Five ways to retain best performers at work
They are for keeps
It is crucial for an organization to retain its best performers, not least because they exceed their targets and inspire other colleagues, but also because they give the company an edge in its overall performance. The onus falls on senior leaders to retain these employees by helping them with career development, providing them flexibility and getting them involved in decision-making.
Brinda Dasgupta has tips from experts on how an organisation can retain its best performer.
Get basics right
Top performers expect freedom to operate and opportunities to grow within the organisation. “Build the company culture, policies and benefits in such a way that trust and flexibility are part of people processes,” says Aditya Narayan Mishra, CEO of CIEL HR Services.
Undestand aspirations
“Senior leaders should take time to have career conversations with top performers and chalk out areas in which they want to advance. They should then follow up by giving the necessary organisational support to stay ahead of the curve,” says Anuradha Bharat, head of people operations at Razorpay.
Help them learn
Top performers must be given regular opportunities to increase their knowledge. “Engage with such employees, and give them opportunities to upgrade their skills and enrol in new learning techniques,” says Vikrant Gupta, vice president of human resources at Harman India & Connected Services.
Keep them involved
“Regularly ask for their feedback on a host of workplace-related issues, and then act on that feedback. This will show them that not only are they indirectly involved in decision-making, but also that their opinions are valued,” says Bharat.
Challenge them regularly
Top performers like to be challenged at work. Senior leaders should create a stimulating work environment where such employees can thrive and stay engaged. “This helps to fulfil their need to achieve, and keeps them connected with the larger goals of the organisation,” says Mishra.