In this episode of "The Valley Today," host Janet Michael sat down with Guy Curtis, Director of Marketing at Laurel Ridge Community College, and Jay Foreman, Corporate Training Sales Manager at Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions, to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing employers today: employee retention. The conversation quickly moved beyond the old assumptions about why people leave their jobs, revealing a landscape where purpose, engagement, and culture now outweigh traditional motivators like pay and benefits.

Why Employees Really Leave

Jay brought a fresh perspective, sharing the top seven reasons employees seek new opportunities. Surprisingly, compensation no longer tops the list. Instead, employees crave strong onboarding, clear communication, opportunities for growth, a positive work culture, and most importantly, a sense of purpose and engagement in their work. Jay explained, “People want to know they’re making a difference. That’s what keeps them invested.”

Generational Shifts and Communication Gaps

The trio explored how generational differences shape workplace expectations. Younger employees, less tied down by mortgages or long-term commitments, are more likely to switch jobs or even careers in search of fulfillment. Guy & Jay emphasized the importance of understanding these shifts, especially in communication styles. Today’s workforce often prefers texting or emailing over face-to-face conversations, a reality that can frustrate managers from older generations. “Once we understand the ‘why’ behind these behaviors, it’s easier to adapt and lead effectively,” Jay noted.

The Power of Tailored Training

Laurel Ridge’s approach to corporate training stands out for its customization. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, the team conducts thorough (free) needs assessments, working closely with company leaders to identify root causes of turnover. Training programs are then tailored to the unique culture and challenges of each organization, blending hands-on activities, group discussions, and real-world scenarios. “We’re not just teaching skills—we’re building relationships and fostering long-term growth,” Jay said.

Investing in People Pays Off

The conversation highlighted the ripple effect of investing in employees. When organizations show they value their staff—by offering training, supporting community involvement, and encouraging personal growth—employees respond with loyalty and engagement. Janet shared stories of companies like Navy Federal Credit Union, which pays employees to volunteer in the community, creating a sense of pride and connection that extends far beyond the workplace.

A Call to Action for Employers

As the conversation wrapped up, the message was clear: retaining top talent requires more than competitive salaries. It demands a holistic approach that prioritizes meaningful work, open communication, and ongoing development. Laurel Ridge Community College / Workforce Solutions stands ready to partner with organizations seeking to build stronger, more resilient teams. As Jay put it, “It’s not rocket science—just reach out, and we’ll help you get started.”

For more information on upcoming webinars and job fairs, visit laurelridge.edu or laurelridgeworkforce.com.