We spend so much time asking why people leave. But when was the last time we asked, ‘Why do they stay?
The other day (month actually), I had quite an insightful lunch with one of our most tenured employees — someone who’s been with us for over a decade. We went out to explore an Indian restaurant nearby that he had been praising for a couple of days for the amazing garlic naan they have 🙂, and during the lunch I casually asked him, “What’s kept you here all these years?”
He paused, looked out his plate for a moment, and then said something that stuck with me.
He said, “bro, it’s that feeling lah, you know? Like I belong, part of something bigger one. Watching the company grow, eh, then knowing I also got play even a small part in that — ayo, that one, really shiok lah! Can’t find that kind of kick anywhere else, man. Somemore the company really take care of us lah, got respect, no problem one. Pay also okay, work-life balance also got — eh, what more to ask, right?””
Wow!!
Here’s someone who’s been through it all — late nights, tight deadlines, market ups and downs — and what keeps him going isn’t the perks or paychecks (though those are nice). It’s the connection, the growth, the purpose. He feels valued, and he sees how his work fits into the bigger picture.
That conversation reminded me that retention isn’t about throwing more perks at people or holding flashy events. It’s about showing them that they matter.
So, What Can We Do?
- Celebrate the Wins: Big or small, every achievement is worth recognizing. Public shout-outs, team emails, or even a simple “great job” go a long way.
- Ask Their Opinion: People stay where their voices are heard. Whether it’s a strategy meeting or a team brainstorm, involve them.
- Highlight the Purpose: Help your team see how their work drives the company forward. People want to feel like they’re building something meaningful — not just punching the clock.
Retention isn’t rocket science; it’s human science. It’s about making people feel seen, heard, and appreciated.
The next time you’re worried about why someone might leave, flip the script. Ask them why they stay. The answer might just surprise you.
What’s one thing your company does to make people stay? Let’s discuss, because retention starts with listening.
#EmployeeEngagement #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #HRStrategy #TalentManagement
I published this article on Medium on Dec 29, 2024. Here is the link – https://medium.com/the-people-room/flip-the-script-why-people-stay-9aab295e6994
If you have found any wisdom in this article, then I urge you to please follow me and drop in your views about the article below.
Also please consider subscribing to me, it would mean a lot. Appreciate your support!
