Five actions to improve retention and reduce employment risk

Retaining good people requires more than good intentions. While every practice is different, there are some common themes that successful practices consistently get right. Here are five practical actions practice owners and managers can review today to strengthen retention, improve employee engagement and reduce employment risk.

1. Identify your retention risks

Ask yourself a simple question: who would have the biggest impact on the practice if they resigned tomorrow? Understanding where your greatest retention risks lie allows you to focus your time and attention where it matters most.

2. Review your approach to flexible working

Are requests being considered consistently, fairly and in line with your policies? A clear process can improve employee trust while reducing the risk of disputes later.

3. Invest in your managers

Employees often leave managers, not organisations. Ensure those responsible for leading others have the confidence and skills to communicate effectively, manage performance and address concerns early.

4. Create opportunities for development

Not every employee wants a promotion, but most want to feel they are progressing. Regular development conversations can help employees see a future within the practice.

5. Address concerns before they become problems

Many grievances and employee relations issues begin as conversations that never happened. Encourage managers to tackle concerns early rather than hoping they will resolve themselves.

If this article has prompted you to review your approach to retention, people management or employment law compliance, we can help.

Retention is rarely about one big initiative. Often, it is the smaller conversations, decisions and actions that make the biggest difference to how people feel about their workplace and their future within it.

If this article has raised questions about your own team, we'd be happy to have a chat about how we could support you. Call us on 0330 088 2275 or email info@buxtoncoates.com.