USPS Encouraging Longer-Term Employment for New Hires – My MBA Career

Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: USPS Focuses on Improving Retention Rates Amidst Staffing Shortages

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has unveiled its 10-year reform plan, aiming to reduce turnover rates and address staffing shortages within its entry-level workforce. With the agency having made approximately 142,000 new hires this year, improving the retention of pre-career employees has emerged as a critical concern.

Recognizing the significance of retaining a skilled workforce, USPS is striving to cut pre-career employee turnover rates by half and enhance the overall employee experience. The agency is particularly focused on improving the employee journey for new hires, especially within the critical first 90 days.

Compounded by retirements and employees leaving for other job opportunities, USPS currently loses around 40,000 employees per year to attrition. A recent report from the USPS Office of Inspector General highlighted a notable increase in pre-career turnover rates in recent years, further exacerbating staffing shortages and resulting in regional mail delays.

To combat the challenge of attracting and retaining entry-level talent, especially among Millennials and Gen Z workers, USPS is taking several steps. Firstly, it seeks to streamline the hiring process and reduce the time candidates spend waiting to begin their new jobs. Additionally, USPS plans to introduce a more mobile-friendly hiring platform, catering to the preferences of younger applicants who rely on their smartphones for job-related searches.

Furthermore, USPS aims to provide a competitive salary and benefits package to retain career employees. By offering an enticing compensation package, the agency anticipates that more individuals will choose to build lasting careers within USPS, reducing the reliance on entry-level staff.

The recruitment and retention challenges faced by USPS are not unique to the agency, as other federal bodies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, are also grappling with similar issues. This highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to hiring and retaining talent, one that takes into account the changing dynamics of the job market.

As USPS moves forward with its 10-year plan and intensifies efforts to improve retention rates, the size of its workforce may undergo modification. Continued growth and success will determine the future makeup of the agency’s workforce.

In conclusion, USPS aims to curb the attrition of pre-career employees and resolve staffing shortages through its 10-year reform plan. By enhancing the employee experience, improving the hiring process, and offering competitive compensation, USPS strives to secure a skilled workforce and serve the public effectively amidst evolving market dynamics.