Building an Employee First Workplace - November Voice 2022

Building an employee-first workplace

The key to retaining and attracting employees

As the economy struggles to recover from the pandemic, businesses are evaluating ways to make themselves stand out as an employer of choice.

At Rock Valley Credit Union (RVCU), we are taking a people-first approach by actively creating a desirable work environment that considers and fulfills the needs of our most important asset— our people.

A people-first approach is about business leaders caring for their team members first and foremost. This, in turn, boosts engagement, retention, productivity, and creativity.

Recruiting and hiring also benefit. When we show candidates that we put our people first, we can attract a more diverse pool of potential employees who bring a range of backgrounds, culture, experience, skills and perspectives.

Tips for building a people-first culture

■ Learn what employees want. While a large salary alone may have attracted candidates in the past, today’s job seekers are looking for a sense of purpose, shared values, opportunities for advancement and work-life balance. Developing a people-first mindset improves employee retention. Happy employees are less likely to look for opportunities elsewhere.

■ Be approachable. As a leader in your organization, let employees know you are willing to listen to them, to help solve problems and make the team better. Empathize with employees by putting yourself in their shoes. Don’t dismiss their concern or criticism. By listening to them and acting on the issues, employees in turn feel heard and valued.

■ Be transparent. The pandemic taught us that change is constant in the workplace. But employees can’t be expected to embrace change immediately. Be transparent and share the “what” and “why.” Invite employees to be a part of figuring out the “how.”

RVCU walks the talk

RVCU was recently recognized as a 2022 Best Credit Union to Work For by Credit Union Journal. As part of the nomination process, RVCU was asked to provide details on its employee engagement programs, succession planning, benefits and flexible work schedules. The final factor in the nomination process was an anonymous employee survey that each employee had the option to complete. Our employees went above and beyond by completing the survey and sharing the positive culture at RVCU. We are very proud of this recognition as it’s based on feedback directly from our employees.

Creating a people-first culture shows you believe in your employees and want them to succeed. It makes an organization more attractive to others who find the work you’re doing compelling and the culture both exciting and supportive.

Jeanine Fadness is the director of human resources at Rock Valley Credit Union. She is responsible for human resource initiatives including recruiting, benefits and employee relations.

The views expressed are those of Fadness and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.