In the world of HR, the excitement of promoting employees can sometimes wane. Traditional assumptions about promotions ensuring employee retention are being challenged in an era where loyalty appears to be on the decline. Surprisingly, research from payroll services provider ADP reveals that promotions can lead to a nearly two-thirds increase in the risk of an employee leaving. Notably, 29% of employees choose to resign within a month of receiving their first promotion.
One contributing factor to the increased likelihood of employees quitting after a promotion is the heightened visibility of these advancements, thanks to platforms like LinkedIn. Recruiters actively monitor such updates, influencing their pursuit of potential candidates. The perception surrounding promotions is crucial, as employees may be promoted without a genuine interest in taking on new responsibilities. Studies suggest a simple yet powerful strategy for HR professionals: understanding their employees. Taking the time to know the aspirations and preferences of each employee can prevent misguided promotions. If an employee doesn’t harbour ambitions for advancement, pushing them into a leadership role may result in disengagement and hinder their development.
HR should provide employees with the opportunity to express their interest in leadership roles. Forcing an uninterested employee into a promotion can be counterproductive and may lead to wasted time and resources. Furthermore, studies underscore the importance of supporting promoted employees, especially in larger companies where individuals may find themselves thrust into leadership roles without adequate support. HR leaders should focus on making promoted employees feel valued in their new positions by offering the necessary support and resources to fulfil their tasks.
In essence, one should also advocate for a more personalized and supportive approach to employee promotions. By understanding individual aspirations, offering the right support, and avoiding promotion for promotion’s sake, HR professionals can navigate this terrain more effectively, ultimately fostering employee retention and development.
