Improving Realistic Job Previews to Increase New Hire Retention and Engagement

Retention of newly hired talent in organizations remains a critical concern, especially given the current labor market changes our economy is experiencing. Among the many strategies for increasing new hire retention and engagement, the realistic job preview (RJP) is often under-utilized – or even overlooked entirely. This project examined different types of RJP strategies that organizational development (OD) consultants can present to specific clients who seek to improve new employee retention. Relevant literature is examined and analyzed to understand the scope of this concern, common reasons new employees leave their positions, and the types of RJPs currently being utilized by organizations who have successfully addressed this problem. The literature review will also provide insight to realistic job previews, history and importance of employee retention, and the implications for future changes. Articles will be reviewed to explain the benefits and challenges of restructuring RJPs – and key strategies currently being utilized to improve them. Finally, the issue will be considered in the contexts of organizational culture and return on investment (ROI) with a focus on employee persuasion and attitude as well as reducing resistance to change. Based on the findings from the literature, recommendations will present a strategy for implementing new and improved RJPs, with the specific goal of setting new employees up for success, increasing their engagement early on, and reducing the likelihood of turnover. RJPs will be presented as a vital and effective tool for OD practitioners to utilize in effecting positive changes in new employee retention.