Highlighting a workforce tactic based on expert guidance from SHRM HR leader Gloria Sinclair Miller, a previous Dealer Week educator

Morgan Wallen put out a hit country song in 2021 titled “Bandaid on a Bullet Hole.” Essentially, his song croons about a failed relationship and the many ways he (or people in general) try to fix their critical problem with quick or temporary solutions. In your world, an example would be your marine tech duct taping a busted prop on an outboard motor, hoping it will save your customer’s fishing weekend. It’s not a sound decision even if it would provide a very short-lived “fix.”

The marine industry and dealerships have struggled with workforce pain for years. The good ones — those who excel at employee retention and building workplace culture — know it takes real effort, NOT an adhesive bandage. Half-hearted efforts lead to half-hearted results.

Moreover, failed fixes can amplify burnout and erode trust, leaving your team discouraged and seeking greener grass elsewhere. That’s why you need proven tactics that help your team stay committed (loyal), productive and delighted to perform. Their satisfaction directly effects your company culture and customer experience. By taking a proactive stance to engage them, you will not only enhance their creativity and innovation, but also boost retention.

Here’s a tactic to consider adding to your dealership’s employee connection efforts.

Run Quarterly Stay Interviews + Pulse Checks

Stay interviews aren’t done to try to keep an employee who is set on leaving. No, according to Gloria Sinclair Miller of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) they are done quarterly to engage, build trust and bring to the surface issues that create pain for your employees.

It’s wise to schedule short 20-minute check-ins with every team member each quarter to capture their pulse. You seek to grasp their current state of happiness and to record genuine feedback. Additionally, do so without blame or condemnation. Listen intently and take action. Gloria calls it “knowing your talent.” Futhermore, through this level of frequent communication, you can do that WITH buy-in.

Take Action and Engage

Watch Gloria Sinclair Miller’s complete course “Rethink How to Engage and Hold on to Your Employees” on MRAATraining.com, where you will unlock more expert insights and workforce guides you can roll out as part of your 2026 plan.

Can’t access the course but want to? Reach out to the MRAA Membership team.