Throughout my professional career, I have experienced first-hand multiple individuals (co-workers, parts of the leadership team, etc.) leaving a job. The most surprising situation was when two separate co-workers left the company during the same summer. Both of these individuals had many responsibilities each day, heavily involved in communication with the trade partners, writing contracts, organization of the project, and problem solving. Both of these individuals did not leave at the same time, rather spaced a couple months apart. Was it compensation? Too much workload?

This construction project was unusual compared to other common construction projects, involving much more paperwork and coordination each day. This continued to add to the stress on site. As far as compensation for working in this position, it included industry average salaries, most likely slightly higher hours each week, and increased time at the computer rather than on site.

Some of the beginning signs of job dissatisfaction were decreased motivation and drive shown by these individuals. Response times started to increase and proactively addressing problems on site was not evident anymore. These individuals were working more hours per week than anticipated, and it was very hands-off.

I do believe that increased compensation could have prevented these individuals from leaving the company, but it was not the driving factor. Increased workload and too many hours worked each week were the main contributors to decreased effort, and eventual resignation.

I also think that comparing this job position to other projects around the area made it look like unfair compensation. Other workers for the company on other projects were getting paid the same salary for less hours and less stress. Yes, any job can bring stress and unanticipated workloads, but compensation should be adjusted to reflect this. Overall, I believe that the company could have retained these two individuals with additional compensation.

Sources:

Week 8 Lecture Material – Compensation