Employee Development Survey Results

Employee Development Survey

Surveys continue to show that employees are concerned about their development and can decide to move on if they’re not receiving both adequate training and career opportunities with their employer. The following results are from an online poll we recently conducted; the 0>200 respondents are within the hardware and housewares retailer and supplier community.

I am satisfied with the investment my organization makes in training and education (in %)

It’s good to see that over half of our survey respondents feel their current employer provides enough training to perform their roles effectively. Conversely, seeing 41% in some form of disagreement is concerning. Make sure you’re either providing training for your front line employees or providing an incentive for them to do it on their own, whether some kind of course completing bonus or tuition reimbursement, which is a strong benefit.

I am satisfied that I have the opportunities to apply my talents and expertise.

This question was directed to employees using their talents in their current role or on a project basis. It’s disconcerting to see that half feel they’re underutilized. This could be their perception and might be better determined in a two-way feedback review. Maybe you haven’t noticed they’ve been going above and beyond typical expectations? Encourage two way dialogue which should provide you with greater insights into what their triggers are. Not everyone is looking for a step up, but recognition in their current role can improve your chances of keeping a good employee and making them less receptive to a recruiter’s call.

I am satisfied with the job-related training my organization offers.

Survey results indicate over half agree that they receive adequate training as it relates to their current role. Still, one-third feel that they don’t receive the training that’s necessary to perform their job effectively. What can you do? Evaluate your current training that’s offered, supplement it with outside training (e.g. NRHA training programs for retail employees).

The bottom line; if you’re in doubt about your current level of training, ask your employees for their input, whether in a performance review or by anonymous survey…you may be surprised at the results!