Recently, this employee retention speaker and employee retention author was talking on the phone to a long-standing client about the impact of the Covid-19 virus on their business. Fortunately, they are a defense contractor so they are remaining open and in full production. None-the-less, it’s still a struggle to run an operation with social distancing, wearing masks in a warm environment and taking all the precautions that need to be taken to protect their people.
Those people whose job allows them to work from home are working from home. This puts a strain on the leadership in the plant because they are without some of the support that they would normally have present. However, the President of the company who could work out of his home isn’t even though most of his direct reports are. His philosophy is that if he expects his people to work in this situation it would be wrong for him to be in the safety of his house even though he is technically “at risk” because he is an old guy like me. He is 65.
Many people would think this is foolish on his part for putting himself “at risk” but he helps to support a diminished leadership/support team on the factory floor. He knows the business and is a “go to” guy for the plant manager. He also makes it a point to do his regular “strolls” through the plant to say “hi” and find out how the people are doing…like he normally does. He takes the necessary precautions but is visible. Some people think he should be at home but he won’t have any of it because it’s about loyalty. You have to give it to get it.
This employee recruitment expert has known the President for years and he truly walks the talk and it shows. This guy gives his people C.R.A.P. (Caring, Respect, Appreciation and Praise) He cares deeply about his people and his people care deeply about him. To illustrate this point, many of the plant employees see him on his regular stroll and two people asked him how he was doing and then told him, “Don’t get sick…we need you.” Now that’s what C.R.A.P. is all about!
Are you looking to reduce your employee turnover by 45-80%? Do you struggle with the mindset of a changing workforce? If so, email Jeff at jeff@humanassetmgt.com or check out his website at http://www.jeffkortes.com to find out how his customized programs and workshops can turn your organization into a high performing retention magnet!
