Help Wanted vs. Team Members Wanted

Help Wanted vs. Team Members Wanted
Hiring and Retaining Quality Employees in the Fast-Paced Marketplace

By Tyler Head

From time immortal, leaders have hung out “help wanted” signs. Come help me build my empire. I need someone to do the grunt work that I am unwilling to do, and I will trade you dollars for your time. No quote captures this concept better than this one by Henry Ford –

“Why is it every time I ask for a pair of hands, they come with a brain attached?”

Are you concerned about hiring quality employees and all-in teammates? Then get out of the “Help Wanted” mindset. Instead, start promoting “Help Appreciated.” or “Help Valued.” You could really go crazy and start looking for “Team members wanted to help us change the world.”

In this employee-scarce world, companies willing to invest in and grow people will win the day. Standing outside your place of business with a “Help Wanted” sign does not appeal to the employees that want to stay around and grow your vision with you. Instead of come to work for us, think come to work with us. Together we will achieve our mission and make a lasting difference. As a company, we are committed to growing and developing you to your full potential—no strings attached. Who wouldn’t want to work for that kind of company?

Here are a couple of questions to help you decide if you are holding up “Help Wanted” signs or attracting “Quality Help”:

1. Do my current employees feel the freedom to approach me? If so, how do I make them feel when they do? (*Hint:  Ask them candidly if you don’t know. That in itself will speak volumes.)
2. Do my direct reports offer their honest opinions only when asked? Or do they feel the liberty to provide ideas and opinions freely? (*Teamwork makes the dream work.)
3. Do I feel alone in my leadership position? (If so, you might want to take a step back and learn how to invite more people in.)

Years ago, the “Help Wanted” sign drew a hungry crowd. However, times are changing whether we like it or not. Let’s be leaders who not only attract quality help but retain, empower, and build up quality employees. If action begets action, then quality leadership begets quality employees, and that builds excellent workplace culture.

If you are interested in learning more, retaining quality employees, or developing excellent workplace culture, reach out to one of our Culture Coaches!

At DRYVE Leadership Group, we are skilled at building cultures that attract, retain, and develop quality employees. Contact us today!