Have you ever had one of your best members of staff leave you?

Maybe you’ve taught them all they know, or maybe they’ve been there since day one. Naturally, you feel mixed emotions – perhaps a bit annoyed, worried or confused? You can’t understand how after all the time you’ve spent on them, that they want to move on to pastures new.

It happens more often you think, but it is even more of a shock in smaller companies, for example – dental practices. In close knit teams, an employee leaving can come as a complete shock, but it happens and you must learn how to accept it, and know the steps to take to overcome it.

 

The first thing you need to know is that when your best member of staff leaves, that it isn’t personal. Really.

It might feel like a stab in the back, but you have to remember that top performers don’t just work on your business, they work on themselves. They are always looking to better themselves. So if they think it’s time to move on, it’s more likely because they want to progress, it’s not personal, so don’t take it that way. All good employers can and should help their employees to improve, not just in business but themselves. But, the reality is that you can’t do that for all employees at all times. If you can’t offer them what they need, they’ll go elsewhere and it really is that simple.

 

Don’t give them the cold shoulder.

It might take a while for the news to sink in, and you might feel as if you’ve been caught off guard, but the world keeps turning. Your business needs to keep running and there is plenty of talent out there. If your best member of staff leaves, don’t give them the cold shoulder. Don’t make them feel guilty for doing something that they want to do for themselves. The more uncomfortable you make them feel, the less work you’ll get out of them during their notice. Also, you don’t know how they might be able to help you one day. Don’t cut ties, after all, they’ve been there for you for the past however long.

Worried that they’ll take your clients with them?

That’s on you, not them. If you’re worried that you’re going to lose some clients when your member of staff leaves, you’re probably right. It might be the salt in the wound, but you should see this as an opportunity. What does it say about you and your other staff – are you as likeable? Have you built as strong brand relationships? Think about it, how long have you been going to your dentist, hairdresser or doctor? You’ve built up a level of trust and respect over time, and you might not want to opt for someone else –  so don’t be surprised if some of your clients leave with your colleague.

Finding someone new.

When your best member of staff leaves, filling their boots can be tricky. You often find yourself looking for them and their traits in new candidates. Don’t let this cloud your judgement. Someone new might just have as much experience, or more. Someone new might have a new way of working. Someone new might have different qualifications and need a little bit of training. Don’t dismiss someone because they are not a carbon copy of your ex colleague.

If you do need to find someone to fill a vacancy, you can do so with us. Here at Blue Glove Jobs, we’re committed to helping you find the best possible fit for your team. Why not list your vacancy with us today?