What does it take to find and keep good people at your workplace?

Surprisingly, the rebound from the Global COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a mass of people to quit or leave their jobs intentionally.

Employers are confused and frustrated.

Why are people leaving? Why can’t I hire and keep the talent I need?

The answer, as difficult as it may be, often lies with the very leaders who bemoan their situation.

People’s primary pain points center on a weak or deteriorating relationship with their boss.

What these leaders get wrong is how much effort and money it takes to hire and keep good employees.

Meanwhile, their people feel, much like my friend, that it wouldn’t take much from their leaders for them to feel engaged and motivated.

What people need to feel valued and stick around are just a few simple things.

• A livable wage
• A boss who notices them.
• A feeling of purpose.
• Safe work conditions.
• A team that cares.
• Occasional positive feedback and appreciation.

People are not machines, and leading isn’t rocket science.

It doesn’t take much.

What it does take are consistent and straightforward practices that emphasize your people’s humanity.

Here are ten ways that you as a leader or team member can Show Up™️ to create a stronger, more resilient, and long-lasting team.

1. Boost your team\’s strength by telling your people you value them.Comment on something they did well and why it mattered. Be specific.

Your draft of the quarterly report was very thorough. It makes my life much easier when the reports are done that well.

2. Send a (physical) note to them and/or their partner saying thank you for doing your part.

Dear employee, it\’s been a busy year for us. I know you\’ve had to make sacrifices and put in hard efforts. I see your contributions and value them. I know that in order to contribute as you have that you\’d had to also juggle your life at home and ask your loved ones to support you in your work efforts. For the entire team at your back, I am grateful.

3. Notice their emotional mindset, be curious and interested in how they are doing.

Charlie, I noticed you were more quiet than usual on today\’s call. Is everything okay? Can I do anything to help?

4. Check-in beyond the to-do list.

Start your meetings with just 5 minutes of connection before diving into work. How was your weekend? How are your kids doing at school? So nice to hear. Now we can get into the nitty-gritty at work.

5. Leave a gift card for dinner out for them.

I know you\’ve been working hard. Take a night out with your loved one to relax and refresh.

6. Talk up their work at a team meeting with specific details.

Thanks to Jennie\’s concise report we were able to…

7. Ask about their aspirations and dreams.

Make time in a monthly check-in about what people hope for in their professional and personal lives. Do you envision this job taking you anywhere in particular? What skills are you building or want to build that matter to you?

8. Open up about your story, what moves you, why you do what you do

Share with your people the answers to some of these questions: How did you get to the role you\’re in today and why does it matter? What calls you to be in your job now? Why do you work? This will help your people see you as a real human being and create an environment of trust.

9. Acknowledge when you make a mistake—it makes you human.

10. Host a team experience that builds trust.

Open a meeting with a great question, bring in lunch, sponsor a team retreat, do something playful, etc.

Download these techniques to keep in your back pocket.