HR CORNER
BUILDING A STRONG TEAM: WELCOMING AND KEEPING GREAT EMPLOYEES Natalie Bell, CWS
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n the fast-paced building materials industry, businesses often focus on the tangible—stocking the right products, managing logistics, and meeting customer needs. But there’s another crucial element that supports all these efforts: the people. Your employees are your greatest asset. Let’s explore how to bring new folks into your business and keep them around.
ROLLING OUT THE WELCOME MAT: MORE THAN JUST PAPERWORK Welcoming a new employee (what HR professionals call “onboarding”) isn’t just about forms and a quick tour. It’s a chance to make a great first impression and start building a relationship. Think of it like being a good host at a party—you want your guests to feel comfortable and know where everything is. Why does this matter? In an industry where safety and precision are crucial, a good welcome can help prevent costly mistakes and accidents. By taking the time to show new hires the ropes—from processes to safety rules and company values—you’re setting them up to succeed and protecting your business.
KEEPING YOUR A-TEAM: IT STARTS ON DAY ONE Keeping great employees around isn’t something to start thinking about when they hand in their notice. It begins the moment they walk through your doors. When people feel supported and part of the team from the get-go, they’re more likely to stick around for the long haul. Consider this: If someone understands their job, knows the company’s goals, and sees how they fit in, they’re much more likely to stay. But if they feel lost or disconnected? They might start looking for the exit pretty quickly.
YARDSTICK MAGAZINE
Fall 2024
23