Retention of Technical Employees

Retention of information technology specialists and other technical

employees is a particular concern for many employers. The demand for
such specialists and other highly skilled employees is so strong that
companies have been very innovative in their retention efforts. For
example, Burlington Northern Santa Fe has implemented a career
development institute in which employees can learn new computer
languages and other technical skills. The company also has increased the
amount of communication with its technical employees and has helped
develop their business knowledge and awareness. Alcon Laboratories also
has implemented special measures to help retain information technology
employees. The company has a well-deserved reputation for being a very
stable employer. It also offers very attractive compensation and benefit
packages and gives employees the “red carpet” treatment. In addition, the
company has a dual career ladder or track program for its information
technology professionals. Like many other companies, Alcon allows casual
dress and has implemented innovative work schedules such as allowing
employees to work 80 hours in nine days in order to gain an additional day
off.62 Page 39 STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT Section One Other Practices in
Facilitating Retention Opportunities for training, new learning, growth, and
promotion also have positive impacts on retention. Similarly, liberal transfer
policies tend to reduce employee turnover. When employees can transfer,
they have the opportunity to leave problem situations and are less likely to
leave the organization. In addition, effective management of diversity and
prevention of sexual harassment tend to increase retention.63 Marriott
International, another of Fortune’s top 100 employers, has a workforce
consisting of more then 50 percent minorities. The company has an
excellent reputation for training and advancement opportunities and has a
voluntary turnover rate of 37 percent even though the company operates
in a low-wage industry. Enterprise Rent-A-Car also provides excellent
opportunities for advancement as it moves new college graduates quickly
into management jobs.64 A summary of these positive influences on
employee retention is presented in Table 1-1. Page 40 STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT Section One Table 1-1 Investment Opportunities for Improving

Employee Retention Page 41