News & Notes
Your Company’s Culture: Will it Survive the Coming Labour Shortage? Written by Ken Jenkins President, Castle Building Centres Group Ltd.
We all know there is a skills shortage, and we need to find a solution, quickly. Our aging population and declining birth rates are expected to create a shortfall of one million construction workers by 2020. Skilled trades are already the hardest employees to find and hire. This isn’t just a Canadian problem – it’s a global one. Employers are struggling to fill positions within any industry that requires engineers, management, technicians, IT staff, sales representatives, and even office support staff. Meeting the current and growing shortage in Canada will require a comprehensive strategy (involving governments at all levels, along with businesses and academia to address our future labour needs.) The Federal government is looking at policy changes to current retirement age proposals with the intent of retaining aging boomers. But, there are things you can do to improve your ability to attract experienced, qualified people. It starts with your Culture.
News & Notes
Today, company culture has become crucial in recruiting and retaining valuable employees. Money’s important, but, by itself, it can’t solve the challenge of motivating your employees so they aren’t easily poached by your competition. People are much more socially aware. Even the charities you corporately sponsor or support can influence how potential hires think of your culture. One aspect of culture not often discussed is “fit.” You want employees who fit naturally within the culture of your organization. Like any good relationship, goals and attitudes need to be aligned. That means even as you are seeking to find scarce talent, the people you hire must embrace your vision and values. Hiring people who aren’t the right fit within your organization is a short-term solution with long-term consequences. Create a culture of empowerment – promoting meaningful work, recognition and responsibility, which offers greater job satisfaction. Such a culture is the basis of building successful recruitment and retention for both large and small businesses.
CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE
MAY / JUNE 2017
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