Keep Your Team: Retention Tips for September

Keeping good staff is more important than ever. With many roles available across Felixstowe and Suffolk, your employees have options. This article looks at ways to ensure your best people want to stay with you.

Understanding the Current Landscape

The job market in shipping and logistics remains active. We currently see 17 live vacancies in freight forwarding alone, plus 8 in warehousing and 6 in transport. This high demand means your team members could easily find new opportunities elsewhere if they feel undervalued.

Consider the salary landscape too. Median advertised salaries from our own vacancies show significant figures, such as £48,750 for driving roles and £43,750 for transport positions. While salary isn't the only factor, it's a strong indicator of market value. If you haven't reviewed your pay scales recently, it might be time.

Beyond the Pay Cheque

While competitive pay is crucial, it’s not the only thing that keeps staff happy. People look for growth, a good working environment, and feeling appreciated.

• Career Development: Do your staff see a future with you? For example, someone in a freight forwarding role (median salary £33,500) might aspire to senior management (median salary £42,500). What pathways do you offer?
• Work-Life Balance: The demands of logistics can be high. Are you flexible where possible? Can you offer predictable shifts or support childcare needs?
• Recognition: A simple "thank you" goes a long way. Regular feedback, both positive and constructive, helps staff feel seen and valued.
• Working Environment: Is your workplace safe, comfortable, and well-equipped? This includes everything from proper breaks to accessible facilities.
• Training & Skills: Investing in your team’s skills makes them more effective and shows you believe in their potential. Consider courses in new software or industry regulations.

What to do this month

• Review Pay & Benefits: Benchmark your current salaries against market rates, particularly for roles like driving (£48,750 median) and transport (£43,750 median).
• Conduct Stay Interviews: Talk to your existing, high-performing employees. Ask them what they like about working for you and what could be improved.
• Map Career Paths: For your key roles, outline potential progression routes. Discuss these with your staff and identify any training gaps.
• Recognise Achievements: Plan a small team event or start a 'spotlight' recognition programme to acknowledge good work.
• Check In on Wellbeing: Organise a brief, informal chat with each team member to see how they are doing and if they have any concerns.