Case of the Stolen Employees

Top Silicon Valley tech companies were reportedly negotiating agreements to prevent stealing each other’s employees.

Employee poaching is on the rise in other industries too.

You can never tell if it’s just small talk when you see your employee chatting to the competitor’s hiring manager.

How can business owners and managers protect against poachers?

“Companies don’t have to worry about losing their employees if they’re treating them fairly. This means salaries and benefits competitive with their competitors,” says Suzanne Lucas, HR expert and author of the Evil HR Lady blog.

But if you’re a business owner who’s still concerned, a non-solicitation clause is one way to work around recruiters who play unfair.

On the receiving end, employees should assess their long-term risks when contacted by competitors.

“I caution approached employees to consider the offer carefully from different angles. Look beyond the salary to longer-term career goals,” says Lisa Rosendahl, HR professional and founder of the Women of HR blog.

Determine if the new job is worth potentially burning bridges with your current employer, she adds.

And all parties should maintain professionalism at all times.

Sharlyn Lauby, president of ITM Group Inc. advises: “Stay classy everyone. Whether an employee decides to accept or decline the offer, the business world can be very small.”

Bonus PINK Link: How to decide if an employee is just for now, or for life!

Have you been another employee for your company?

By Carmen Harbour

“Honesty is the cornerstone of all success.”
Mary Kay Ash