Why do some businesses have a high turn-over rate? What is it that makes an employee leave their job?

During an exit interview, employers often ask the employee about their reason for leaving. While some answers may be true, if the employee is leaving for a negative reason and they feel that admitting that will give them a bad reference, they may not tell you the real reason.

Here are some common reasons why an employee might leave:

• They’re looking for a higher salary
  If an employees salary is no longer meeting their expectations or needs then they may begin to look elsewhere, regardless of whether they enjoy the job or not. When a new employee starts, it is important to discuss what the salary will be and if this is up for negotiation in the future so that they know what to expect. Consider having meetings every so often to review the employees progress and pay. Also consider if the employee should get a pay rise based on their work and value to the business.
• The workplace has a negative atmosphere
  Employees may want to leave if they feel unhappy in their workplace. It is good to ensure that the place you work in is clean, tidy and comfortable. People work much more efficiently and effectively when their surroundings are visibly more positive. Another factor to having a negative atmosphere at work is about the people in the workplace. Tension between colleagues can cause the workplace to feel tense and unwelcoming. Be sure to treat each person with kindness and respect and discuss any issues privately and respectfully.
• The workload is unmanageable
  If the employer has a demanding workload with unrealistic deadlines and little assistance, they can become overwhelmed. While work is important, it is also important to balance it with personal life. Being able to separate the two means that the employee is more likely to return to work feeling refreshed and able to work to their best ability. An exhausted employee will quickly become overwhelmed and tired with work taking over their personal time and will be more likely to leave for something that is more suitable.
• Lack of incentives
  Employees often leave a job if they feel as though they are not treated fairly or valued. If they feel this way at work each day, they may feel that there is no reason to stay there. An employer should reward employees on good work and achievements. This could be as simple as acknowledging it by pulling the employee aside and expressing your gratitude for the good work they have done. Other incentives such as access to certain healthcare can be a good incentive for an employee to stay.
• They have reached their maximum potential
  Another reason why an employee might leave is that they long for more progression in their career. If their current workplace is not offering a way to help them evolve in the business, they will search for somewhere that will give them that opportunity. An employer should discuss with the employee about their future goals and consider how they can help the employee progress within the business.