Recruiting Skilled Labor

Posted on 03/03 by Erin Helms

Everyone is trying to hire skilled labor. So, as you scramble to hire top talent, remember that a simple tweak to your recruiting strategy might be the thing to attract these highly-coveted employees. Carelessly posting job openings on career sites and job boards is no longer enough. You must take an intentional approach using proven tactics to recruit skilled labor.

Labor Misconceptions

Misconceptions are hurting the number of new employees entering the workforce. False beliefs regarding industry salaries, job security, career advancement, and the constant threat of automation are driving these misunderstandings.

Target the Younger Demographic

Are you seeing job interest among local students in your area? If young people express interest, this is an excellent opportunity to create job opportunities such as part-time shifts as an apprentice. Even workers as young as 14 can perform non-hazardous jobs for limited weekly hours. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for students to explore careers while earning a wage and continuing their education. The ROI is incredible too. The Department of Labor estimates that for each $1.00 spent on apprenticeships, employers get back $1.47.

Job Fairs

Does your company maintain a regular presence at job fairs? If not, look at the U.S. and sign up for several job fairs. Yes, job fairs can indeed be overwhelming for both job seekers and hiring managers. The key is to find a way to stand out at these events. When you consider that 70% of junior-level workers prefer face-to-face networking over online and that an in-person request is much more effective than an email, you begin to understand the significance of job fair attendance.

Ignore Gender Stereotypes

To build a workforce, you must be willing to depart from traditional applicant profiles as you staff projects. Construction is a historically male-dominated field. Currently, women make up 10.9% of the industry. To attract these skilled female candidates, you must demonstrate that you can adapt. Remember that women are at higher risk for injury on worksites due to ill-fitting safety equipment. If you can prove that women at your worksites are safe from hazards, you will be an attractive career spot for skilled workers regardless of gender.

Offer a Second Chance

Consider expanding your job search to include formerly incarcerated candidates. You will widen the applicant pool and bring in more skilled workers. Are you concerned about safety? Multiple studies show that formerly incarcerated people who find work are unlikely to become repeat offenders. Better still, there are tax credits and employer insurance programs available to those companies who hire certain marginalized groups.

Add Flexibility to Your Workforce

LaborMAX provides a range of high-quality, temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire staffing for your unique staffing needs. Request an employee today!

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