Home > Business > Human Resources
Created on: March 07, 2009
In this economic market today, most employees talk about how grateful they are to have their job, even if they don't like it! Nevertheless, people do keep their eyes and ears open for opportunities which better suit their dreams. After two decades of looking at employee satisfaction studies, conducting employee "exit interviews" and negotiating ways to keep key employees who have become disgruntled and "loose in the saddle", here are the reasons I find employees are vulnerable to leave.
1. They feel the organization's mission and purpose has become muddy, lost or unclear. As a result, they don't feel they are doing work that is important anymore. If they identify with the goal of the organization, and believe their colleagues have the same high standards about how to achieve it - they develop deep, long-term commitments to reaching the goal.
2. Their role is unclear. Employees want to know their responsibilities, the expectations which are set for them and how they are doing. If communication about this is not both clear and candid, they become frustrated.
3. They do not believe their voice counts. If a work culture is biased and only certain people's ideas or opinions matter, employees decide to find where they will be valued more.
4. The company cannot or does not provide the tools and resources to do the job right. Trying to do work without the resources becomes "mission impossible" and employees don't like to hand their reputations on projects that are doomed to underdeliver.
5. They do not get recognized for jobs well done, personal contributions made or willingness to help above and beyond the call of duty.
6. The organization does not pay attention to their personal development and goals to grow professionally. If an organization does not offer formal or informal chances for employees to develop new skills and have new experiences, work can become stale. A balance of old and the new that keeps people engaged. A supervisor or key manager who checks in on them and coaches them lets them know they are valued.
7. They don't like their boss. Employees who respect and value a good boss will stay loyal and committed. If they disrespect the boss, they move out and on.
8. They don't have a chance to shine. Employees generally want to be proud of their work. If they don't have the chance to do work they are proud of, they will find another way to show they can do great work.
9. They don't like the people. People look for friends and mates with whom they enjoy working.
Below are the top articles rated and ranked by Helium members on:
Why employees leave an organization
by Ursula Dwyer
Employees leave organizations all the time, and that’s a very good thing. If employees don’t leave, new employees
There are a number of reasons why employees leave their organization, some more common than others. It doesn't matter what
by B. B. James
Economic times are tough, and many people are fearful that they will lose their jobs. It seems as if the last thing
by George Leard
Why employees leave an organization
Organizations are living breathing entities that transcends generations, and for it
by Jacinth Klee
When an employee leaves an organisation, the exact reason for the resignation is usually not known. Sometimes it is a blessing
View All Articles on: Why employees leave an organization
Helium Debate
Cast your vote!
Nonprofits: Is investing time/money/resources to adopt social web strategies worthwhile?
Click for your side.
Featured Partner
International Campaign for Tibet (ICT)
International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) has partnered with Helium, giving you the chance to write for a cause. Browse ICT's featured titles, pick an issue and write! You can also donate your article earnings. Share what you...more