You’re a leader in a Global Business Services (GBS) organization, and here’s the reality check:
talent retention is tougher than ever. The hybrid work model has turned the playbook upside-down.
Employees crave flexibility, collaboration, and connection. But how do you keep your best people
on board while navigating this new landscape?
The truth is, it’s not just about perks or paychecks anymore. Employees are considering quality of life
and the alignment of work culture with their personal values. I’ve spent over 20 years in the outsourcing
and offshoring world, and I’ve led numerous large-scale shared service centers. So let’s dissect some
strategies that will help you keep top talent engaged and motivated in this hybrid setting.
Understand the Individual
Start here: listen to your employees.
Get to know what makes them tick.
A one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. Here’s how you can deepen that understanding:
- Conduct regular one-on-one check-ins.
- Implement anonymous surveys to gauge sentiment.
- Be transparent about company goals and challenges.
When employees feel heard, they’re more likely to stick around. It’s about building trust.
Think of it like a partnership; you’ve got to know each other well to grow together.
Embrace Flexibility
Here’s the deal: flexibility is king.
The option to work from anywhere isn’t just a luxury anymore; it’s a necessity.
So, how do you create an environment that supports it?
- Offer flexible work hours—let people start and end their days when it makes sense for them.
- Encourage well-being days; burnout is real, and recovery is non-negotiable.
- Provide the right tools for remote work—no one wants to deal with a slow connection or outdated software.
When employees can balance work and personal life, they’re happier and more productive.
This is where investment in technology comes in.
Streamlining your remote systems ensures
everyone can thrive, whether they’re in the office or at home.
Foster a Collaborative Culture
Hybrid work doesn’t mean isolation.
In fact, it’s crucial to foster connection and collaboration among your team.
Here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling:
- Schedule regular team huddles—virtual or in-person—to keep the energy flowing.
- Create mentorship programs that bridge gaps between remote and onsite employees.
- Organize team-building activities periodically to strengthen relationships.
Remember, a team that collaborates well is naturally inclined to stay together.
Sharing experiences builds camaraderie.
It’s like building your own tribe—one that sticks around to tackle any challenge.
Invest in Growth
Here’s something a lot of organizations overlook: career development matters.
When employees see a clear path for growth, they’re more likely to commit.
So how do you ensure your team has room to grow?
- Provide access to online training and development resources.
- Encourage employees to pursue certifications relevant to their roles.
- Facilitate regular feedback sessions focused on performance and aspirations.
Investing in your people is investing in your business.
A team that grows together thrives together.
Resources like learning platforms
can be a game-changer.
Recognize and Reward Contributions
Let’s not forget about recognition.
People want to feel valued, especially in a hybrid workspace where connections can falter.
Simple recognition can go a long way. Here’s how you can make it work:
- Implement a “shout-out” system in team meetings—acknowledge achievements publicly.
- Offer incentives for milestones achieved, whether personal or team-related.
- Create a “Wall of Fame” where employees can showcase their contributions.
Celebrating wins builds a positive culture.
It reminds everyone that their efforts matter.
And guess what? It keeps people motivated to put in their best work day in and day out.
Keep Communication Open and Positive
In a world where remote meetings are the norm, communication can easily break down.
So, foster an environment where feedback flows in all directions—up, down, and sideways.
Here are ways to maintain open lines of communication:
- Utilize collaboration tools to keep conversations going.
- Encourage transparency about challenges and wins.
- Celebrate the diversity of thought—everyone’s input is valuable.
When people communicate openly, you’re creating a culture of collaboration.
That’s a magnet for retention.
Plus, it plays well with the shared services transformation that organizations are striving for.
Be Adaptable and Evolve
The landscape is changing, and businesses need to adapt.
Keep a pulse on what’s trending in the world of work.
That might mean evolving your policies or even embracing new technologies.
- Stay updated on industry trends, especially around shared services.
- Solicit feedback from employees about what works and what doesn’t.
- Be willing to pivot—don’t be afraid to try something new.
Adaptability is key.
Being flexible with your strategies for retaining talent ensures you’re always a step ahead.
Conclusion
Retaining talent in GBS during this hybrid work age requires a thoughtful approach.
It’s not merely about policies but about creating an inclusive, engaging environment.
Listen, adapt, and invest in your people. If you approach this strategy genuinely, you’ll foster loyalty.
It’s a work in progress, and honestly, it’s about building relationships.
You’ll set your organization up to thrive in this evolving landscape, becoming a
leader in the shared services sector.
For more insights on transformation, innovation, and leadership in shared services, check out
THEGBSEDGE. This blog, started by myself, Vikrant Aglawe,
is your go-to resource for navigating the complexities of our industry.
