Patricia,
The recession and potential job loss has hit all businesses and occupations. The education industry is no different although we do tend to be anti-cyclical. We are seeing enrollments increase as the unemployed re-tool. But that doesn't mean total job security for our faculty and staff. Therefore, I agree with you that we have employees who are appreciative of the jobs they have and will work harder to keep them. We as supervisors, though, shouldn't take that for granted. I like your idea of acknowledging a job well done. It is those little things that cost so little but mean so much in terms of employee morale. Those happy, content employees will in turn treat our "customers"/students better and, as a result, we will see better retention and better student outcomes.
Pat
I'm seeing a positive impact on our employee retention in these tough times. Our employees are complaining less about pay, etc., because they realize how many other people would be thrilled to have the jobs they have. None of them want to be faced with the prospect of having to look for a job right now when there is so much competition in the field. They seem grateful to be employed and, believe it or not, more cheerful and enthusiastic when called upon to do something extra that may have been considered to be burdensome in the past. I do take the time, however, to let them know I appreciate them and what they do, because it's rare for upper management/owners to do so. Morale has been low for some time based on lack of pay increases and acknowledgement from the upper ranks for a job well done.
Clytie,
Although good employees tend to have many options and will move on, most employees hope to be retained with their current employer. Employee retention can also be negatively impacted by reductions in staff. People tend to be concerned about their job security which creates productivity as well as potential health issues from the stress.
Pat
The econonmy at it is now has a negative impact on staff retention. Mainly as employees know poeople are desperate to keep their jobs so they dont emphasize on staff retention because a lot of people are unemployed and are seeking jobs.
