Creating Confidence: How to Foster Job Security in the Workplace

Establishing job security is crucial to boost employee engagement and cultivate a positive workplace culture. In this article, we explore the essential elements that help employees feel secure about their future

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on CPDUK

Job security is an employee’s confidence in the stability of their position within an organisation. When employees feel uncertain about their future, they may become disengaged and look for more secure opportunities, which can lead to problems for the organisation. To promote job security, schools should focus on fostering a culture of development and clearly defining goals for their staff.

Professional Roadmaps

A school with clear goals can effectively communicate its expectations to employees, utilising targets and key performance indicators (KPIs) as a framework for setting these goals. SBLs need to understand their employees’ personal career goals, as this can help identify where individual ambitions align with the school’s objectives.

For example, if an organisation aims to boost its social media presence and an employee wants to enhance their digital skills, this common interest can be used to develop a career roadmap that is mutually beneficial. By encouraging employees to grow professionally while they work towards the organisation’s goals, both employees and the organisation can benefit.

Supported CPD

By supporting and promoting ongoing learning, SBLs demonstrate that they value staff development and are committed to their growth. It’s essential to ensure that all employees feel encouraged to participate in learning opportunities, regardless of their age or length of employment.

This encouragement should extend beyond in-house training programs. Contrary to outdated beliefs, employees who receive training are not more likely to leave and take their skills elsewhere. In fact, research shows that the opposite often occurs when employees feel supported in their development, they tend to develop a stronger loyalty to their organisation

Future Development

Monetary rewards, such as bonuses and salary increases, can significantly enhance employees’ sense of job security by affirming their value within the organisation and outlining a clear path to success. When employees understand the criteria necessary to achieve these rewards, it helps them focus on their roles and develop the skills and knowledge required to enhance their performance.

Moreover, managers should be explicit about potential progression pathways and the associated rewards, which may include not only financial incentives but also additional benefits such as flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and enhanced job responsibilities.

By actively promoting professional development, creating clear career roadmaps and offering meaningful rewards, organisations can cultivate a supportive environment where employees feel secure in their futures, ultimately leading to a more dedicated workforce and a thriving organisational culture.