What if it were possible to transform the lives of entry-wage workers and transform the businesses they work for at the same time?
Springboard Forward’s “Engaged Employment” program is doing just that. The program, supported by United Way’s Bay Area Community Fund, connects low-skill workers with career ladders and job coaching while increasing morale and productivity for employers.
Recently Springboard conducted a career-mapping workshop for 40 employees of El Camino Hospital and deployed a team of career coaches to refine each worker’s personalized plan for success.
“We’re investing in our employees’ futures, and they truly appreciate it,” said Tamara Stafford, a member of the hospital’s Human Resources team “Staff are already more motivated and engaged at work. The logistics of covering all work shifts while scheduling coaching sessions hasn’t been easy, but the long-term benefits are worth it.”
This approach works because it helps workers improve their skills while addressing chronic business challenges such as low-morale and absenteeism.
“Although this model might seem counterintuitive—because it potentially means an employee is being trained to advance out of his or her current job—it really works,” said Elliott Brown, Springboard Forward founder and executive director. “Engaged employees are more productive, committed and conscientious, which reduces turnover, increases sales and improves customer service.”
44% of Engaged Employment participants received a raise or promotion within four months
80%-90% annual job retention among participants
79% of companies reported improved employee-manager relationships
