Now more than ever, a company’s reputation greatly impacts not only potential candidates’ perspectives, but also the ability to retain existing employees. When you examine your company culture, do you believe it’s one that attracts new talent and retains your current team? Or is it a toxic culture that pushes people away? Here are a few questions to ask yourself, and what to do if you don’t like the answers.
Are my employees happy?
The first step in assessing your company culture is to send out an anonymous survey to your existing team. Ask them to rate their overall happiness, along with their satisfaction with different aspects of the job. Be sure to ask at least one open-ended question, such as, “If you could change one thing at this company, what would it be?”
Is my team well supported, with everything they need to do their jobs?
Take a hard look at your policies and procedures. A great company culture focuses on supporting team members as individuals. Do you provide all the proper personal protective equipment (PPE)? Are you flexible with employees who need time off to care for themselves or family members? Is your safety training up to date? Have you created a learning-based culture where employees continue to develop professionally? Are machines regularly maintained? Do workers have a single point of contact to report issues?
Are we part of something bigger than ourselves?
Increasingly, workers want to feel that they’re making a valuable contribution to society. Does your organization support any causes? Do you provide volunteer opportunities in the community? Part of improving your company culture is connecting to a higher purpose. Community support and volunteerism projects your culture to the public and helps reduce ghosting candidates during the hiring and interview process.
Do I actively try to improve my company culture?
Company culture requires active, ongoing attention. What steps are you taking on a regular basis to boost morale? Examples include, but are not limited to:
- A simple “thank you” goes a long way – it’s an expression of gratitude. But you can take it to the next level by holding regular employee appreciation events. Whether you cater lunch or take everyone out for happy hour once a month, make sure you’re showing your appreciation.
- Team bonding. Escape rooms, online gaming, and scavenger hunts are just a few team activities that can help build bonds. Consider hosting cross-departmental activities that allow people to form connections with those they don’t see every day.
- Individual and group recognition. When you catch someone doing something good, such as following safety protocols or staying late to finish up a big project, give them a small reward – show appreciation and recognition. This could even be an entry in a drawing for a gift card or other small prize. When your team reaches a big milestone, take them out to lunch or give them a half-day off.
A great company culture takes time and attention. You need to take active measures to enhance your company’s culture and to take the pulse of your employees – it’s important to understand their excitement and their worries. But especially in today’s labor market, it’s absolutely essential to retaining top team members and attracting new ones and avoid pushing away the great employees you have..
Ready to hire?
If you need new light industrial team members in Illinois, Indiana, Texas, and Wisconsin, learn how SURESTAFF can help.
