In recent times, the employment landscape has witnessed a seismic shift with the emergence of what’s been coined as “The Great Resignation.” A tidal wave of employees reevaluating their career choices has challenged businesses across the globe. However, where challenges arise, opportunities for transformation also emerge. In this blog post, we’ll explore how Human Resources (HR) professionals can strategically navigate The Great Resignation in the UK and turn it into The Great Retention, bolstered by insightful statistics that shed light on the current employment landscape.

 The Great Resignation: Unpacking the Phenomenon

The Great Resignation refers to the unprecedented wave of employees voluntarily leaving their jobs. Factors such as the impact of the pandemic, a reassessment of work-life balance, and the desire for greater purpose have fuelled this mass exodus. In the UK, this trend has not gone unnoticed, with significant implications for industries and organizations across the country.

The Great Resignation in the UK:

1. Record Resignation Rates: According to data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), resignation rates reached a record high in 2021, with over 1.1 million people resigning from their jobs between April and June.
2. Impact Across Sectors: The phenomenon is not confined to a specific sector. Industries such as hospitality, healthcare, and technology have all experienced notable spikes in employee resignations.
3. Generational Shift: The Great Resignation is marked by a generational shift, with younger workers leading the charge. According to a survey by LinkedIn, 74% of millennials and Gen Z professionals in the UK are considering a job change.

 Turning the Tide: Strategies for The Great Retention

While The Great Resignation poses challenges, it also presents an opportunity for HR professionals to reassess and strengthen their talent retention strategies. Let’s delve into effective approaches that can turn this tide and foster The Great Retention.

1. Flexible Work Arrangements:

   – Statistical Insight: A survey by PwC revealed that 77% of UK employees want to continue working remotely at least two days a week.

   – Strategy: Implement flexible work arrangements, including remote work options, to accommodate the evolving preferences of employees.

2. Investing in Employee Well-Being:

   – Statistical Insight: The Mental Health at Work 2021 report indicates that 37% of UK workers experienced high levels of work-related stress in the past year.

   – Strategy: Prioritize employee well-being by offering mental health resources, wellness programs, and creating a supportive work environment.

3. Career Development Opportunities:

   – Statistical Insight: According to a report by LinkedIn, 94% of employees in the UK would stay at a company longer if it invested in their career development.

   – Strategy: Provide clear paths for career advancement, mentorship programs, and opportunities for upskilling to demonstrate a commitment to employees’ professional growth.

4. Competitive Compensation and Benefits:

   – Statistical Insight: The UK Salary Guide 2022 by Robert Half found that 84% of UK professionals would consider leaving their current job for a higher salary.

   – Strategy: Regularly review and benchmark compensation packages to ensure they remain competitive. Consider additional benefits like healthcare, retirement plans, and flexible spending accounts.

5. Cultivating a Positive Company Culture:

   – Statistical Insight: A survey by Glassdoor revealed that 76% of UK employees consider a positive company culture important when considering job opportunities.

   – Strategy: Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and positive company culture. Encourage open communication, recognition programs, and employee feedback to create a sense of belonging.

6. Employee Recognition and Appreciation:

   – Statistical Insight: According to a survey by Achievers, 82% of employees in the UK believe that recognition motivates them to work harder.

   – Strategy: Implement regular recognition programs to acknowledge and appreciate employee contributions. This can include awards, shout-outs in team meetings, or personalized notes of appreciation.

7. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives:

   – Statistical Insight: A study by McKinsey & Company found that companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to have financial returns above their respective national industry medians.

   – Strategy: Prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to create a workplace that embraces differences and fosters a sense of belonging for all employees.

8. Transparent Communication:

   – Statistical Insight: A survey by Willis Towers Watson found that 62% of UK employees believe that their employer could do more to improve communication.

   – Strategy: Foster transparent communication by regularly updating employees on company developments, goals, and performance. Encourage an open-door policy and actively seek and address employee feedback.

 Transforming Challenges into Opportunities

The Great Resignation is a pivotal moment for HR professionals in the UK to reevaluate their talent strategies and redefine their approach to talent retention. By implementing flexible work arrangements, prioritizing employee well-being, and investing in career development, organizations can not only navigate the current employment landscape but also transform challenges into opportunities for lasting success. The statistics paint a clear picture of the evolving workforce, and it’s now up to HR leaders to embrace change, adapt their strategies, and usher in The Great Retention.