Are star employees overrated?

The war for talent in Kenyan companies is increasingly getting nasty.

This is aptly captured in the media industry. I’m using the media industry as an example since those who work in the media are the most visible to the public. Take the wayCitizen TV poaches star TV presenters from NTV, KTN, KBCand other competing media houses. The employees are attracted by among other things the salary, the working conditions and the chance for career progression. However, all said and done, it is the salary that acts as the chief determinant to many employees switch of jobs. Now, how do the rest of the employees who were there previously feel when a new co worker and she is suddenly commanding a salary that is beyond imagination. Will this breed n fighting and untrustworthiness among the workforce?

In a department, would you rather have one star employee than 20 average workers? How much is the impact of a star programmer or accountant or journalist to the revenue base of the company. Let’s take the case of Kiss FM for example. According to a recent survey by Consumer Insight Africa, Caroline Mutoko is the most listened to radio presenter. And in a way, though one might not agree with her brush style of presenting, she definitely helps bring mega bucks to the Radio Africa stable, the parent company of Kiss FM. Her emotional connection to the brands that she does promote on her morning program makes many a marketing client want to sign up. However, what if she suddenly leaves Kiss 100, will the business model of Kiss survive. How then does a human resources department balance between having a star employee and ensuring that there is continuity even after a star employee exits. And believe me; a star worker will most times leave when the competitor offers tones of money. If you were not prepared as an employer, this may makes the whole business to be very vulnerable.

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