Building a Retention Tool Kit: Scheduling

In the last part, we talked about Workplace Enhancements & Benefits tools. Another way to differentiate you from other employers is through Scheduling. In today's society where lifestyles vary, understanding scheduling the needs and flexibility of your employees is sure to add value. Employee flexibility in many industries is among the top ten reasons for staying with an employer - in many cases the top five. Use Scheduling tools to prove that you are an EOC! Below are some tools that you could use along with brief explanations:

Scheduling:

· Flexible work hours, days, weeks: Increasingly, employees want flexibility in their jobs and will remain with an employer that provides it. Some businesses require flexibility, especially those that work with other humans. Being mindful to your employee's availability and not abusing someone's willingness to cover a shift in a pinch will show that you respect an employee's work-life balance. If you must ask someone else to cover, make sure to reward them with other time off or write a thank you note.

· Job rotations, Job sharing, Job swapping, On-call arrangements: Allow the opportunity to learn other things by using some of these tools, especially is there is an expressed interest. What a great way to invest in your employees. Let them learn. Variety is the spice of life.

· Sabbaticals: Allow time off to prevent burnout. Let's face it. We get tired and we need time off. Even if our people are part time, they need time off too.

· Paid internships: This may not apply to all industries, but to some students gaining experience with the promise of a job upon graduation is very exciting. You get to help train the future.

· Leaves of absences: Allow your employees to pursue personal or career issues without penalty.

· Paid time off for volunteer activities: this is unusual - but what a great way to show your employees that you care about them and you care about what they care about. Just a thought.

We know that money is not always the motivator, and the challenge to retain your employees without them going to your competition can be difficult. But if you get creative, offer benefits, and find other ways to show the benefit of working for you, you can become an employer of choice and a leader in your industry. Retaining good employees is a creative process that you truly can customize to your market, your business, your employees, and within your budget. All it takes is getting to know your employees, what THEY find valuable, and how to deliver that to them. The tool model is a creative process, one that you can "build to order" for your organization and your employees. Keep your retention toolbox close at hand.