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As an employer, there’s absolutely no doubt that you want to ensure your staff are happy. After all, a happy workforce equals increased productivity, lower staff turnover and an overall better place for everyone to work.
While some employees are all too happy to air their grievances, others will quietly get on with things until they resign. Losing top talent is always devastating and it can be even more upsetting to learn that they’re going elsewhere because they didn’t enjoy working for you.
If you’re concerned that your staff aren’t being vocal enough about their feelings, below are some of the most common warning signs that an employee may be unhappy in their role.
They’re always late – when we’re low on morale we tend to be more reluctant to go to work. While some people are just always late, if an employee who has historically been very punctual starts coming in late on a regular basis, alarm bells should be ringing.
They frequently call in sick – this could be because they can’t face coming into work or because they’re attending job interviews.
They won’t spend a minute longer in the office than they have to – some people may have to leave work on time every day in order to catch a train or pick up their children and while you shouldn’t expect employees to stay late on a regular basis, if someone can’t wait to run out the door as soon as the clock strikes 5:30, this may be something to worry about.
Productivity has decreased – one of the biggest indicators that an employee no longer enjoys their job is a decline in productivity. Even if they are getting their work done, maybe it’s not up to their usual standard, they’ve become unwilling to take on extra tasks or help others in the team.
They’re unsociable – if an employee refuses to socialise, attend work-related gatherings or even join in conversations with teammates around the office, it could be because they’re unhappy in their job. If you notice this behaviour in an employee, it’s important to talk to them about it sympathetically. They may be struggling with personal issues or perhaps they would love to come for after-work drinks but have childcare issues.
They’re no longer professional – unfortunately, when people are unhappy in their job, they can stop caring. If there’s a sudden change in a person’s attitude, ethics or they’ve stopped complying with company rules, they could be acting out because they no longer want to work there.
They seem fed up – keep an eye on employees who constantly sigh, fidget or complain about being tired. This could be down to issues at home or they could just be having a bad week but it can also be a sign that someone is completely fed up in their job and is ready to leave.
If you would like help with any of your recruitment needs, please feel free to contact Choralis Consulting and we will be more than happy to help.
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