Report: Retailers concerned about top talent leaving their companies

Chicago As the recession eases and companies begin to add to strained staffs, retail employers are also taking action to retain existing top talent at their organizations. According to a new WorkInRetail.com survey, more than one-third (36%) of retail employers are concerned about losing their high-performing workers in the second quarter, while the same amount (36%) of retail workers said it is likely they will start looking for a new job when the economy picks up.

As a result, retail employers are turning to a variety of different retention strategies to hold onto those workers and their valuable intellectual capital. The survey was conducted between February 10 and March 2, among 290 retail employers and 731 retail workers.

Increased workloads, longer hours and fewer resources related to the recession may be contributing to job dissatisfaction. More than one-third (37%) of retail workers said they are dissatisfied with their pay. Meanwhile, nearly one-quarter (24%) of retail workers said they are dissatisfied with their work/life balance.

In addition, nearly one-third (32%) of retail workers are dissatisfied with the career-advancement opportunities provided by their current employers.

Of retail workers who have their sights set on making a career move, they shared the attributes they will be primarily looking for in a new employer in addition to competitive pay and benefits. Good work culture (62%) and the company's financial stability and growth potential (52%) topped the list.