Companies work hard to recruit and hire the right candidate. But establishing clear employer and employee expectations is critical to keeping them.
While businesses often focus heavily on the hiring process, bringing in the right person is only the beginning. Equally important—if not more so—is providing the right tools and support so new hires can quickly become productive, feel like part of the team, and, most importantly, want to stay.
One of the most overlooked ways managers can retain employees is by setting clear and aligned expectations from the outset.
The Impact of Misaligned Employer and Employee Expectations
By the time a new employee starts, there should have been several opportunities to align job expectations. The manager likely outlined the job requirements in the description, discussed them in the interview, and reinforced them during onboarding. Yet research shows that a misalignment between employer and employee expectations is common.
According to a study by Workforce Institute, nearly 50% of employees say they have left a job because it didn’t meet their expectations. Another report by Gallup found that only 12% of employees feel their company does a great job onboarding new hires, which leaves room for misunderstandings and mismatches in expectations.
The Role of Company Size in Expectation Mismatches
Company size can often affect how well expectations are aligned. Larger companies, with multiple layers of management and operations across various locations, can struggle to maintain consistency in communication and expectations. Smaller businesses, on the other hand, may find it easier to personalize the experience and quickly course-correct when misalignment occurs.
A study by TinyPulse showed that 27% of employees in larger organizations report feeling disconnected from their company’s culture, compared to just 15% in smaller companies. This disconnect can lead to unclear or conflicting messages about roles and responsibilities.
Aligning Employer and Employee Expectations
When managers hire a candidate, they naturally hope the employee will thrive in the role. But once time, money, and resources have been invested, the last thing any company wants is to go through the process again. This is why aligning expectations is so important—it minimizes the risk of turnover and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Managers can build trust and improve retention by setting realistic expectations. While it’s tempting to focus only on the positive aspects of a role during the hiring process, discussing the challenges of the job is just as crucial.
Harvard Business Review found that employees who are given a realistic job preview are 30% less likely to leave within the first six months. This approach creates a more accurate picture of the role and builds a foundation of trust between employer and employee.
Common Sources of Misalignment
Sometimes, assumptions and vague language can lead to a disconnect. For example, the term "flexible work schedule" may mean different things to a manager and a candidate. It’s essential to clarify these expectations early on.
Another way to align expectations is through the use of SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-based). Setting clear, achievable goals ensures both the employee and employer are aligned on priorities, making it easier to track progress and address issues early on.
Continuous Communication Is Key
Maintaining alignment requires regular check-ins. Weekly or monthly reviews of the employee’s progress toward their goals can help address any potential misalignments before they become bigger issues.
According to a report by McKinsey, 43% of employees cited a lack of clear communication as the reason for leaving their jobs. Regular feedback loops and tools that encourage open communication allow employees to share what’s working and where they need more support. This keeps expectations aligned and builds stronger relationships between managers and their teams.
Mutual Responsibility for Alignment
It’s important to remember that aligning expectations is a two-way street. While employers need to create an environment that encourages transparency and open dialogue, employees also have a responsibility to express their ideas, concerns, and needs.
In a survey by Workplace Trends, 41% of employees said that unclear job expectations were a significant contributor to stress. Encouraging employees to speak up about their expectations ensures that both sides are on the same page and can collaborate more effectively.
Hiring Isn't Just a Transaction—It's a Partnership
When you’re hiring new employees, it’s not just about filling a role—it's about building a long-term partnership. While attracting top talent is crucial, being authentic and honest about what the job entails can prevent future disappointment.
Research from Glassdoor shows that 79% of job seekers are more likely to apply to a company that shows genuine commitment to building a positive work environment. This means setting the right expectations from the start will not only help you retain top talent but also attract candidates who are a better fit for your company.
Conclusion
Misaligned expectations between employers and employees can lead to frustration, disengagement, and, ultimately, high turnover. By setting clear, realistic expectations and maintaining open communication throughout an employee's journey, businesses can build a foundation of trust that leads to long-term success.
Remember, hiring a new employee isn’t just about filling a vacancy—it’s about creating a lasting, mutually beneficial relationship. With the right expectations in place, both employees and employers can thrive.
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