6 Top Tips on getting your SME workplace talent ready
Despite the employment market being tough for job seekers, many have preconceived ideas about what working for an SME is really like. Often, they wrongly assume that there will be a lack of career prospects within a smaller organisation and instead go looking for opportunities within the “big name” organisations which are familiar to them.
Having spent the last six years supporting SME organisations I have worked with some fantastic people, many running innovative and ambitious businesses. Finding the right people when you need them, who have the technical skills and just as importantly fit in with your organisational culture can be tricky. If an incorrect hire is made within a small organisation it can be disruptive to the team, financially costly and take up a lot of unnecessary management time. (Look out for my next blog about how to hire the right people for your business.)
So, how can you create a workplace which helps you attract and retain the best talent?
Here are my top tips:
1. Organisational culture, working relationships and team dynamics can make or break an organisation. The informal, friendly and team-orientated working practices of the SME can lead to better relationships, communication and cooperation. Take time to reflect on how your own organisation operates, if you don’t like what you see then there are lots of practical steps you can take to implement change.
2. Every day is different, this is a great for your team who with training can experience a wider job role, increased skills and a better understanding of the wider business. In return the organisation benefits from a flexible and capable workforce.
3. Team members regularly get the opportunity to interact with the key decision makers and get noticed. Consider holding regular briefings on company plans and performance and look at creating opportunities for people to participate in new projects and initiatives.
4. Every member of the team makes a difference and helps to deliver organisational success. Make sure you recognise contributions and if necessary deal promptly with any performance issues to maintain an effective and harmonious team.
5. With little or no hierarchy then changes to working practices can be implemented quickly to meet individual employee needs.
6. Business needs change and develop especially within growing organisations. Encourage team members to share their ambitions and where appropriate provide training to meet the future needs of the business.
Don’t forget that communication is essential if you want to attract and retain the best talent. Whilst you might not be able to compete with the “big guys” on salary package you shouldn’t underestimate the benefits of a great working environment.
Contact me if you would like help and advice with implementing strategies and practical steps to improve your workplace.
