Effective Recruitment and Retention Strategies for High-Performing Talent

Orellana Leon, Liliana Guadalupe (2025) Effective Recruitment and Retention Strategies for High-Performing Talent. Masters thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

Employee turnover is a significant challenge for organisations worldwide, with high costs in recruitment, training, and lost productivity. In Ireland, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face particular difficulties retaining high-performing employees due to limited resources and the absence of tailored retention strategies. This study examines the main factors contributing to turnover among high performers in Irish SMEs and explores best practices for recruitment and retention.

A mixed-methods approach was used, combining a review of existing literature with primary data collection. The research investigates the link between employee engagement and turnover, the specific expectations of high performers, and the constraints SMEs face in meeting these needs.

Findings highlight that high performers value career development, continuous learning, recognition, and flexibility. SMEs that implement personalised retention initiatives—such as mentorship programmes, performance-based rewards, and flexible working arrangements—can improve engagement and reduce turnover. The study offers practical recommendations to help Irish SMEs attract and retain top talent, strengthening both performance and long-term competitiveness.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Supervisors:	Name Email Hughes, Catriona UNSPECIFIED
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management > Human Resource Management > Employee Retention H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management > Human Resource Management H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management > Human Resource Management > Recruitment H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > Issues of Labour and Work > Talent Management
Divisions:	School of Business (- 2025) > Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
Depositing User:	Ciara O'Brien
Date Deposited:	08 Dec 2025 16:39
Last Modified:	08 Dec 2025 16:39
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/9018

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