Creating a thriving environment should be top of mind for every small business owner or manager. Here’s what our client, Opera Delaware, said about tips on improving employee retention.
Start by hiring the right people.
First and foremost, you’re never going to be able to retain amazing talent for your small business if you don’t hire the right people in the first place.
“Our Operations Manager ended up being a referral from somebody else that I was trying to hire who was already committed to another position. I said, ‘Do you know anybody just like you?’ And she said, ‘Well, yes, actually.’ And the rest is history,” said Cooke.
Find staff members who are more invested than just a paycheck.
The nonprofit world is in an interesting position when it comes to employees. While it’d be great to be able to compensate them as much as possible, the budget doesn’t always lend itself to allowing that. However, the quality of employees can be immensely stronger. Cooke explains.
“Our employees are all very passionate about the work that we do. I think that’s probably a challenge for many nonprofits, is that you may not have the same resources for staff that the for-profit world has, but you do have the added benefit that you’re bringing in people who are passionate about the work. That’s obviously critical, especially when we’re trying to get people to come to the theater,” he said.
Ways to increase employee retention.
Your staff is your biggest resource and your key to success. It’s important that you never miss an opportunity to let your team know how much you value them.
Above all else, proper communication is critical on both ends.
“I certainly couldn’t do this kind of work alone without my team’s support, energy, and advice,” said Cooke.
