Actions that will Boost Frontline Engagement and Retention

Introduction

Usually, the organizations feel that the job is done by hiring the right candidate. But the real challenge and roadblocks begin from this step. Along with technical training, and preparation for the tools required for the job description, there is another crucial aspect that is required. The employees need to be very strong in their soft skills irrespective of the organization. [1]

What are Soft Skills all about?

Unlike technical skills which don’t involve leadership and communication, soft skills focus on leadership skills, communication skills, social skills, lateral thinking and problem-solving abilities. Soft skills is a powerful advantage in corporate world because it makes things easier for organizations to communicate, work and collaborate faster- thereby reducing costs. In the current corporate world, every organization is focusing on soft skill training to their employees to boost the latter’s confidence levels and help them in growing in their respective careers.

How do we develop these soft skills?

Fortunately, there are many effective ways in which soft skills can be developed in employees. It begins with self-reflection of employees on what exactly they need and which area they need to improve. [2] Here are some tips for organizations to improve the employee’s soft skills:

1. Learning- A Lifelong Process: On contrary to the conventional thinking where learning stops at academic degrees, soft skills can be developed by encouraging the employees to inculcate a learning attitude. There is always something to learn in the organization- whether it is a technical skill or a non-technical lateral skill. Encourage your employees to improve their listening skills to start with.
    
2. Self-Reflection Goes a Long Way: Encourage the employees to self-reflect from time to time. This aids them to understand where they are going wrong and planning out on how to rectify it. It also helps the employees to be self-aware at the workplace.
   
   
3. Leverage a strong LMS Software: With virtual learning taking the front seat these days, installing an effective Learning Management System online and giving access to the employees becomes a great asset. The employees can revisit the LMS whenever possible to hone their skills consistently. Make these courses quite fun with regular assessments to make the employees engaged in learning. 
   
   
4. Provide Regular Feedback: Conducting regular feedback sessions with the employees by the management leads to a better understanding of where they are going in the work front. The consistent feedback sessions also boost the confidence of the employee and is beneficial to the organization as well. 
   
   
5. Hold Live and Interactive Workshops: These workshops should be highly interactive where the employees from different teams understand the workflow of the organization. Encourage the employees to open up and speak about the challenges they are facing at work. This brings a sense of belongingness to the organization for the employees. [3]
   
   
6. Work on Tangible Soft Skills: A tangible soft skill not only boosts the confidence of the employees but also make them thoroughly motivated to come up with innovative ideas.
   
   
7. Encourage Mentorship Culture: Mentorship programs improve leadership skills and help the employees grow along with the organization. Create an interactive environment with tools that can be used by the employees to showcase their skills to the organization. [4

References:

1. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-improve-soft-skills
2. https://www.talentlms.com/blog/developing-soft-skills-workplace-why-how/\
3. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2020/02/14/10-proven-methods-to-support-the-development-of-soft-skills-in-your-employees/?sh=3dde395f63cd
4. https://www.clevry.com/insights/developing-soft-skills

Written By:
Aviskaran Team
Content Writer, Aviskaran Technologies