How to attract and retain staff: Creating a culture of growth and development
by Tarnya Brink, Head of HR at Prolog Fulfilment
Efficiency and customer satisfaction remain the priority for most businesses today, and the fulfilment industry is no different. With over 2.5 million individuals employed in logistics and supply chain roles in the UK alone, attracting and retaining skilled professionals has become critical to delivering this. Organisations must not only attract top talent but also cultivate an environment that helps to develop, engage, and retain their best people.
The evolving landscape of workforce needs
In the UK, attracting and retaining staff remains a significant challenge for many employers. High competition for talent, coupled with issues in effective onboarding and escalating turnover rates, reinforces the importance of understanding employee priorities. Key factors such as competitive pay, robust work-life balance initiatives, job security, and a supportive, inclusive workplace culture consistently top the list of expectations.
Workplace demographics are also shifting, with Millennials and Gen Z employees now forming the majority of the workforce. These employees want to feel comfortable and respected in their workplace. They want to work for a company whose values align with their own, and they want to feel valued and appreciated for their contributions.
It’s estimated that by 2034, Gen Z will make up 34% of the workforce, closely followed by Millennials (32%), as well as the newcomers, Gen Alpha (15%). That means that 80% of the workforce will expect an investment in their ongoing growth, making it a key priority for business leaders.
Nurturing talent through development
Many businesses are finding it increasingly challenging to retain staff, and as we all know, replacing employees, (especially at higher salary levels), can be very costly. According to the CIPD, the average turnover for UK workers is 34% with three in ten employees leaving to join another organisation each year. As a response, organisations are increasing L&D budgets, upskilling staff and focussing on employee engagement.
Strategic recruitment practices
At Prolog Fulfilment, we recognise that our success depends on the dedication and expertise of our team members, and we know that the recruitment and onboarding process is crucial for us to build a dedicated and happy team. Our recruitment strategy is focused on delivering a positive candidate experience, leveraging digital platforms and industry networks to attract diverse talent pools. We prioritise transparent communication and timely feedback, reflecting our commitment to respect and professionalism in every interaction.
Effective employee retention begins with effective onboarding processes that integrate new hires into the organisational fabric from day one. Investing in ongoing professional development, mentorship programs, and clear pathways for career advancement are pivotal in maintaining engagement and loyalty. By enhancing recognition and rewards, we celebrate individual and collective achievements, reinforcing our team’s value and commitment.
A culture of growth and development
Attracting and retaining top talent isn’t just about competitive salaries and benefits, it’s about creating an environment where individuals can thrive and grow. At Prolog, we prioritise development and well-being for our team. Our culture encourages open feedback and dialogue, ensuring that voices are heard and contributions recognised.
Sources
CIPD: Benchmarking employee turnover
Let’s Talk Talent: HR Statistics
Lantra: Warehousing & Logistics
Youth Employment UK: 10 Things Young People Look for in Employers
