The U.S. is in its 11th straight year of job growth, unemployment remains at a record low, and consumer spending is strong. As the talent gap widens in 2020, we are still very much in a candidate-driven market, meaning employers must work to keep talent engagement front and center. This goes beyond simply focusing on finding the right talent, but investing time and resources in improving the candidate experience, upskilling your workforce, and implementing an employee-first culture.

With professionals in the driver’s seat, they are making their priorities known when making career decisions. In addition to getting paid what they know they are worth, they expect their job to provide personal fulfillment and meaning. If your employees do not feel supported, aren’t learning new skills for the future, or are disengaged with their work, they will move on.

These needs will be heightened in the face of business uncertainty and change. During these times, your staff will look toward leadership for guidance and reassurance. If they do not feel you are being open and honest with them or that their position is secure, these attitudes will impact overall productivity, morale, and turnover.

With that said, leaders must turn their focus to creating the best experience possible for staff at all stages of the employee lifecycle. From potential new recruits to the most tenured employees, companies need to understand and adapt to what professionals are looking for as they advance in their careers. Additionally, employers must not wait until it is too late to try and win over employees who have one foot out the door. For employers, this means you need to start treating your employees as your greatest asset.