EMPLOYEES
With our vision that employees need to be empowered, respected, challenged and recognised for their contribution, our employer of choice model supports management’s objective of continuously improving the employer brand, developing talent, recognising performance and making HomeChoice a desired place to work.
Growing talent
A talent management framework was implemented in 2011 to recognise and grow our existing talent and drive the learning and development strategy. The annual review of the talent pool identifies top talent that delivers excellence and promotes company values and allows the implementation of development plans for current and future leaders who support the company vision.
Recognising employee’s contributions
Employee recognition and reward mechanisms include the annual Chairman’s Award, Innovation Award,
monthly recognition awards, attractive commission schemes and an annual bonus scheme – all of which motivate staff to constantly outperform. All awards are aligned to the company values, drive performance and recognise contribution to the success of the business.
Employee engagement
To improve staff engagement levels, the company regularly commissions
independent surveys to measure staff satisfaction and to assist in identifying
areas to promote employee engagement. An annual 'Pulse' survey is conducted to
gauge the company climate. A dedicated task team designs cultural interventions
and change initiatives where appropriate.
Workforce profile
The profile continues to diversify, with black employees accounting for 82% of the total employees. Significant progress has been achieved in improving diversity at senior and top management levels. We were a Top Female Empowered Company in Retail (Top Company 2010) finalist in 2010.
Staff attrition
The objective is to improve the level of staff turnover by embedding the employer of choice model and reviewing staff satisfaction levels, analysing exit interviews and promoting employee engagement through revised talent development initiatives.
HIV/AIDS awareness
An HIV awareness programme forms part of the employee well-being programme to provide access to confidential counselling and voluntary testing, and to promote an understanding of the nature of the disease. The HIV/AIDS policy aims to protect employees living with AIDS, create awareness, encourage behavioural changes and ensure employees are treated with dignity, fairness and equality.
Employee wellness
An employee wellness programme addresses both the physical and emotional well-being of employees. A wellness centre has been established at the head office and a nurse practitioner is hosted weekly. Wellness days are organised in conjunction with benefit providers to promote a healthy lifestyle among employees. HomeChoice Plus offers all employees funeral support, personal counselling, assault, trauma and HIV cover, and support for a range of issues such as stress, financial, legal, substance abuse and health care issues.
Employee benefits
Employees have a choice of medical funds. Membership of a defined contribution provident fund is compulsory, and benefits include group life and permanent disability insurance, while employees may take out loans of up to 50% of their retirement benefits for housing purposes.
Skills development
As an accredited training provider with the Wholesale and Retail SETA and accredited with the South African Board of Practitioners, several learning and development initiatives are available to employees, many of which are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework, allowing employees to gain formal credits when attending these programmes.