There is no real secret, per se, to retaining talent; it is all about having the right attitude so that employees remain engaged, motivated and happy. We learn more with Mark Dickinson of DONE! Hospitality Training Solutions.

It is imperative to communicate what you expect from your employees and what you stand for as a business owner. Also, your company’s reward system must be clear enough for staff to understand how they will be compensated for their hard work.

Hiring for personality and skill
Personality is as important as skill. Finding a candidate that has both is crucial, so keep looking until you find the right person. The individual you end up hiring must be a perfect fit for your business. If you compromise, you are sending out the message to your team, as well as your customers, that you are willing to compromise on quality, products and services. That is why you need to ensure that every member of your team represents your business.
Also, keep in mind that your employees — especially front-line team members — understand your business more than anyone else. Therefore, you need to get them involved in recruitment.

Building a good team
Eliminate bad elements, such as egocentric managers and gossipers. Avoid team-building exercises, as they never work. Provide learning experiences instead, because they allow employees to be the ones who teach.

Being an exemplary boss
Make sure that the work environment you create is pleasant for your staff and is not toxic: no gossip, no politics and absolutely no favoritism. Always be kind, thoughtful and genuine.
Encourage open discussions and let your staff share their views on how the business could be better managed.

Constantly helping, recognizing and praising employees
Bosses need to keep their egos in check and understand that the world doesn’t revolve around them. So, for your business’s sake, be flexible and empathetic with your employees: generous with your praise yet discreet with your dissatisfaction.
Help your employees get things right, and if they are not on the right track redirect them, as quickly as possible, toward success. Instill a sense of belief and determination in your team. You’ll be surprised by what you can accomplish when you constantly praise people and reward the high achievers. After all, people come to work because they want to earn a living, contribute to something worthwhile and feel appreciated.

Encouraging employees beyond their scope of work
Encourage your employees to earn more money and show them how to do it. Also, urge them to invest at least 10 percent of their monthly earnings and teach them how to go about doing it.
Inspire them to be more charitable by leading the way and providing opportunities for them to give to great causes. At the end of the day, why would an employee leave a place where they feel happy, recognized and rewarded?

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