The labor market as a whole remains tight, with low unemployment and The Great Reshuffle making it tough for companies to attract and retain top talent. The manufacturing and distribution space also faces additional challenges, as “reshoring” – bringing manufacturing back to the United States – means a surge in open positions. With Baby Boomers retiring and many younger workers unsure about traditional career paths, this is a challenging environment for employers.

Fortunately, there are ways to recruit effectively in a tight labor market and keep your business fully staffed.

Upgrade Your Recruiting

With fewer candidates actively “seeking” jobs, and more workers “shuffling,” it’s critical to meet potential employees where they are. While traditional recruiting methods such as job boards are still important, you have to be creative and cast a wider net. This includes being active on social media, targeting specific skill sets, and recruiting constantly and consistently, not just when you have open jobs.

Market Yourself to Candidates

Use social media and other platforms to promote yourself as an employer, and to explain why people should want to work for you. You can create and post content highlighting corporate values, work-life balance, perks, etc. Tell your company’s story, and debunk any myths about work in your industry.

Retention is Key

Jobs in manufacturing and distribution pay well, but today’s workers are looking for more than just a paycheck. Add value to your positions by providing benefits such as training, career development, and flexible scheduling. Consider other flexible arrangements such as part-time or remote work, if feasible. And while you’re looking for employees to hire, other companies may be trying to recruit your existing talent away from you. Maintain a positive work environment, and be creative with retention incentive programs. Make sure your compensation and benefits are competitive. Conduct employee surveys and actively listen to feedback to identify areas for improvement.

Partner with Tech Schools

Forming partnerships with schools and vocational programs can provide an ongoing pipeline of young, talented workers who are eager to prove themselves. Consider providing internship or apprenticeship programs for students. Offer to help with curriculum development to ensure that students graduate with marketable skills.

Partner With a Staffing Firm

The best way to overcome a tight labor market includes comprehensive recruiting and retention programs, and consistent, unrelenting execution of them. That’s what Phillips Staffing has done for its clients for over 55 years. We work to help you find and hire the talent you need in Greenville and Upstate SC, allowing you to stay focused on your core business. Contact us today for more information on how we can help your company.