CNC machine shops have a lot invested in their employees. Hiring, training, and developing a competent staff requires a great deal of time and effort. That’s why it’s so important to hang on to your best employees. Finding good people is such a challenge, in fact, that your highest performing machine operators, production supervisors and other key employees are prime targets for other manufacturers that need to add staff.
It’s a common misconception that money is the one and only reason people stay on the job. Obviously, workers must believe they are being fairly compensated and have competitive benefits. But there’s more to it than that. The main reasons employees tend to leave a company is that they don’t think they are appreciated and/or don’t feel they are considered an important part of the team. So here are 4 ways you can eliminate those feelings and keep your valued employees from looking for a better opportunity.
- Build relationships: You know how important it is to have solid relationships with customers, and the same applies to employees. Human beings are social animals, after all. Yes, some are more social than others, but employees need to feel that they have relationships with fellow worker and their supervisors.
- Recognize achievements: Everyone wants their work appreciated, and not just with formal awards. “Thank you,” if sincere, is an underused form of appreciation that every manager should employ on a regular basis.
- Share the big picture: Employees who have a clear understanding of the impact of their efforts on the company’s overall success are more engaged and enjoy a greater sense of satisfaction.
- Invite them to the party: When looking for ideas to help move the company forward, or to improve processes, invite your best employees to participate in brainstorming sessions. Then be sure to let them know what decisions you make. By being part of the process, they gain a greater sense of worth.
Two of the keys to running a successful machine shop are (1) having the right people and (2) having the right equipment. Your friends at the Milwaukee Haas Factory Outlet can help you with the latest CNC machine technology including the new ST generation of Haas CNC lathes and turning centers. Just give them a call: (310) 381-0750, email: jphillips@haasfactoryoutlet.com, or visit www.haasfactoryoutlet.com.