What does turnover refer to in human resources?

Turnover in human resources specifically refers to the percentage of employees who leave an organization over a designated period. This metric helps organizations assess their workforce stability and is crucial for understanding employee satisfaction, engagement, and overall retention strategies. High turnover rates can indicate potential problems within the workplace, such as poor management, inadequate job satisfaction, or lack of growth opportunities for employees.

By calculating turnover, companies can identify trends, compare their performance against industry benchmarks, and implement changes to enhance employee retention. Monitoring turnover is essential for effective workforce planning and maintaining morale among remaining staff. Understanding this concept enables HR professionals to develop targeted strategies for reducing turnover and fostering a more stable workforce.