Retention rates heavily influenced by work-life balance, job enjoyment

August 29, 2012
Retention rates heavily influenced by work-life balance, job enjoyment

According to a new study released on August 28 by the American Psychological Association (APA), the top reasons given by U.S. workers for remaining in their current jobs include the ability to maintain a positive work-life balance and getting general enjoyment out of their work.

The APA’s Workforce Retention Survey was conducted by Harris Interactive and asked 1,240 working adults about the importance of a number of factors that contribute to decisions about remaining in a job rather than seeking a new one. Benefits and pay were cited by a large portion of employees, with 60 percent and 59 percent, respectively, identifying those considerations as key reasons to stay in their current positions.

Meanwhile, 67 percent of respondents said they are motivated to stay with their employer because their jobs fit well with the other things that are going on in their lives. The same percentage said they remain in their positions simply because they enjoy their work.

Despite the economy’s sluggish recovery and the relatively high unemployment rate, only 39 percent of respondents cited lack of alternative job opportunities as a reason for remaining with their current employers.

Business leaders should keep these figures in mind when they are recruiting new workers. The APA’s research highlights the importance of hiring individuals who are not only technically qualified, but will fit well within an organization’s culture.

Partnering with corporate recruiters can help a company conduct a targeted search that matches it with professionals who will be motivated to stay in their positions and deliver strong performance levels over time. Recruitment firms can offer expertise in identifying and evaluating leading candidates in order to select the professionals that offer the best fit for a company.

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