they’re all based remotely? Does the team have oversight of what others are working on and what their priorities are? Are there tasks done manually but could be automated or streamlined with technology?
5.Workplace vibe
Your employees potentially spend more hours at work than they do with their own families. How does the vibe feel when you walk in? Are your team members working harmoniously and having fun while producing high-value work? Do they feel comfortable providing honest feedback or asking for help when needed? When people are happy at work, they’re generally healthier, less stressed, more inspired to work to a high standard, and have greater job satisfaction.
By reviewing your business with these five aspects in mind, you can identify areas of improvement to help you attract and retain the best talent. The world isn’t a perfect place, and not every business can offer everything their people want. However, what’s important is to create an environment where you can openly discuss what each individual needs to thrive and balance in their role. A happier team is more productive, performs to a higher standard, and is more likely to be committed and loyal to the business.
At Pathfinder Solutions, we’re business owners too, so we understand the challenges you face in this tough hiring market. Moreover, as part of your broader business success plan, we can help you take an objective look at your workplace culture and engage with employees to energise team spirit and, ultimately, boost productivity and your bottom line.
About Pathfinder Solutions
Pathfinder Solutions advisory team members have either owned or managed businesses, or are investors themselves, so we know first-hand the challenges you face in your world.
Sure we’re Accountants, but the best solutions in business come from focusing on more than just the numbers. Our real-world business experience delivers just that.
