Experienced and trained staff in the luxury accommodation industry is a vital factor in maintaining the quality and standard of premier game lodges. With a large pool of competitors, skills shortage is often a very real problem in this industry and strategies that attract and keep key staff are crucial.
"A share scheme goes further than just the retention of our valued employees - it serves to foster the feeling of a family where the success of the business can be shared and appreciated by all who contribute to its success," says Carlos Dos Santos, director of Inyati Private Game Lodge.
"Providing employees with a stake in the business not only improves their sense of belonging and value, but also instils the feeling that the better they assist the business in performing, the more value they'll see in returns through the worth of their investment."
"We have issued phantom shares with a base value of more than R3,6 million to all of our staff members, and although there are several taxation and accounting issues to consider, we believe the benefits of the decision are well worth the complexity involved in its implementation," says Dos Santos.
George Hlongwane, head ranger for Inyati says: "The response has been overwhelming. Our staff are incredibly happy and appreciative of the programme. Once the figures and concept had been explained it was met with a huge amount of enthusiasm. Generally staff feel that they haven't seen any employer do anything like this before and they're honestly grateful for the show of belief and acceptance shown through the gesture. The positive spin-off of the scheme has been immediate, with staff feeling more valued and taking a personal interest in their positions".
Lodge managers Keith and Francis Jenkinson agree: "One of the biggest changes is that staff have taken ownership of the lodge and their positions, and as a result they are working better with equipment and saving on costs. The increased camaraderie that the programme fosters has made it easier to manage staff who, as individuals, are part owners in the business."
"It's too early to gauge the results from the implementation of the programme, however, staff involvement and excitement about the move has been tremendous. Their response has made us realise just what a good decision this was, and we're looking forward to the positive impact the programme will have not only on business, but on the lives of our employees as well," concludes Dos Santos.
