Preventing turnover is a major concern for many healthcare facilities, and for good reason. Take nursing, for example around 60,000 nurses have retired since 2012, creating a gap that’s been difficult for employers to fill. Many facilities are also struggling to find new hires after staff shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, working in healthcare is challenging purely due to the nature of the work, which can often be physically and emotionally taxing. This can lead to burnout among workers and push them to leave their jobs for a less stressful field.
If healthcare employers want to hold on to quality staff, it’s very important they take the right steps to keep employees satisfied. If you run a healthcare facility, read on for 4 essential tips on how to retain great employees.
1. Interview with intention.
When you’re looking to fill a job ASAP, it can be tempting to hire the first decent candidate that pops up. But being more careful with your interview process helps ensure you’re hiring the right people the first time, which can save you major time and money down the line.
2. Improve your onboarding process.
An employee’s first few weeks on the job set the stage for the rest of their time with your company. For that reason, it’s important to make this period as welcoming and educational as possible. Giving your new hire this time to learn the ins and outs of their new job, rather than just throwing them into the mix, will make them far more likely to stick around.
3. Prioritize career advancement.
Your staff needs to know that you care about their career trajectory – that you’re just as invested in their future success as they are. A great way to show this is to offer regular free training to help them build their credentials. You should also provide ample opportunity for promotions, so ambitious employees can strive for higher-level positions.
4. Create a healthy workplace.
Staff that feels uncomfortable under-appreciated in their workplace aren’t likely to stay. Fostering a friendly, inclusive work environment is absolutely critical for keeping workers happy. Pay close attention to your facility’s culture and always look for ways to improve it.
Is Your Healthcare Facility Understaffed?
AMEA Healthcare can help you fill vacant healthcare positions. Learn more today.
