Sometimes, employees don't leave because they are lazy or unserious. They leave because the job they were promised is completely different from the reality they meet.
I once experienced something that taught me this lesson
A client once reached out to me to source a Personal Assistant for her foodstuff business.
She told me she was getting a store, hiring other staff, and providing accommodation for the candidate.
I referred candidates, and she eventually selected one.
About a month later, she called me and complained that the candidate had left without giving a reason. 🤷♀️
I decided to contact the candidate to understand what had happened.
Her story was completely different.
According to her, the store had never been rented, no other staff had been hired, and she was the only person working.
She was staying in a boys' quarters and was sent to the market whenever customers needed something.
The workload became overwhelming, she started falling sick, and the situation began affecting her health.
Eventually, she had to leave.
And honestly, I understood her decision.
Imagine accepting a job based on the promise of a structured business with other staff members and accommodation, only to discover that the reality is completely different.
That is not what you signed up for.
Employers, please be careful about the promises you make during recruitment.
If you tell a candidate that accommodation will be provided, make sure you can provide it.
If you promise a structured workplace with other staff members, be honest about what is already in place and what is still being planned.
If the role involves responsibilities beyond what was discussed, communicate them before the person resumes.
People make career decisions based on the information you give them. Some relocate, turn down other offers, or leave existing jobs because they believe your promises.
When the reality is different, you risk losing a good employee and restarting the entire hiring process.
You cannot promise someone one thing during recruitment and expect them to accept something completely different after resuming.
Honesty during recruitment is not just about attracting candidates. It is about giving them a fair understanding of the job they are accepting.
