Monday, February 1, 2010

You Just Can’t Find Good Employees - Part 1

By Action Coach Dave Beam
I hope this week's title caught your attention.  It is one of the most common complaints I hear from business owners.  Many feel victimized by the supposed poor work ethic and complain that more and more there are fewer and fewer good people willing to work and take responsibility for their job.  A number of those with that story are convinced that it applies especially to their industry, or is tied to their geographical area.
Well guess what!  Action Business Coaches from all over the world coaching in thousands of different businesses in a myriad of situations... hear the exact same complaint!  Here is the truth (and this truth will bring you great hope if you are willing to take a fresh look at this issue):  The problem, as well as the solution, is not "out there."  It is not your industry, your type of business, your geography, this new generation, etc.  I am not saying that these issues don't create some interesting challenges, however, before you just totally give up, ask yourself this question: For you to have an extraordinarily successful team, how many great employees do you really need?  Five, ten, or even fifty?  Are you telling me that there are not ten great people out there that would have a great work ethic, take ownership of their job, and be a wonderful addition to your team?  The harsh reality is that you have failed to find and attract them and that you currently have the people you deserve.  Your business has currently attracted the employees and customers that you have right now.  Ouch!  So YOU need to change what you are being and doing if you want a better team.
Describe the ideal employee.  Dream and wish - really idealize, and then ask this question: Why would that person want to work in your organization?
But you protest "Dave, we couldn't afford to pay what it would cost to have employees like that."  Really?  Is it all about money?  The fact is once you pay a competitive and living wage, money is NOT the number one issue in attracting and retaining the best people.
No, my dear business owner, it is about you creating and communicating a vision, mission, and culture that will attract the very best people that fit your organization.  It is about having a recruitment system that markets and attracts based on passion, integrity, work ethic, attitude, values, heart and spirit.  The truth is that you need to learn how to attract the best people, and then create an environment where they want to stay and would never want to leave.  And it absolutely can be done.
Next week I will specifically give an overview of our hiring system that is designed to recruit the very best employees.  Believe it or not - it can be done!

No comments:

Post a Comment