The vice president of a medical center remarked to me, "Today we're hiring people that three years ago we wouldn't have interviewed." Now that makes you feel good about getting injured or sick, doesn't it?
Businesses are struggling for bodies and no longer have the choices they once did. Still, I stick by what I've said for years: An empty slot is better than the wrong person in the slot. Finding someone to fill a position isn't that difficult, but finding and keeping someone who can produce high-quality results might be.
Employees are in shorter supply today than they were a few years ago, but they are still looking for the same things my parents did: meaningful work, good pay, and safe working conditions. The difference is that my parents were patient, timid, and loyal. Today's employees are straightforward, outspoken, and mobile. Work needs to be fun, challenging, and rewarding. If a more enjoyable environment exists elsewhere, then it's "Goodbye, current job."
Flexibility is on the lips of almost every employee. Employees want structure and direction along with choices and freedom. Using their time productively is foremost, and time away from work for self and family is a given.
Understanding employees as individuals is the key to long-term retention. Interview each employee about his or her unique needs, motivations, and concerns. Then flex the job to match as much as possible. Stay committed to being fair to everyone.
And when you still end up interviewing and even hiring people that previously would have been passed by, plan on a commitment to continuing education and to managers becoming an ongoing resource for them. Many less-than-ideal candidates can flourish when focused on the right mission.