Why Can’t I Find and Keep Good Employees?

Why Can’t I Find and Keep Good Employees?

If you’re frustrated because you can’t find—and keep—good employees, you’re not alone. I hear this complaint from business owners all the time: “Nobody wants to work anymore,” “They leave as soon as I train them,” or “Why can’t people show up and just do their job?”

Here’s the thing: the labor market has changed. What worked to attract and retain employees 10 years ago doesn’t work today. But the good news is that you can fix this problem. It’s not easy, but it’s absolutely possible to build a team of dependable, motivated employees.

Let’s break down why you’re struggling and what you can do to turn it around.

1. Are You Offering More Than Just a Job?

Gone are the days when a paycheck was enough to attract great employees. Today, people want more—they’re looking for purpose, growth, and a workplace they actually enjoy being a part of.

• Purpose Matters: Do your employees understand how their work contributes to the company’s success or the community at large? If you’re running a plumbing business, for example, it’s not just about fixing pipes—it’s about solving problems and improving lives. Make sure your team understands their impact.
• Opportunities for Growth: If there’s no room to grow, good employees will look elsewhere. Offer training, certifications, or mentorship to help them build their skills and advance their careers.
• A Positive Culture: No one wants to work in a toxic environment. If your workplace is stressful, disorganized, or full of drama, even the best employees will eventually leave.

2. Are You Hiring the Right People in the First Place?

Finding good employees starts with your hiring process. Too many business owners hire out of desperation, taking the first warm body that walks through the door. That’s a recipe for disaster.

• Define the Role Clearly: Before you even post the job, get crystal clear on what you need. What specific skills, experience, and personality traits are essential for success?
• Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill: Skills can be taught; work ethic and attitude can’t. Look for people who are eager to learn and align with your company values.
• Be Selective: Don’t rush the process. It’s better to leave a position unfilled for a little longer than to hire someone who’s not the right fit.

3. Are You Paying Enough?

Let’s talk about money. I know it’s a touchy subject, but if you’re not offering competitive wages, you’re going to struggle to attract and retain good employees.

• Research the Market: Do some homework to find out what similar businesses in your area are paying. If you’re at the bottom of the range, don’t be surprised if employees jump ship for better offers.
• Offer More Than a Paycheck: Benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, or even flexible schedules can make a big difference in employee satisfaction.

4. Are You Setting Employees Up for Success?

Sometimes, the problem isn’t the employees—it’s the environment they’re stepping into. Ask yourself: Are you giving your team the tools and support they need to thrive?

• Onboarding Matters: Your onboarding process sets the tone for an employee’s experience. Are you throwing them into the deep end, or are you giving them proper training and clear expectations?
• Communicate Effectively: Employees can’t meet expectations they don’t understand. Make sure you’re communicating goals, responsibilities, and feedback clearly and consistently.
• Recognize and Reward Good Work: A little recognition goes a long way. Celebrate wins, no matter how small, and make employees feel valued for their contributions.

5. Are You Keeping Good Employees Engaged?

Once you’ve hired a great employee, your job isn’t done. Retention requires ongoing effort.

• Check In Regularly: Don’t wait for annual reviews to see how your employees are doing. Regular check-ins help you catch issues early and show your team that you care.
• Foster Team Connection: People are more likely to stay at a job where they feel a sense of belonging. Invest in team-building activities and create opportunities for employees to bond.
• Challenge Them: Good employees don’t want to stagnate. Give them new challenges, responsibilities, or opportunities to lead.

6. Are You Willing to Reflect and Adjust?

Here’s a tough pill to swallow: If you can’t find and keep good employees, the problem might be you. As the leader, your attitude, management style, and decisions directly impact your team’s success.

• Are You Micromanaging? Nobody likes to feel like they’re being watched every second. Trust your team to do their jobs.
• Are You Setting the Right Example? If you’re showing up late, cutting corners, or treating people poorly, your employees will follow suit—or leave.
• Are You Open to Feedback? Ask your employees for honest feedback about what’s working and what’s not. You might not like what you hear, but it’s the only way to improve.

Final Thoughts from Coach Bob

Finding and keeping good employees isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible. It starts with you—the business owner—creating an environment where people want to work. That means offering more than just a paycheck, hiring the right people, and giving them the tools and support they need to succeed.

Remember, a strong team is one of the most valuable assets your business can have. Invest in your people, and they’ll invest in your business.

If you’re struggling with employee issues, don’t go it alone. At Coachfirm, we specialize in helping small business owners build strong, successful teams. Let’s work together to turn your hiring headaches into a competitive advantage.

Ready to take action? Schedule a consultation with me today and start building the team your business deserves.