Are You the Root of Your Business' Revolving Door?

We know the number one reason people leave their jobs is due to their manager. In a small business, that is most likely you. 

Team members come and go. Sometimes it has nothing to do with you. They need to move home or want to switch industries, etc. Other times your personalities did not click and that is okay too. 

But if you find yourself going through a string of people, all with vague reasons for leaving, perhaps you should ask yourself if it is you. I do not think many people would tell you directly to your face that they are leaving because of you. So what can you do? Below are a few tips.

1.Be transparent

Share where you think growth opportunities in the business may be. Perhaps you are not sure but you have an idea--let them know that.

Share what kinds of training you can send them to, how the company is doing financially, what you can afford to pay them, etc. 

Ask them what kinds of total compensation they would like. For instance, would they rather have health insurance or more salary?

2. Get leadership training: Even if you think you are a good leader, you can always improve. We all can. Focus on further developing your leadership, always. 

3. Ask for feedback…and be open to hearing it :If you do find yourself asking if it is you, consider truly exploring that. The key is that you must be open to hearing the feedback and being coachable. If you ask and argue counterpoints or if you ask and do nothing, your team will not trust you.

4. Share your mission: When your team knows why you are doing something, they can get on board more easily. A common purpose = unity of effort. 

5. Get out of their way: I have seen this happen in numerous small businesses. Because this is your baby, one you may have even built from scratch, it is hard to let go. Yet when you keep the reins so tight, your team may feel hamstrung. Why fight the owner when they can just go find another job?

6. Thank them: Recognition and appreciation go a long way. When people feel appreciated, they know their work has an impact. I have often seen graphics on LinkedIn or Facebook that say, “A person who feels appreciated will always do more.” And that is the truth, they feel encouraged and inspired by your appreciation.

If you notice people leaving and are uncomfortable with the constant change, take the time to explore it and find out what is at the root of the issue. In the end, it could change your business and you as a leader for the better.