Holding onto staff is the most pressing HR priority for UK employers in 2007, according to research by Manpower.

It found adapting to legislation and dealing with absence management are also significant issues for UK businesses. 
Mark Cahill, managing director at Manpower UK, says:  “Keeping staff turnover low takes time and investment.  Lower staff turnover results in a more motivated and productive workforce and reduced recruitment costs.

“Pay and benefits are always important for workers, but employers also need to think of ways in which they can make a difference in other ways – from the developmental opportunities they provide staff, how they communicate with staff, and even the nature of the working environment.”

Separate research covering more than 800 workers reveals that many staff are more motivated by career opportunities than money. Improved flexible working opportunities would encourage 22% of workers to stay with an employer longer and better communication (18%) and a better work environment (17%) would also encourage them to stay.