​Loyalty in employees can be challenging to measure directly, as it often stems from personal values, workplace culture, and individual job satisfaction. However, there are several signs and behaviours that suggest an employee is loyal to their role and the company:

Key Indicators of Employee Loyalty

Consistency in Performance

Loyal employees consistently deliver high-quality work, demonstrating a genuine commitment to their role. They often exceed expectations and show reliability in meeting deadlines and goals.

Proactive Engagement

They actively participate in discussions, offer suggestions for improvement, and take initiative to address challenges. Loyal employees often go beyond their job description to contribute to the organisation’s success.

Advocacy for the Organisation

Loyal employees speak positively about the company both internally and externally. They recommend the organisation as a great place to work and are willing to promote its services or values to others.

Long-Term Thinking

They express interest in long-term growth within the company, including career development opportunities and succession planning. They are less likely to treat the role as a mere stepping stone.

Support for Team and Culture

They demonstrate a willingness to support colleagues, mentor newer team members, and contribute to maintaining a positive work environment. Loyal employees value and help sustain the organisational culture.

Discretion and Confidentiality

They show respect for company policies, handle sensitive information responsibly, and act as trustworthy stewards of the organisation’s interests.

Resilience During Challenges

Loyal employees stick with the company during tough times, such as restructuring or economic downturns, and work towards finding solutions rather than jumping ship at the first sign of trouble.

Open Communication

They communicate concerns constructively and work towards resolutions rather than harbouring resentment. This behaviour often signifies a deep investment in the organisation's success.

Ways to Assess Loyalty

Observation Over Time

Look at their track record of commitment to projects, team dynamics, and problem-solving during periods of stress or uncertainty.

Regular Feedback

Engage in open, two-way discussions during performance reviews or informal check-ins. Ask questions about their satisfaction, goals, and alignment with the company’s mission.

Retention Trends

Observe how long they stay in roles, their reasons for previous moves, and their willingness to take on long-term projects.

Behaviour in Opportunities

Loyalty can be tested when opportunities for competing roles arise. Observe their level of transparency if approached by another company or their motivation to negotiate their needs with you rather than leave.

Cultural Fit

Employees who align with the organisation's values are more likely to show loyalty. Assess how well their personal values align with the company ethos.

​Fostering Loyalty

To cultivate loyalty, organisations must also demonstrate commitment to their employees by:

• Providing growth and development opportunities.

• Offering fair compensation and recognition.

• Ensuring a positive, respectful workplace culture.

• Communicating transparently and inclusively.

• Supporting employees' personal and professional well-being.

Loyalty is a two-way street; fostering it often begins with the company showing genuine care and integrity.