NSA releases tips on reducing turnover

CHARLOTTE, NC — The National Service Alliance has created a list of tips to reduce turnover rate among employees, according to a press release.

“Turnover in the industry runs anywhere from 75 percent to historical highs of 400 percent,” the release reports. “Each time a worker leaves, it costs [a] contractor $1,000 in recruiting, orientation and basic training costs to bring in a replacement.”

Employee turnover can add stress to an already stressful industry, especially during the busiest time of the year.

“That’s a lot of [wasted] money that could be used for new equipment, training programs or added to business profits,” Terry Sambrowski, executive director of the NSA, said in the release. "Taking steps to reduce turnover is just good business.”

Sambrowski offers the following tips to help lessen turnover in your business:

• Hire right. Many large contract-cleaning companies now place a higher value on selecting workers who have a positive attitude over experience or training; the better the attitude, typically the more willing the workers are to learn and stay on the job.
• Provide exceptional training. Studies have shown that many new workers feel an obligation to companies that have spent time and resources on quality education programs; training can breed loyalty.
• Offer competitive wages and benefits. Many of our contractor members hire union janitors, who typically receive higher wages and more benefits; although an upfront cost, higher wages and benefits often result in staying power for employers.
• Let employees have a voice. While it is not always feasible, workers should be involved in as many business decisions as possible, especially if it affects their jobs. Encourage workers to share their likes, dislikes and other input so they feel a part of the business family.
• Ensure opportunities for advancement. Workers who believe they have opportunities to advance within the company are more likely to stay with the company. Always try to promote from within.
• Provide recognition. A recent study found that 88 percent of employees reported "praise from managers [is] very or extremely motivating" and more important to them than money.^*

For the original release, please click here.