This past week I've talked about the economic climate of the state and
where it's headed, but now it's time for some advice. Any major
transitions the state makes are going to be difficult on companies and
workers alike, but there are some things people can do on both ends of
the employment spectrum to help things transition more smoothly.
For employers of all sizes, the key is keeping your employees
happy. To attract and retain top candidates, companies need to go the
extra mile for their workers. Staffing companies can help you find the
right people, but it's up to the employers to keep them happy with
their job.
All of the research that I have reviewed indicates that employees
don't leave a job for money—they leave because the either do not like
their boss or feel unappreciated by the company they are working for.
I think that recognizing an employee's measurable contribution to an
organization is KEY to creating a culture of recognition, as well as
perpetuates a feeling of employee good will and loyalty. The typical
big business answer of throwing more money at an employee to keep him
or her happy is antiquated and outdated. Both public and private
recognition can go along way with an internal workforce.
As for job seekers, the hard truth is your going to have to make
some concessions, or risk becoming chronically unemployable. Some
people are less likely to take lower-paying jobs because they feel they
are worth more. Those firmly grounded in Michigan will have to lose
their sense of entitlement. More and more companies are expecting
people to do more for less, and smaller businesses cannot afford the
legacy costs and large benefit packages previously offered by large
employers. The good news is, there is an under publicized shortage of
skilled workers. Michiganders have the legitimate option to seek
re-education to improve upon their skill sets, allowing them to become
more marketable in the local job market. For those unwilling to change
their mindsets, relocation is one option to consider, since the high
paying low skill/semi skilled jobs aren't coming back anytime soon.
We're going to have to work together, but we can make it through this economic storm and come out okay on the other side