Optometrists often face the challenge of staffing shortages. Recruiting, onboarding, and training new employees can significantly hinder the implementation of new services and impact overall practice efficiency. While employee retention may not seem like our top priority at Peeq Pro, it's actually one of our core value propositions. We help practices not only find qualified staff but also create a positive and engaging work environment to foster long-term retention.
Here are key takeaways from successful practices with high employee engagement:
- Cultivate a Positive Culture: Toxic work environments, even if stemming from a single problematic individual, can significantly impact employee morale. Addressing negativity head-on and fostering a collaborative atmosphere can dramatically improve workplace happiness. According to Hailo (an employee engagement firm) 73% of employees are looking to switch jobs so creating a positive culture is a great first step.
- Invest in Training & Development: Providing opportunities for professional growth and skill development, including both optometry-specific and general business training, demonstrates your commitment to your employees' value and empowers them to excel. While salary increases can be expected with additional expertise, this should be tied to increased responsibility and productivity. Interestingly, research shows that many employees prioritize a positive work culture over slightly higher salaries at other jobs.
- Offer Competitive Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance is crucial for many potential employees, particularly those with dependents. Partnering with organizations like Pando PEO can help create attractive benefits packages that enhance employee satisfaction and retention. For Nebraska businesses, check out these local benefit packages that can help with employee retention.
Another significant factor influencing employee retention is work satisfaction. Studies show that a significant portion of employees leave their jobs due to boredom and lack of challenge. According to a Korn Ferry survey in 2018, 33% of employees that changed jobs did so because they were bored at a stagnant office. Offering new services like dry eye treatment and incorporating innovative technologies can create a more dynamic work environment and keep employees engaged.
Building a great office culture goes beyond just offering benefits and training. It requires deliberate efforts to foster teamwork, positive interactions, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Listen to your employees' needs and implement activities that keep them motivated and excited about their work. By prioritizing employee engagement and creating a desirable workplace, your practice can attract and retain top talent, contributing to long-term success and growth.
Sources:
Gallup defines employee engagement as: “the involvement and enthusiasm of employees in their work and workplace.” The best offices seem to have a couple of consistent things that they do well.