Money Isn’t Always the Dealbreaker
A pay rise might tempt someone to leave. But it’s often not the root cause.
More often, it’s that feeling of being overlooked. Of doing the hard yards and wondering if anyone even notices. Or being stuck doing the same thing, with no chance to stretch or grow.
Sometimes, it’s because they’re tired of cleaning up other people’s messes. Other times, it’s deeper—they just don’t feel like they fit anymore.
That’s where mental health awareness training can make a difference. Not as a box to tick, but as a tool to actually understand what your team needs—before you lose them.
The Real Loss Isn’t in the Job Title
You don’t just lose a role when someone leaves. You lose their insight. Their history with the company. The way they hold the team together behind the scenes.
You lose a sounding board. A calming presence. Someone who genuinely gave a damn.
And when they walk, others start thinking…
“If they’re going, should I be looking too?”
This is why culture matters more than ever. Having an anti-bullying course is great, but it’s not enough. What matters is whether people feel safe, supported, and respected—every day, not just during induction.
If You Want to Keep Them, Start Here
Forget gimmicks. Here’s what works:
Ask real questions.
Not the fluffy ones. Ask, “Is there something we’re not doing well?” or “What would make work better for you?”
Give them room.
If someone’s ready to take on more, let them. Let them mess it up a bit. That’s how people grow—and growth keeps people engaged.
Say thanks, and mean it.
Not just for smashing goals. For showing up with a good attitude. For staying late when no one asked. For keeping the mood up during tough weeks.
Address the hard stuff.
If someone isn’t pulling their weight, speak up. Staying silent sends the wrong message to the people who are showing up every day.
Look after their mental space.
Check in. Make time. Join in on the little things, like workplace chats or activities for mental health month. It shows you care, even when things are busy.
Make Work Somewhere They Want to Be
People don’t just leave for better jobs. They leave when they feel like no one’s paying attention.
But they stay when they’re challenged. When they’re trusted. When they feel like their work means something.
You don’t have to be perfect. Just real.
Maybe now’s the time to ask,
“How’s work feeling lately?”
And really listen.
Because once someone’s made their mind up, your chance to keep them has already passed.
