Ade Olabode: 3 Simple Reasons Why Your Best Employees Leave

Have you ever wondered why it seems you’re always losing your best employees? Of course change is constant. And it’s safe to assume that someday eventually an employee will move on to newer pastures. But what if you’re losing them because of factors within your control? Not a good feeling.

Yes, we all know it’s not easy as a small business owner to hire and retain the best employees, but trust me on this, it’s not as hard as you think, to keep them. As the wise saying goes, ‘Knowledge is power’, so below are the 3 simple and brief reasons that will likely make your best employees say Goodbye:

You don’t pay them market rates or a decent wage
In most countries, this will be an issue. But in Nigeria, this is THE issue. Sometimes, small business owners struggle to pay their staff a reasonable market wage. Or sometimes, because everyone is paying really low wages (i.e. market wages) but it’s hardly enough for anyone to live on, it becomes problematic. This in turn means that your employees are always on the lookout for a better paying job.

Let’s not forget that with the current economic conditions of fuel scarcity, FX restrictions etc. It’s almost criminal to expect anyone to work without getting paid. So to be clear, if you’re not paying well, expect that other employees who pay well will eventually get your best employees. It’s really that simple.

No clear path of Career Progression
It’s tempting to think that people only want to work for money. But the truth is people also decide to leave companies when they don’t see their career. Now you might say ‘well I’m only a small business, there’s little I can do’. Actually that’s not correct. You need to train your employees. This not only ensures that they’re effective at their job but also helps to understand your business.

If they don’t understand the business beyond what their day to day role/job, there’s no way they can see a future in it for them. Training is the best way to prepare them for promotions, take on more responsibility, learn new things etc.

You never say thanks or well done for a good job
Finally, learn to appreciate your best people. It doesn’t hurt you to show gratitude when they’ve done an excellent job or gone beyond the call of duty. I know it’s hard sometimes as Nigerians to thank people especially when they work for us. But remember sometimes people don’t leave jobs, they only leave horrible bosses. A horrible boss is one that doesn’t know how to say, ‘thank you.’

Do you feel I’m missing out any more obvious reasons? Or you have had different experiences? Please feel free to share in the comments so we can all learn.

P.S. On an unrelated note, last week I informed you that we’re excited to launch PrognoStore to our Nigerian customers. This is happening next week Wednesday  April 27th at Leadway Protea Hotel. I will be in town for the event and if you’re a small business owner (who also happens to read my columns here on Bellanaija), then I’ve got tickets for you. But you really need to hurry as there are only 6 slots available. Cheers!

Photo Credit:Foto.com.ng