By Erin Young, CWDC Employer Coach
It is not uncommon for most people to start their own businesses because they have a passion for something and a belief that they can do it better than their local providers. This same drive is often backed by their own experiences, sometimes negative, as an employee for someone else. These new entrepreneurs believe that not only can they make a better product or provide a better service, but that they can also be a better employer. Whether they have deep pockets of resources or are self-financing with nickels and dimes, there are several features that these new businesses can adopt to be a quality employer.
In a post-pandemic employment landscape, job seekers are craving more than just a livable wage and usable benefits. They are looking for an employer that is engaged in their own personal growth and professional development. Many are looking for a schedule that allows them to live a fulfilling life not just outside of, but alongside their work. Feeling a sense of contribution and belonging is critical, especially for younger generations of the workforce.
Businesses can build in job quality features starting with their mission/vision statements and incorporating it regularly into their strategic plans. Businesses must be willing to walk the walk and talk the talk. Additionally, when considering the work environment, employers should map the skills and competencies necessary for each position, from entry level to c-suite. This builds skills-based transition from job descriptions and hiring, professional development and a future plan for successions. Various mentoring partnerships are another low- to no-cost strategy to engage employees and promote cultural safety within organizations.
Not every new business can afford the major benefits straight out of the gate, many need more affordable options to offer their employees. Understanding the specific needs of the team can help an employer offer not just individualized benefits, but ones that the employee will actually use. Some employers offer just dental or vision insurance, tuition reimbursement to community college or trade schools, pet or infant friendly workspaces, or even profit sharing and employee ownership.
Entrepreneurs work in an always changing environment. Their own roles and responsibilities adapt as the business grows and flows on a daily, monthly and yearly basis. Adopting a mindset that is inclusive of employee personal and professional scheduling needs are other low cost, strategic investments into employee retention.
New businesses are exciting and invigorate local communities. Uplifting the quality of their jobs through job quality strategies will also enhance the livelihoods of their employees and their families. To quote a common phrase, most recently used by Darren Walker, President of the For Foundation: “Good jobs IS good business.”
Learn more about Colorado’s Job Quality Framework and watch the CWDC’s Job Quality video series to explore job quality features.