Did you know that companies investing in employee development report a 34% higher retention rate? In today’s competitive job market, empowering employees to take charge of their career development is not just a nice-to-have but a critical business strategy. It takes two.
Just as a pilot and co-pilot work together to navigate a plane to its destination, a leader and an employee must collaborate to chart a successful career path. The pilot, like a leader, provides guidance, support, and the overall direction, ensuring that the flight (employee’s career path) stays on course. Meanwhile, the co-pilot, akin to the employee, takes an active role in steering, making critical decisions, and adjusting to changing conditions. This partnership ensures that both the plane and the employee reach their objectives safely and efficiently, with the co-pilot learning and growing with every mile.
In this blog post, we will explore the power of employee behavioral assessments, provide actionable tips for leaders to support their employees’ paths, and showcase why focusing on employee growth can significantly enhance engagement and retention.
1. The Power of Personality Trait Assessments
Personality trait assessments, like those offered by the Omnia Group, can be game changers in understanding employee strengths, challenge areas, and preferences. Employee development assessments provide clear insights into individual traits and growth areas. This understanding empowers employees to map out personalized development plans, set realistic and achievable goals, and proactively work toward their career aspirations. By having a concrete roadmap for improvement and success, employees can see a direct link between their efforts and their career progression within the organization, making them feel more invested and motivated in their roles.
2. Empowering Employees Through Autonomy
Giving employees autonomy is essential for fostering a sense of ownership and accountability over their career paths. When employees feel in control, they are more likely to stay motivated and aligned with company goals.
Once an employee is armed with the data from their unique personality assessment, leaders should encourage them to take action. Set aside time to review the output of their report, identify activities the employee can engage in that further leverage their strengths while also looking for opportunities to stretch and grow in those areas that need development.
Here’s what this looks like: A leader sits down with their employee to review their development report and says, “To take control of your own development and career growth, I’d like you to start by creating an Individual Development Plan. Begin with a self-assessment using the results from your recent personality trait assessments. Next, set SMART goals that align with your career aspirations. For each goal, outline specific actions you’ll take – whether it’s attending industry conferences, completing online courses, or seeking mentorship within our company. We’ll have regular check-ins to discuss your progress and any adjustments needed. This plan will empower you to take charge of your growth and ensure you’re on a path that excites and motivates you.”
Now the employee is in the pilot’s seat with the help and encouragement of their supervisor.
3. The Critical Role of Leadership
Leadership plays an essential role in cultivating an environment where employees feel supported and encouraged to grow. Effective leaders provide the necessary resources and create a culture of continuous improvement and recognition.
For example, leaders can implement a quarterly “Career Development Day” where employees are encouraged to spend the day focused on their personal career goals and professional development. During this day, employees can choose from various activities such as attending workshops, setting up one-on-one meetings with mentors, meeting with higher level leaders, or working on personal projects that align with their growth areas identified through assessments. By giving employees the time and freedom to focus on their development, leaders empower them to take initiative and drive their own career progression, which fosters a deeper connection to their roles and the company’s objectives.
4. The Impact on Retention, Productivity, and Business Success
Investing in employee development and empowerment leads to a workforce that is more engaged, productive, and loyal. A survey by LinkedIn found that 94% of employees would stay at their company longer if it invested in their careers.
The business impact is profound:
- Increased retention rates mean reduced hiring and training costs.
- Higher employee engagement leads to enhanced productivity and innovation.
- Stronger alignment between individual and company goals drives business success.
Empowering employees to set their own goals and development plans cultivates a sense of ownership and accountability, leading to increased motivation, engagement, and alignment with company objectives. To chart your course to foster a thriving work environment, implement the following steps:
- Deploy employee behavioral assessments during onboarding to tailor development programs.
- Use assessment results to align roles with employees’ strengths and preferences.
- Allow employees to set and manage their own career goals using the SMART goal methodology.
- Encourage their participation in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of belonging and influence.
- Offer continuous training programs and focused development days tailored to individual needs identified through assessment data and action plans.
- Establish mentorship programs to guide employees through their development journey.
- Provide regular, constructive feedback that helps employees improve and grow.
- Recognize and celebrate achievements, both big and small, to motivate ongoing engagement.
A Flight Path Focused on Success
By taking a co-piloting approach to employee development, you put employees in their own driver’s seat. Employees take personal accountability for their growth, goal achievement, and career development. Utilizing personality trait assessments is the starting foundation. Fostering a supportive environment, businesses drive engagement and increase retention. Leaders who prioritize employee growth not only build a more committed and motivated workforce but also pave the way for long-term success.
Omnia is here to help!
Ready to empower your employees and boost your business success? Contact our team today to learn how our employee behavior assessments and development strategies can help your employees and business thrive.
