OnQ's Executive Team kicked off 2017 with a retreat to discuss important issues. A variety of operational, market and industry topics were discussed and considered with a couple of topics rising to the top. Number one, how does OnQ attract and retain the very best talent in order to support new and existing client growth? Second, how will the new President and political environment view near-shoring and outsourcing?
To address the first question, OnQ introduced several initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining quality employees including a mentor program, a referral program, as well as some compensation-related adjustments. The employee buzz around OnQ right now is all about the mentor program - they love it!
Because of the investment OnQ makes in finding and training the best employees in Santiago, it can be expensive and painful if we lose an employee early in their career. I would estimate 75% of our employee attrition occurs within an employee's first 90 days at OnQ. It makes sense if you think about it. New employees are drinking from the proverbial fire hose, new in their role, don't know their fellow employees, etc. In Q1, we launched a mentor program that pairs new and established employees. The mentor becomes a "go to" resource for the new employee. Mentors answer work-related questions and are there to help the mentee become integrated into the OnQ family. The company sponsors several social activities for mentors/mentees as well. Early results indicate this is having a very positive impact on retention and an unexpected benefit of giving a high number of established employees some leadership responsibilities. A surprising number of employees have signed up to be mentors providing OnQ the added benefit of identifying shining stars and prospective managers. Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this important program.
The second question is more fluid. Presently, it appears the current administration is focused on manufacturing and specific countries with a perceived trade deficit. We will continue to monitor.
OnQ University continues to be a thriving educational opportunity for our associates to learn, grow, share and improve by attending classes taught by Managers and Supervisors. Q1 saw 169 associates earning a total of 387 educational credits. We also hosted a one-day Leadership Training where nearly 70 Managers, Supervisors and Team Leaders gathered on a Saturday to better understand group dynamics and how individual personality traits can impact company culture and team performance. Because so many members of our leadership team are early in their careers, many of them had not experienced advanced personality and team dynamic development coursework. It was fascinating to watch and was met with enthusiasm and gratitude by our leadership team!
MUY IMPORTANTE!!! OnQ Futbol had first tryouts. The journey to repeat as champions begins!
As always, a note of thanks to our clients... our partners... without whom none of this is possible. Thank you!
