HR

Employee retention - definition, meaning & measures

Jan 11, 2024
11:00 am
Reading time:
7 Minutes

Successful employee retention has become a decisive factor for the long-term success of companies. In the face of ever-growing competition for skilled workers and employees' rising expectations of their workplace, it is extremely important to develop and implement effective employee retention strategies.

In this article, we at Crewting take an in-depth look at the concept of employee retention. We will define employee retention, analyze six key pillars, examine different forms of employee retention and highlight the numerous benefits it offers companies. We will also take a look at the measures and tools that can contribute to the successful implementation of employee retention. Because: We want to show how employee retention can improve internal HR and actively contribute to strengthening companies.

Definition: What is employee retention?

Employee retention, also known as employee loyalty or employee engagement, describes the extent of the emotional and psychological bond that employees develop with their employer. This bond goes far beyond simply staying with a company and refers to the attachment and loyalty to the workplace. Employee retention also reflects employee satisfaction - the extent to which employees are motivated and committed to their work - and how strongly they identify with the goals and success of the company. High employee retention means not just doing the job, but actively committing to one's own task and contributing to achieving common goals.

The 6 pillars of employee retention

The following 6 pillars form the basis for successful employee retention and help employees to feel connected to the company they work for in the long term.

  1. Work organization & work environment
    • Pleasant working environment
    • Flexibility in working hours and locations
    • Social spaces and company parties
  2. Health, sport & leisure
    • Company health management (CHM)
    • Sports facilities
    • Healthcare and insurance
  3. Personnel development
    • Further education and training - also for managers
    • Internal mentoring and competence center
  4. Employer marketing & employer branding
    • Positive appearance on employer rating portals
    • Social media and career events
  5. Corporate culture & communication
    • Transparent corporate values and management principles
    • Work-life balance measures 
    • Good internal communication
  6. Perks & benefits
    • Benefits in kind and recreational allowances
    • Meal allowances and travel allowances
    • Staff discounts etc.

These pillars and measures are also known as corporate benefits.

Different forms of employee retention

Employee retention can occur in different forms:

  • Social bonding: This form of retention is based on strong relationships with colleagues and superiors. The feeling of being part of a team or community motivates employees to stay with the company.
  • Emotional attachment: Here, employees identify personally with the goals, values and corporate culture. They feel satisfaction and pride in their work.
  • Normative commitment: This bond arises from a moral obligation or loyalty to the company, often due to previous investment by the company in personal development.
  • Rational commitment: Employees value the benefits of their employment, such as salary and career opportunities. They stay because they see the company as the best career option.
  • Retention by habit: Some employees stay with the company out of habit. They are used to the routine and environment.

Advantages: Why is employee retention so important for companies?

Employee retention is essential for companies as it offers numerous benefits: High employee retention leads to a reduction in staff turnover and the associated costs. It also increases the productivity of the workforce, as committed employees are more motivated and work more efficiently. Employee retention creates a positive corporate culture and strengthens the company's image. Companies benefit from lower recruitment costs and a stable, experienced workforce. Ultimately, successful employee retention ensures employee wellbeing and contributes significantly to the long-term competitiveness and success of a company.

Measures & tools for successful employee retention

Successful employee retention requires a deep understanding of employees' needs and a holistic approach. It's not just about financial incentives - it's about creating a motivated and supportive work environment, promoting the personal and professional development of employees and recognizing their achievements. The following measures and instruments are possible:

  • Designing a flexible working day: Companies can use home offices and flexible working hours to improve the work-life balance of their workforce and offer more freedom.
  • Promote professional development: Investment in further training, mentoring programs and feedback meetings promote further development.
  • Health promotion: Company health management, sports programs and the promotion of a balanced diet contribute to health and satisfaction.
  • Positive corporate culture: Transparent communication of corporate values, modern communication tools and company-internal (online) events promote a sense of belonging among employees and ensure good internal communication. Appreciation of employees is of course also important.
  • Financial benefits: Bonus payments, company cell phones for private use and company pension plans are incentives that can increase employee loyalty.
  • Quality of leadership: Management training, open discussions and actively living the company values are key elements here.

A digital employee survey can help to find out how well such measures and goals have ultimately been implemented and how strong employee loyalty really is in your own company.