Is my direct looking?

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified)
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General Questions and Comments
Hi, I'm sure this has been covered somewhere but I just can't find it. I have a direct I believe is looking for a new job. Should I question them on it? In recent O3's he has expressed satisfaction with his work, but some of his actions seem to say different. I already have a succession plan of sorts in place, so while I don't want to lose this person, I'm at least partially prepared for it. I found the guidance that says, if a manager challenges you on whether you are looking, there is no obligation to tell the truth, but can't find the manager perspective. Hmm. Maybe I've just answered my own question. If theres's no obligation to answer truthfully, what's point in asking... Thanks
Submitted by Mike Bruns on Saturday November 15th, 2014 3:15 pm

I don't know if there is specific guidance on asking,  But for me, it doesn't matter. 
I expect my directs to always have their resume up to date. I expect them to always be looking for opportunities, for themselves and my company. Slavery is outlawed, I can't force them to work for me.
What you can do, is have the best relationship with them you can. O3's, Feedback, Coaching, etc.  If they are looking because they are unhappy, have the relationship so that you know why they are unhappy.  You may not be able to do anything about it, but the relationship is key.  
Listen to the recent podcasts about counteroffers. Much of that guidance will be spot-on in your situation.

Submitted by Don Minter on Saturday November 15th, 2014 11:24 pm

If you have a good relationship, pay reasonably close to the prevailing wage, and there is room for advancement, then a subordinate looking for work should not be a problem. If any of the prerequisites mentioned above are not in place, then if you lose the subordinate, it is not really him looking for outside opportunities as much as you not providing said opportunities within the present environment.
The above having been said, if some other employer is willing to pay above the prevailing wage or promote your subordinate above where he could reasonably expect to be in your orgainization, then wish him well and mean it. He's most likely given you good work and value for your expended resources, which is why he's being given a better opportunity elsewhere. Also, keep him in your network and remember to "touch bases" with him every quarter or so.

Submitted by Nigel Johnston on Monday November 17th, 2014 4:10 am

Thanks both of you for the common sense. It's easy to get caught up in the moment and worry about what I might or might not have done wrong.
I've been a bit behind on the casts recently - I listened to the the counteroffer one (three!) yesterday and that definately helps.