Retention Strategies

1.      Start at the beginning

·       Get to work on time

·       Be rested and ready for a few days of extra stress

·       Don’t plan to be the “new person” very long; get busy

·       When done with one task, find something else to do

·       Be aware that for a while you may not be able to keep up with the other staff – lunch
money, clothes, etc.

2.      Learn the rules, keep the rules

·       Read the new employee literature provided

·       Ask questions about policies and procedures that are not clear to you

·       Tardiness costs the employer money, and can cost you your job

·       Know what to do about absences

·       Breaks and rest periods are meant to be short

3.      You knew enough to get the job – learn enough to keep it

·       Give new ways a fair chance

·       Ask questions as much as you need

·       Take notes for yourself about new procedures

·       Be appreciative of help offered or given to you

·       Use your common sense

4.      Learn the whole picture

·       Learn how your job fits in with the work of your employer’s entire business

·       Do your work the boss’s way until established

5.      Get along with others

·       A pleasant working atmosphere depends on everyone cooperating

6.      Be aware of gossip and rumor mills

·       Gossip and rumors can stop with one person, you!

·       If you can’t say anything positive, don’t talk

7.      Respect others

·       Their work and ideas

·       Their personalities and backgrounds

8.      Be loyal

·       As an employee, you are part of the team

·       Your job depends on people’s faith in the product or service of the company

9.      Be responsible

·       Admit your mistakes and learn from them

·       Stand up for what you know is right

·       Personal problems don’t belong at work

·       Gather facts before acting

·       Be aware that for a while you may not be able to keep up with the other staff – lunch
money, clothes, etc.

10.Good communication is important

·       Listen with your eyes as well as your ears

·       Discuss matters, don’t argue

·       You communicate to other even when you don’t talk

·       Watch you manners and language

The Top Ten Reasons for Termination

1.                  Personality conflicts

2.                  Poor performance

3.                  Absenteeism

4.                  Insubordination

5.                  Tardiness

6.                  Behavior/Attitude

7.                  Theft

8.                  Harassment

9.                  Discrimination

10.             Reduction in workforce

Source: “Top Ten Reasons for Termination” by Ann Vessels