Common Change Management Errors (95)

lxxxxv) Need To Understand What Work Conditions, Like Perks,  Attract and/or Retain Staff
Four critical incentives for attracting and retaining staff:
"...give employees responsibility and accountability so they have a sense of being relied upon, have a purpose so employees feel like their actions are worthwhile, cultivate connections and strong relationships among employees, offer flexibility..."
Rhonda Brighton-Hall as quoted by Sally Patten, 2022e

However, in 2022, an Australian survey found that employees
"...placed most value on remuneration and other financial incentives, followed by mental health support including gym membership and work/life balance and a supportive, conducive culture. In fourth place was work flexibility and autonomy..."
PwC as quoted by Sally Patten, 2022e

Other important factors in attracting and/or retaining staff are

- creating a positive culture, where staff are aligned with the organisation's values, vision and mission; linked with this is flexible work arrangements (includes the ability to volunteer during office hours, remote working, 4-day week, etc), generous leave policies, personal/professional skill development programs, etc)

- providing a sense of purpose (includes making a difference
"...ensuring that people have a sense of purpose that ensures their work feels truly meaningful to them......It give staff a sense of pride because they feel they are contributing positively to the world......also give staff a sense they are being cared for as human beings..."
Anna Wenngrn as quoted by Sally Patten, 2022e)

- perks (they need to
"...reinforce the culture and the vision and mission..."
Josh Foreman as quoted by Sally Patten, 2022e

Perks like table tennis, a bar, free food, free yoga classes, free gym, etc can create a sense of fun and engagement; however, they need to be complementary to the sense of purpose.
"...eating lunch together creates a sense of community, by allowing staff to bring pets to work can lift the mood of the office..."
Anna Wenngren as quoted by Sally Patten, 2022e