Marcia's Leadership Q&As: Tips to Lead with the Resignation Trend
/
Q. In the past year, a large number of employees have resigned, and I read that it’s common. What’s causing this, and what can we do?
A. There is a resignation trend that we have not seen before. There are multiple reasons: some people have chosen to retire. Others are fearful for their health in the workplace. Others have chosen or need to focus on family and are taking a break from their careers. Some employees have found a remote position that allows them more flexibility and pays more. It is now an employees’ market, and they will make changes to work in a place that suits them better.
According to recent research and surveys, the most important values people are searching for in their work environment are appreciation, flexibility, challenging work in a collaborative environment, and they want their employers to invest in their development. As an employer, you can ask, “How are we delivering on those traits?” Also talk to your staff and ask them what they need and what’s important to them? Work with them to create a culture that serves the business, their needs, and the customers. Recruit and hire to address meeting both the business needs and the employees’ needs. Be articulate about the expectations. Communicating openly and frequently will help everyone be on the same page and feel that they are contributing.
Q. What’s the best way to handle rivalries and competition between workers? Shall I let them work through their issues or should I intervene?
A. Creative tension is part of every organization if ideas are flowing and diverse ways to do the work are being considered. The foundation is that people will discuss issues with a common aim and with respect. Appreciating each other, recognizing that diverse views, and supporting each other is the commitment team members need to make to collaborate effectively. Some cultures are extremely professional. Others are reactive and emotionally charged.
Leaders need to create an environment, communicate, and teach what values and behaviors will be practiced in the workplace. For small disagreements, people can often work out their differences. If personalities flare and people are dysfunctional, addressing competitive rivals quickly helps re-focus people and maintain a healthy workplace. First meet with each person one-to-one to listen and understand the issue; then bring them together and facilitate a discussion to achieve a healthy outcome.
Send your leadership questions to Marcia Daszko at md@mdaszko.com. She works with Boards, C-suite leaders and teams to pivot, innovate, accelerate and achieve bold results never before imagined. A provocative keynote & virtual speaker, strategic Deming advisor/consultant for 25+ years, and executive retreat facilitator, she is the bestselling author of the book “Pivot Disrupt Transform.” www.mdaszko.com Call for her help today!
