How to Keep Your Best Employees: Skip the Professional Growth Hype

Do This:

1. Do give employees space to explore their passions: Sometimes, the best way for your employees to grow professionally is to let them pursue their interests, even if they're not directly related to their current job. For example, if a graphic designer is interested in coding, let them take a coding course. It might not seem relevant initially, but it could benefit your company unexpectedly.

2. Do encourage your employees to take time off: Sometimes, the best way for your employees to grow professionally is to take a step back and recharge. Encourage them to take vacation time or even just a mental health day. If they return to work feeling refreshed and energized, they'll be more productive and creative.

3. Do let your employees make mistakes: This might sound counter-intuitive, but sometimes the best way for your employees to grow professionally is to make mistakes and learn from them. They'll never learn and flourish if you're constantly micromanaging them and not allowing them to take risks.

Don't Do This:

1. Don't force your employees to attend every conference and training session: While offering opportunities for professional development is essential, don't make attendance mandatory. Your employees might not be interested in every conference or training session, and forcing them to attend could hurt their motivation and engagement.

2. Don't assume that everyone wants to climb the corporate ladder: Not everyone wants to be a manager or a director. Some people are happy staying in their current role and becoming experts in their field. Refrain from assuming that everyone wants to climb the corporate ladder and push them into leadership roles in which they might not be interested.

3. Don't forget to recognize and reward your employees: Even if you're not pushing professional growth, it's still important to recognize and reward your employees for their hard work and accomplishments. Refrain from assuming that they're satisfied with just a paycheck. Little things like a thank you note or a small bonus can go a long way in keeping your employees engaged and motivated.