Work atmosphere key to attracting talent: Survey

High salary, job security also important

To attract top talent, work atmosphere is key, according to a recent survey by Randstad.

Having a good environment is the most important factor when searching for a new employer, according to 60 per cent of the 7,000 Canadians surveyed.

High salary (56 per cent), job security (53 per cent) and good work-life balance (48 per cent) also top the list as the most important factors for workers when seeking an employer, found the survey.

The results indicate workers and jobseekers want to be a part of an organization that can benefit them on both a personal and professional level, said Jan Hein Bax, president of Randstad Canada.

"While salary is obviously important, most Canadians do not want to achieve financial success at the expense of their personal benefit. It is important for Canadian organizations to put an added emphasis on ensuring that their employees have a pleasant work environment, and can achieve work-life balance, through benefits and programs like compensation for personal memberships, flexible hours, team-building activities and employee recognition programs, for example," said Bax.

In today's tight employment market, organizations face stiff competition in attracting qualified, talented employees. According to Bax, if companies want to be a magnet for smart talent they must use their culture to attract creative people and inspire growth.

"Managers who take the time to learn what's important to their team members are in the ideal position to help bring employee and organizational goals together,” said Bax. “Better alignment will result in greater contribution and career satisfaction, leading to improved employee engagement — all of which ultimately impacts the bottom line.

"Companies need talented, creative people to compete. And more than ever, companies need the right culture, mission, and meaningful work to attract and retain quality employees.”

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