The statewide turnover rate for fiscal year 1999 was 17.58 percent for full-time classified state employees. This rate continues a high turnover trend from last year, in which the turnover rate was 17.37 percent. Employee turnover costs to the State are significant.
Employee turnover continues to remain high in both the public and private sectors.
A good nationwide economy and significant industry trends, as in the information technology field, have contributed to employees making career changes. The Greater Austin area market also continues to have a strong economy and competition for talent. Since the largest number of employees work in the Austin area, the State increasingly must deal with the loss of experienced employees to the private sector. Research suggests that the best strategies to retain employees are strong programs in healthcare benefits, new employee orientation, open communication with employees, and salary increases. Generally, the lower the employees' salaries, the more likely they are to leave state employment.