Around the world, more and more workers are seeking employment. At the same time, fewer employees intend to stay with their current employers. A study from CEB Inc. tells us why.
According to CEB’s Global Talent Monitor, Canada, Brazil and Spain experienced a significant rise in job-seeking activity, while Europe and Latin America experienced the highest levels of activity since 2011 and 2013 respectively.
For all their searching, workers aren’t poised to stay once they find new jobs. All regions experienced four per cent drop of intent to stay. Also down is the number of employees exerting high levels of discretionary effort worldwide.
The constant coming-and-going of employees is time-consuming, expensive and unsustainable, says Brian Kropp, HR practice leader, CEB.
“The increase we are seeing globally in both job seeking and optimism around job opportunities suggests employees feel confident that they can find new, better jobs,” said Kropp. “These increases are particularly significant given they indicate a willingness to change jobs despite economic and political turbulence and signal that most companies aren’t doing enough to develop and ultimately retain their top talent.”
It’s time for employers to address the grass-is-greener syndrome. To do so, the focus must be shifted to better work-life balance and growth-based careers. This involves:
- Time. Imposing strict deadlines and rigid schedules does little for productivity. Rather, employers should aim to empower their employees with flexible schedules and environments.
- Offering experience. Allow employees to test the waters through different roles and projects. When employees believe their company is increasing their skill and marketability, they are more inclined to stay.
- Re-evaluating benefits packages. Whether it’s assistance with student loans or expanded maternal and paternal leave, employees are prioritizing non-traditional benefits more than ever.
