However, despite this perceived excess, top talent is still hard to find, especially with factors such as JobKeeper at play. What’s more, once you’ve identified your best applicants, hiring and keeping these people within your company can be just as tricky.

In an open discussion with one of our people2people consultants in Queensland, the question was raised whether JobKeeker payments were an inhibitor to people actively seeking and accepting short term assignments, thus creating another competitor for employers in an already difficult market. Would people forfeit the opportunity to work when unemployment is rising faster than since the great depression? It turns out, yes.

A recent people2people survey of over 150 Australian job seekers showed 20% would opt to receive the JobKeeper pay in hand, rather than accepting a short-term three-month assignment. Why? We believe there are many factors involved, however slow hiring processes, company culture, and employer brand play pivotal roles.

Never has it been truer, business success relies on having exceptional people. In a world where money really is talking, how can you make your company more appealing than the government contribution or other competitors, so your current top performers don’t ‘jump ship’? Here’s how:

1) Start off by knowing potential new hires and top performers expectations:

• What learning and development opportunities are available?
• Is there a clear career pathway for them within the business?
• Will they be challenged in their role? Is there variety?
  

When your staff feels supported and cared for, there is a greater incentive for them to stay than just their monthly paycheck.

2) Company culture is another aspect your business should be focusing on.

It’s what inspires and motivates your employees to come to work each day and put their best foot forward. It is also what job applicants are looking for. Ask yourself:

• Are your manager’s good leaders who coach and mentor their team?
• How are you caring for your employees’ mental health during this time?
• Is there a sense of community amongst your employees?
  

These are just some of the things that could be contributing to a positive culture in your workplace. Get your company culture right, and the sense of loyalty and belonging that employees will feel in your business will encourage them to stay with you long-term and be an attraction magnet for future hires.