Turning Career Cushioning into Opportunity for SMEs

Today, many employees are seeking new job opportunities alongside their current roles, which can lead to an increase in resignations if they find a more suitable position. For SME owners, this trend, known as Career Cushioning, can be worrisome. However, did you know that this challenge might actually be an opportunity for SMEs to evolve? Let’s explore how!

Understanding Career Cushioning

Career Cushioning refers to the trend where employees start looking for backup jobs while still working in their primary roles. This could be seen in two ways. On the one hand, it’s a form of proactive planning for their own career stability. On the other, it might feel like a betrayal to some employers.

Regardless of the perspective, SMEs today are particularly affected by this trend, especially as finding skilled, reliable talent can be a challenge. But even in this difficult situation, SMEs can develop strategies to turn it into an opportunity.

Preventing High Turnover: Proactive Steps SMEs Can Take

▪️ Set Clear, Fair Policies

Having well-defined and fair policies, communicated to all employees, helps foster a sense of belonging and reduces the risk of losing talented staff.

▪️ Define Job Descriptions Clearly

Nobody wants a vague job role. Clear scopes of work help employees understand their roles better and reduce job dissatisfaction.

▪️ Offer a Transparent Career Path

Employees work for growth. By establishing a realistic and clear career path, SMEs can encourage long-term commitment.

When Career Cushioning Leads to Higher Turnover, What Can SMEs Do?

✔️ Conduct Exit Interviews to Identify Gaps

Use the exit interview process to uncover the real reasons behind resignations. These insights reveal areas for improvement within the SME.

✔️ Strengthen Employee Management Systems

Turn identified weaknesses into opportunities to develop a robust employee management system. Determine the ideal number of employees for your operations.

✔️ Recruit Talent That Truly Fits

Everyone has the right to pursue new opportunities, and this situation allows SMEs to seek out candidates who are genuinely the right fit for the company.

Career Cushioning might feel like a crisis for SMEs, but with the right preventive measures and an open mindset, it can be turned into an opportunity. By embracing this trend, SMEs can adapt and even lower turnover rates in the future.

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