Turnover and What to Do About It

Abstract

This article examines how five organizations with different management styles handle turnover: La Quinta Motor Inns, Forte Hotels, Interstate Hotels, Sterchi Hotels, and the Opryland Hotel. In varying degrees, each of those companies emphasizes the following: ongoing training, continuing education, employee empowerment, open communication with management, and a show of appreciation for jobs well done. Recommendations to reduce turnover include: (1) Set, maintain, and follow job descriptions for each position; (2) Establish an orientation program; (3) Clearly and quickly communicate decisions; (4) Make sure everyone knows what's expected of him or her, and for what he or she is accountable; (5) Base rewards solely on results, and not on any subjective data; (6) Set standards at a high level; (7) Give employees as much authority as possible; (8) Establish a quality-assurance program; (9) Develop and maintain training programs; and (10) Create an atmosphere of trust and sharing.