The Top Predictor of Higher Ed Employee Retention May Surprise You
In 2022-23, turnover of higher ed employees was the highest in five years. A new report from CUPA-HR explores the issue of higher ed employee retention and the factors that impact retention.
The CUPA-HR 2023 Higher Education Employee Retention Survey analyzed data from 4,782 higher ed employees — administrators, professionals and non-exempt staff, with faculty excluded — from 529 institutions. It found that 33% of higher ed employees surveyed answered they were “very likely” or “likely” to look for new employment opportunities in the next year. More than half (56%) of employees are at least somewhat likely to search for a new job in the coming year.
Top Reasons Higher Ed Employees Are Looking for a New Job
According to the findings, respondents say that pay is the number one reason they’re looking for a new job. Other influential reasons are an opportunity to work remotely, desire for a promotion or more responsibility, and the need for a more flexible work schedule.
But while pay is the top concern mentioned by employees, retention challenges are more complex.
Strongest Predictors of Retention
Digging deeper into the data, the strongest predictors of retention are factors related to job satisfaction and well-being. Only 58% of higher ed employees are generally satisfied with their jobs. Of the 16 aspects of job satisfaction and well-being the survey measured, the three that have the most impact on retention are:
- Recognition for Contributions
- Being Valued by Others at Work
- Having a Sense of Belonging
Only 59% of respondents say they receive regular verbal recognition for doing good work. The good news is that programs, training and policies that increase employee satisfaction in these areas can make a significant impact on retention without necessarily breaking the budget.
Three Things You Can Do
Employees are not necessarily planning to flee higher ed. Most job seekers will be looking within higher ed, and nearly half will be looking within their own institution, indicating that it’s not too late to implement retention strategies. Here are three things you can do to assess and address job satisfaction:
- Read the Report. The CUPA-HR 2023 Higher Education Employee Retention Survey provides not only data but also a model for understanding higher ed retention. (Looking for an overview of report findings? Check out our press release.)
- Explore CUPA-HR Resources. Here are several that focus on aspects of job satisfaction:
- Plan Next Steps. Share the report or press release with leaders on your campus. Determine areas where your institution could strengthen career development and implement training to increase job satisfaction.
