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How to Respond When an Employee is Looking for Another Job

Why Top Employees Quit | PrideStaff Modesto

Losing a key employee is a major headache – and a problem that you’d certainly prefer to nip in the bud if possible. Unfortunately, when a person comes to you with their resignation, there’s usually not a lot you can do about it. But, if you inadvertently find out that an employee is looking elsewhere – but hasn’t committed yet – what are your options?

Is it someone you want to keep?

If the employee is a top performer who you seriously want to hold on to:

  • Do some thinking about why they may be considering leaving. As their boss, you should have some idea what prompted their actions. For instance, have they become stagnant in their position? Are they looking for more money or a shorter commute? It could be any number of things.
  • Invite them in for an honest discussion. It needs to be face-to-face. The conversation will be a bit awkward, but vital. Schedule it for a time when you can give the employee your full attention.
  • Be open about how you feel. Let the individual know how valued they are, and that you don’t want to lose them. Be candid. You may say something like, “I have a strong sense that you may be leaving us. You don’t have to confirm it. But I want you to be aware that I truly value your contributions. Is there anything we can do to keep you happy – and keep you here?”
  • Learn from the experience. Even if your conversation fails to change the employee’s mind, you may be able to find out where you missed the mark and avoid losing other good talent in the future.

Is it someone you’re not especially concerned about losing?

Make a mental note that they may be seeking to leave. Keep this in the back of your mind as you make future recruitment, staffing and succession-planning decisions.

Be professional, regardless of the circumstances.

If you lost your temper, act betrayed, or make an employee feel guilty, your plans will backfire. In addition, there could be collateral damage as other team members are watching. If the rest of your staff sees you acting badly, they’ll lose respect for you and assume it’s not safe to give you any more than minimum notice if they ever decide to leave themselves. The trust of your team is too valuable to risk, so keep your emotions in check.

Are you facing potential staff turnover? The recruitment experts at PrideStaff Modesto will work one-on-one with you to address your needs in the administrative, customer service, IT, finance, legal support, healthcare, production and distribution arenas, and beyond. Contact us today to address your temp, temp-to-hire and direct hiring needs.

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