Keeping workers happy ‘pays off’, says survey

Employers are being urged to engage more with their staff, as a new survey shows that 70% of workers’ productivity drops as they see out notice periods before changing jobs.

The data, from voucher firm, One4All, added that more than 40% of employees feel over 30% of productivity is lost in this period; while 52% said a positive reputation for treating staff well and engaging with them is the most important factor when choosing an employer.

This figure rises to 62% among those in the 18-24 age bracket.

“What the research shows is the value of keeping staff engaged and of showing them they are valued. Lack of engagement and a feeling of not being a valued member of the team are the most common reasons for employees to seek opportunities elsewhere,” said One4All’s group marketing manager, Aoife Davey.

“That process, in itself, not only leads to extra costs in terms of recruiting a new team member, but as the survey shows, leads to a significant loss of productivity from staff both during the ‘looking for a new job’ phase and in the handover phase.

“It’s this loss of productivity which in many instances can be the real cost to businesses,” she added.

“For employers, it’s clear that engaging with staff and showing they are valued, is key,” Ms Davey said.