It seems daily there are job satisfaction statistics plastered all over the internet, 70% of employees dislike their job and are looking for another employer. The majority of employees are disgruntled with their current job! Why are there so many people unhappy with their job?
I have worked with two organizations that held their leadership team accountable for the development and retention of their teams and both of their results were worthy of emulation. I have also worked for a company that was totally consumed with how much money they could profit and the leadership was non existent. The retention rate for that company was miserable and the ones that did stay were only there because they couldn't find another job or were too complacent or lazy to look for one.
Secretary Desks
So what's the expectation of the Leadership team? Leaders should first off understand the strength's and weakness of every team member as this will allow them to work on areas concerning the associate's development. I guarantee you that when you show a genuine interest in your people they will respond, some better than others but they will respond.
Let's use a true example, Patrick worked for his previous employer for 3 years and during this time he was never rewarded for his outstanding efforts and dedication. The harder he worked the greater demand the leaders placed on him. He finally realized that the owners were making an incredible amount of profit from his efforts and he was receiving nothing. He applied for a new job and was inspired by the fact that they provided continuous training for development and great career opportunities. It didn't take long before his efforts were recognized and he was promoted. He has now been with his current company for over 7 years and loves it.
Let's use another true example, Amalia has been working for her employer for over two years and is a key player in every aspect of her job. She received minimal training but exceptional expectations; she learned the job through determination and self pride. The leadership is non existent concerning her well being and development and she is in that 70% of people that like the work but are totally disgruntled with the leadership. Leadership is a 24 hour commitment, when you fail to recognize exceptional talent and assist in their development then you have only yourself to blame if you have a problem retaining employees.
Let's use another example; a leader that is disorganized typically will have employees that are unhappy. The boss that waits' until the last minute to finish commitments and then expects their team to make up for their lack of organization. Employees that have worked diligently all week have no desire on late Friday afternoon to have a load of work dumped on them because of their boss lack of organizational skills.
Then there is the leader that never recognizes they have associates that are ill to a point that they should be at home vice being at work. Then to top this off the leader becomes slightly ill and has to take the day off.
Do we really have to wonder why so many people are unhappy? True leaders will lead and bosses will boss, there is a major difference. Treat your team with respect, dignity, appreciation and assist them in developing their career. The results will be amazing, I know for a fact as I have been subjected to both and have personally observed the motivation or lack of and the results.
A well trained respected associate is a professional and productive associate of which your organization will benefit from. Please don't take my word for it, try it out yourself and see.