In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Erica Keswin about her book, The Retention Revolution. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Erica and Jonathan discussed strategies for improving employee engagement and retention, emphasizing the importance of providing support, purpose, and intentionality in the workplace. They explored the significance of simple actions and intentional efforts to connect employees' roles to the larger mission, particularly in remote and hybrid work environments. The conversation also touched on the potential impact of AI and advanced robotics on the workplace, as well as the importance of human connection and performance in various industries.
Improving Employee Engagement and Retention
Erica and Jonathan discussed strategies for improving employee engagement and retention. Erica emphasized the importance of providing employees with the tools and support they need to succeed, likening it to hopping from lily pad to lily pad. Jonathan agreed, highlighting the significance of purpose and intentionality in motivating employees, particularly younger generations. They also touched on the need for leaders to improve their skills and up their game to better support their teams. The conversation ended with a discussion on the potential for simple actions, like recognizing an employee's broader purpose, to have a significant impact on employee motivation.
Improving Job Experiences With Intentionality
Jonathan and Erica discussed the importance of intentionality in improving job experiences. Jonathan shared his experience of working in a factory job and how he wished for improvements to make the job more meaningful and purpose-driven. Erica then highlighted the example of David Siegel, CEO of Meetup, who sends a personal welcome email to each new employee, mapping out how their role connects to the larger mission. Both agreed that taking a few minutes to be intentional and connect the dots can make a significant difference in job satisfaction.
Intentionality in Modern Remote Work
Jonathan and Erica discussed the importance of intentionality in the modern workplace, particularly in relation to remote and hybrid work models. They highlighted the need for balance between heavy cognitive load work and social interaction, and the potential for AI and advanced robotics to displace repetitive tasks. Erica emphasized the importance of human connection and performance, citing a study on firefighters. She also shared her work on the Retention Revolution and her upcoming book, and encouraged the audience to be more intentional in their use of technology to foster connection. Jonathan thanked Erica for her insights and encouraged the audience to reach out to her for more information.
Listen to the webinar here:
