Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1498462
W O R K F O R M E / S P R I N G 2 0 2 3 24 I t isn't easy being a boss these days. The economy is up and down, and the labor market is unpredictable. Depending on the industry, some employers are struggling to attract and retain employees, while others are thriving. In public relations, I have seen it all in recent months: Some agencies refusing to hire, others hiring in abundance, some losing workers to their competitors, and others keeping employees for the long haul During turbulent times, it is important for employers — in PR or not — to go back to the drawing board and reevaluate their policies pertaining to employee attraction and retention. Businesses large and small cannot rest on their laurels. They need to make a strong case to employees and job- seekers to come and stay. Here are seven general tips: 1. Change with the times: To attract and retain younger workers, business leaders need to think like young people. Millennials and Gen Zers have different priorities, and look for work accordingly. Younger genera- tions value job flexibility, such as remote and hybrid work environments. They also expect their employers to care about sustainability and other social issues, so businesses can set themselves apart by adopting the same values. 2. Don't forget the old guard: The labor market isn't just young people. Older gen- erations are still extremely valuable at work, so employers should keep their preferences in mind too. One is retirement planning — setting up people in their 50s and 60s for life after work. Another is personal time off, which allows people higher on the career ladder to spend time with their grandchildren or elderly relatives. Work- life balance is important for all Americans, but especially those with more experience. 3. Find empowerment through challenges and rewards: Older or younger, employees need to feel inspired and motivated at work. That's how they end up being productive. But, to secure that productivity, employers must present their workers with new challenges and B Y N A N C Y M A R S H A L L Attract and retain employees in today's labor market H o w t o F I L E P H O T O Nancy Marshall is the owner of Marshall Communications. She can be reached at nmarshall@marshallcommunications.com 2023 MAINE HR CONVENTION MAINEBIZ May 8-11, 2023 Samoset Resort www.mainehrconvention.com Register now: Get 10% off using code: Enhance Your Employee Experience