The past year for most industries has undoubtedly been a roller coaster when it comes to hiring, and the print and packaging industry is feeling the pinch. Things are sure to get a bit hairier as we enter the coveted holiday season.
Talent is scarce due to many factors, including workers switching industries, moving away, or just staying home because they are concerned for their health or that of a loved one or may have childcare responsibilities. How can your company stay competitive with others when the demand for skilled talent is high? Let’s take a look.
PAY MORE, GET MORE
Many workers have left their traditional industries and have been lured away by the promise of better pay. Amazon, Costco, and Target may have led the way with pay increases. At Semper, we see the trend infiltrate smaller companies as well to meet the demand.
BETTER BENEFITS
Significant pay increases may not be in the cards for your company, but there are other ways to attract candidates. Offering more substantial benefit packages for individuals and families goes a long way toward mitigating worries. Other benefits that attract potential employees include transportation and childcare subsidies, flexible scheduling options, and tuition reimbursement.
INCENTIVIZE
Signing bonuses and incremental increases are another great way to capture a potential candidate’s attention in a competitive market. If you’re worried about someone ditching after you’ve invested in their training once they have received their hiring bonus, consider paying after a trial period or splitting the amount over time. Another way to help retain employees and keep them from leaving for greener pastures is hourly increases at 90 or 180 days. The longer they are there, the more their pay goes up.
ON-DEMAND HELP
Perhaps your needs are just temporary at the moment. There are certainly options out there for companies who need on-demand help to get them through a large project or seasonal fluxes. Working with a staffing company like Semper Workforce Solutions can help fill in the gaps. Personnel is key to keeping your business up and running without slowing down the production floor during busy times.
PLAN AHEAD
Make an investment in your existing workforce. Create a pipeline of success that allows staff to move up with further education, training, and skills development. Offer incentives for training to grow retention numbers and build loyalty. Fill upper-level positions by moving existing staff up and then replenish with a new batch of trainable workers.
The hiring climate is constantly changing, but the experts at Semper Workforce Solutions have their pulse on the printing and packaging industries. You can trust us to advise you in the right direction and help provide qualified on-demand, temp-to-hire, or direct staff when you need it.