THE LANDING MATTRESS MODEL: STAFF RETENTION STRATEGY

Cassim Silumba, Noemi M. Abellanosa

Abstract


The Landing Mattress Model is a visual and practical framework used to cushion, absorb, and support the integration of the new employee into an organization that benefits all facets of organizational human capital. It is divided into four constructs that correspond to the High Jump Analogy. As such it entails one taking the first step of approaching the cross bar, that is, the run before the jump which is synonymous to the recruitment and pre-boarding processes. This is followed by takeoff, that is, the moment the athlete launches toward the bar which is also synonymous to the onboarding and first engagement processes. The third step is the bar clearance when the athlete attempts to cross over the bar- which is synonymous to the adaptation and performance processes, and finally, landing when the athlete falls and makes contact with the mattress which is also synonymous to organizational support and retention infrastructure. The Landing Mattress Model offers the opportunity for organizations and new hires to absorb the pressures through mentoring, meaning-making, moral and psychosocial support, work-life balance or versatility to change in order to enhance retention.


Keywords


turnover, adaptation, performance, engagement, organizational support, onboarding, recruitment, retention

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejhrms.v10i1.2169

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