Recently at Kinetic Recruitment we have spoken to a very large number of candidates of varying levels who have said, “I’m out as soon as I can find another role”. 

Throughout Covid, employees experienced first-hand how their employers take care of them. From the level of support offered, how they handled any salary reductions, to their communication and leadership style with senior management and direct reports.  

When you’re under pressure it becomes clear what type of boss or manager you have. It is in times like this, even more so, that management needs to show strong, unified, clear leadership and not add frustration or put unnecessary extra pressure on staff.

What Kinetic is hearing from unhappy candidates right now is that they are fed up with high pressure, unrealistic demands, blame, heavy cuts and lack of support, while management look after themselves.  These comments are coming from about 85% of candidates we are seeing today of varying levels. 

Employees are generally very aware of what’s going on internally and externally. When staff talk amongst themselves, job security and how the business is managing things and doing as a whole are hot topics of conversation. They are very aware and can easily see what is happening around them, especially now that times are tough and you are naturally heightened to your surroundings. 

Sometimes it’s just the very small things that can make the difference to whether a good staff member decides to leave or not.  It’s not always about money, you can show appreciation in many other ways.  I’m a firm believer in communication; giving your staff clarity around how the business is going, what is going well and what also needs improvement. I try my best to talk to each member of my staff regularly to see how they are doing personally, not work related. 

From the candidates we have seen that are unhappy, it’s not more money they want, it’s about having a supportive manager and cohesive team where they feel trusted to take ownership and accountability of their job so they can do their very best for the business.