Pub 9 2021 Issue 1

20 The Community Banker mibonline.org A ttracting and retaining talent is often a top priority for HR departments. The effects of the current pandemic on the jobmarket, have made this more challenging. While there may be more candidates than usual, at- tracting quality talent and retaining top performers remains a struggle, worsened by COVID-19 and its effects on the workplace. Here are a few tips to consider for attracting and retaining employees amid the pandemic’s challenges. Expand Your Hiring Pool The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how quickly teams can adapt, with some workplaces shifting entirely to telework. Many employers indicate they will allow telework permanently after months of remote-working success, even after the pandemic subsides. This flexibility enables recruiters to significantly increase the geographic search area of their hiring pools. Adapt the Workplace Layout Many workers are now more concerned about their health and well-being while at work. By addressing these concerns, employers can bring peace of mind to employees and, in turn, attract workers who may have held reservations about their safety. Adapt workplac- es to focus on employee health. This includes rearranging the office By Kindra Warman, Employee Consultant Levitt Great West Insurance ATTRACTINGAND RETAINING EMPLOYEES AMID CHALLENGES FROM COVID-19 21%OF CEOS RATE “TALENT RISK” AS THEIR BIGGEST OVERALL RISK. Guest Article