8 Tips to Attract and Retain Top Talent

Published on : 3/16/22

Finding and retaining quality team members can be a challenge during ordinary times. Currently, senior living communities across the country are struggling to fill a variety of dining department positions in an increasingly competitive labor market.

Sodexo Seniors is an industry leader at attracting and retaining talented employees to work in unique or challenging locations. We employ and nurture caring, well-qualified employees who are deeply committed to creating exceptional experiences for seniors.

Our commitment to supporting employees’ needs and enabling professional development is reflected in our exceptional employee retention rates. Our secret? We’ve created the consummate blend of team culture, training and growth opportunities that make Sodexo Seniors an employer of choice at senior living communities across the country.

8 Tips for Building and Nurturing a High-Performing Team

Begin with the staff you have. They are the foundation of any successful operation. Build a sense of trust and camaraderie that keeps your team excited to go to work each day.
Staff, residents and departments should communicate regularly, openly and effectively. Keeping people well informed helps them feel like they’re part of the team. Make a concerted effort to bridge department silos for an integrated community experience. Constant, meaningful communication ensures that facilities can operate safely and smoothly.
During times of crisis as well as in times of calm, provide all managers with the latest news and policies that impact your industry. Being organized is critical to your managers. Keeping them apprised of industry updates enables managers to anticipate and address clients’ needs.
Train and train again. Ample information is much more effective when combined with training. Empower your staff with training to deliver deeper engagement to residents.
Listen to your staff and fulfill their requests for supplies whenever possible, assuring them that they can rely on their superiors and get what they need in a timely manner. It is vital to provide the supplies and materials necessary to maintain a sanitary work environment that protects employees’ health and safety.
Encourage communication among managers in different communities. Sharing best practices and providing support helps managers remain nimble and confident and enables them to work together to solve problems.
Empower your employees to take a therapeutic approach to service that considers each individual’s situation. Nurture your staff and lead by example — displaying empathy for your employees will inspire them to show compassion toward the residents they serve.
Mentor young employees. Pairing young employees with a senior staff member can improve retention and help young employees identify potential options for future career growth.