Private-Sector CIOs Reveal Staff Retention Strategies

Private-sector CIOs are taking steps to persuade valued staff to stay, according to a recent survey. In fact, 63 percent of CIOs polled said they're providing professional development opportunities to retain their best people. Offering flexible schedules and increasing base compensation also are popular retention strategies, among 47 percent and 41 percent of respondents, respectively.

The national poll includes responses from more than 1,400 CIOs from a stratified random sample of U.S. companies with 100 or more employees. It was conducted by an independent research firm and developed by Robert Half Technology, a leading provider of information technology professionals on a project and full-time basis.

CIOs were asked, "What steps, if any, is your firm taking to retain key IT talent?" Their responses:

• 63 percent: Providing training or professional development
• 47 percent: Offering flexible schedules
• 41 percent: Increasing base compensation
• 31 percent: Offering bonuses
• 9 percent: Offering equity incentives
• 4 percent: Other
• 23 percent: None/or no steps taken.(multiple responses were allowed).

"As the number of job opportunities for IT professionals increases, many CIOs are making retention a priority," said Katherine Spencer Lee, executive director of Robert Half Technology. "Firms recognize that technology workers, in particular, value ongoing educational opportunities to enable them to keep their skills current and continue learning on the job."

Lee added that effective retention programs also address work-life balance and salary issues. "Offering flexible schedules or telecommuting options is a cost-effective way to improve overall job satisfaction, show appreciation and build loyalty. Competitive compensation packages are equally important and demonstrate to employees that their contributions are valued."