Beyond Salary: 10 Valued Aspects that Keep Employees Engaged
In the medical field, retaining top talent goes beyond just offering competitive salaries. While straight dollar remuneration is crucial, there are several other factors that significantly contribute to employee engagement and satisfaction.
Here are ten valued aspects that keep employees engaged, supported by the latest insights from the Annual AusDoc.JOBS job seeker study.
1. Career Development Opportunities
Continuous Learning: Medical professionals highly value opportunities for career growth and skill development. Offering regular training sessions, workshops, and opportunities for further education can significantly boost engagement. The Annual AusDoc.JOBS job seeker study found that 36% of respondents prioritise opportunities to grow personally and learn new skills when choosing a job.
2. Flexible Working Conditions
Work-Life Balance: Flexibility in working hours and the ability to work part-time or from home (e.g. Telehealth services) are increasingly important. Over 60% of respondents highlighted the importance of flexibility in their job criteria. This aspect is particularly vital for younger doctors and those with families.
3. Positive Work Environment
Supportive Culture: A supportive and inclusive work environment fosters job satisfaction. Nearly 22% of GPs in the survey cited a family-friendly workplace as a significant factor for staying engaged. Creating a culture that values and supports employees’ well-being can lead to higher retention rates.
4. Recognition and Appreciation
Acknowledging Contributions: Employees who feel recognised for their hard work are more likely to stay engaged. In the Annual AusDoc.JOBS job seeker study, 22% of GPs in corporate practices reported feeling underappreciated, compared to 15% in non-corporate practices. Regularly acknowledging and rewarding employees’ contributions can enhance their commitment to the organisation.
5. Competitive Benefits
Beyond Salary: Offering comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans, can significantly impact employee satisfaction. The Annual AusDoc.JOBS job seeker study revealed that additional super contributions and paid parental leave are important to many GPs.
6. Autonomy and Empowerment
Control Over Work: Allowing employees to have a say in their work processes and decisions can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility. Empowering medical professionals to make decisions about patient care and practice management can lead to higher engagement.
7. Job Security
Stable Employment: Job security is less of a concern in the current market, with less than 5% of respondents moving due to organisational instability. However, ensuring a stable and secure employment environment remains a fundamental aspect of employee engagement.
8. Meaningful Work
Purpose and Impact: Medical professionals are driven by the impact of their work. Ensuring that employees understand the significance of their roles and how they contribute to the greater good can enhance job satisfaction and engagement.
9. Work Environment and Resources
Adequate Resources: Providing the necessary tools and resources for employees to perform their jobs effectively is crucial. Nearly 18% of respondents expressed concerns about working with outdated tools. Ensuring that your practice is equipped with up-to-date technology and resources can enhance productivity and satisfaction.
10. Clear Communication and Transparency
Open Communication: Maintaining transparent and open lines of communication between management and staff can build trust and engagement. Employees appreciate being kept informed about organisational changes, policies, and their impact on their roles.
Conclusion
While salary is a key factor in retaining medical professionals, there are numerous other aspects that significantly influence employee engagement and satisfaction. By focusing on career development, flexible working conditions, a supportive work environment, and recognising employees’ contributions, medical job recruiters can create a more engaging and fulfilling workplace. Implementing these strategies not only helps retain top talent but also enhances the overall quality of care provided to patients.
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Salary and Benefits