Employers of Choice

In the past, employers looking to hire the best staff would offer higher salaries than their competitors. Now they are thinking out of the box in a bid to lure staff away from the competition with a range of perks. Some of these perks include paid parental leave and a day off for parents on their child’s first day of school.

A high salary is no longer the most important factor for many workers, many are now desiring a better work/life balance.

An employer who can offer an appealing workplace culture is more likely to attract and retain superior employees. The features of the atmosphere available at an employer of choice support the interests of employees and customers.

Here are some tips for becoming an Employer of Choice;

• Employ people with diverse backgrounds including indigenous and people from other cultures, women, gay and youth.
• Include all staff in management and leadership opportunities.
• Encourage high levels of satisfaction among staff.
• Strive to have a good reputation in the business and the wider community.
• Utilise reward and recognition programs.
• Flexible work practices.
• Career development programs.
• Involve employees in decision making.
• Family-friendly policies.
• Job Security. Employees are better able to concentrate on their goals and work if they are not concerned about losing their job.
• Respect: Your employees should always feel they are respected by their bosses and co-workers.
• Access to Information: Share information about the business with your employees, it will help to make them feel more involved and motivated.
• Work-Life Balance: work-life balance initiatives such as flexible scheduling choices, allow employees to work undistracted by family and life events occurring outside of the workplace.
• A recognisable brand – One which is associated with values that are supported by your company and employees. If a potential employee has not heard of you, they are less likely to consider you  their first choice for work. Ideally you want to attract employees with similar values to your business.
• Honesty and integrity - Treat everyone with the appropriate respect and professionalism that you would expect in return. Employers need to fairly develop and apply policies, treat all employees with the same regard and consideration, and make workplace guidelines clear and enforceable across the board.
• Create a community. Establishing a strong community in your workplace, which is positive and supportive, will provide a sense of belonging that will attract and retain the right people long term.