If you're a business owner in the disability sector, you've likely observed a high turnover rate among employees. Various factors contribute to this trend, with financial compensation and job satisfaction ranking among the primary concerns. Pay aside, many employees leave because they no longer feel the same way about the company when they first started. This shift speaks more about the employer’s overall value in their staff and company culture, than the employee.
So, how can you interest and keep the right people who will remain and be dedicated to your company? You may not be familiar with the term "employee value proposition" (EVP), but it's fast becoming one of the significant concepts for businesses, large and small. Since Covid there has been a huge shift away from the traditional workplace. In a support service business, the customers remain the same, people living with disabilities, but employees have a bigger choice of employer with the increase in NDIS participants and service companies popping up in larger numbers.
What does the EVP look like?
Basically, your company's EVP contains the benefits, financial incentives, career advancement opportunities, and additional perks offered to your employees. Additionally, it reflects your company's core values and long-term vision. The EVP of your company serves as a framework for attracting and retaining the right staff.
Many job seekers actively seek out companies that resonate with their values. Statistics support this trend, with approximately 21% of job seekers on platforms like Indeed reporting that they accepted job offers because they found association between their interests and values and the company's mission.
When researching for this topic we spoke to one employer who said this about the culture of his support service business
“We pay above the Schads award, and we have a dinner every three months. We like to show our employees we value the work they do and let’s face it; support work is a tough gig.”
Building your employer brand not only attracts skilled candidates but also fosters a sense of loyalty amongst your existing employees. This speaks to your companies commitment to employee development, work life balance and a supportive work atmosphere.
How do we break this down for your business?
Value of your EVP supports:
Recruitment and talent gain: Bringing in the best staff.
Worker Engagement: Keeping your team happy and loyal.
Worker Retention: Making sure that your staff remain.
Your company EVP isn't just a fancy acronym. It's a mix of:
Organisational Values and Culture: Attracting those who align with your mission and values.
Good Work Conditions: More than just money, think flexibility, reward, and extra leave.
Professional Growth Opportunities: Show that you're invested in your team's future. This could include training opportunities.
You can also include things such as
Regular staff outings: Because a team that socialises and has regular contact is a happier team.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Supporting your team in and out of the office. These programs are often needed in the disability sector due to burnout of support staff.
Recognition of success: Celebrate the wins, big or small.
How do go about working out your companies EVP?
Define Your Ideal Candidates: Who are they, and what makes them tick?
Engage Your Current Team: Find out what they love and what could be even better.
Connect with Candidates: Learn from those who said both 'yes' and 'no' to a job offer. Feedback works both ways and it gives you something to think about.
When employees feel connected and align to the company's values and see visible benefits, they are more likely to be motivated and inspired in their roles.
This value in your business is more than just a recruitment tool; it's an asset that affiliates employee expectations with your company's purpose.
If you invest in crafting and promoting your staff you are in a better position to attract, retain, and empower a high-performing workforce.
High quality staff who love the company they work for will only have a positive flow on effect to your customers.
Your employees might be interested: The NDS is launching their workforce census, and you can access more information by clicking on the link below.
We wish you well, as always.
The Lama Care Team
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