TONYA HAVAS
BRITISH COLUMBIA – Identifying retention problems has never been more important to stay competitive. In Part II of our employee interview series, we’re interviewing Marketing Specialist Tonya Havas to find out why she’s about to celebrate her 25th anniversary with Coastal Community Credit Union in October.
- Why have you stayed with CCCU all these years?
TH: I love that Coastal Community feels like a family, and I believe that our leadership has the best interests of employees at heart. Most of all, I appreciate that the credit union recognized a natural ability and helped me grow and develop my skills, allowing me to reach my current position of Marketing Specialist.
- Why should a company invest in retaining good employees?
TH: Good long-term employees bring a lot of value to an organization. The corporate knowledge and perspective you gain year after year provides insight that new employees may not have.
- What are the key things a company can do to build and retain loyalty?
TH: Treating your employees with care and understanding and being flexible when employees need it go a long way to building loyalty. Offering career mobility, continuing education and a good work/life balance are also good reasons for employees to stay.
- What are the dealbreakers that could make you look elsewhere?
TH: I’d say the usual kind of things. I want a competitive salary and benefits, as well as reasonable hours. And I want to enjoy what I do and the people I work with. A positive and supportive workplace culture and good team dynamics are pretty high on my list of must-haves.
- On that note, what are the most important skills a manager needs to effectively lead?
TH: I think respectful effective communication is key—and building a feeling of connection with and among your team (spoken as a remote worker).
Tonya Havas is a Marketing Specialist with Coastal Community. For career opportunities, visit cccu.ca/about/careers. Coastal Community made the list for Best Workplaces in Financial Services and Insurance in Canada, and was recognized among the Best Workplaces in British Columbia, as determined by Great Place to Work®
