In this year’s first quarter Manufacturer’s Outlook Survey, the National Association for Manufacturers (NAM) reported that manufacturing companies are still struggling with workforce shortages.
“Companies cite difficulties in finding sufficient workers to meet their capacity needs, despite wage growth for production and nonsupervisory workers in manufacturing that has been at a 40-year high. At the same time, manufacturers have had around 800,000 job openings or more—a very elevated rate—for 10 straight months,” according to the report’s summary.
To entice candidates, 93% of the companies surveyed said they’ve increased wages and benefits. More than 66% have also incorporated flexible work schedules, yet they’re still unable to fill vacant roles.
If you’re having trouble finding qualified candidates it might seem logical to turn to your Human Resources department for help. However, workforce challenges aren’t just an HR issue. It’s beneficial to look around your company and consider the following:
- Does your work environment represent the quality of your products and services? For example, when candidates come in for an interview do they see chaos and a stack of dirty dishes in the breakroom?
- Have you considered how your marketing impacts your ability to recruit new employees? Does your company’s brand/image reflect a workplace that is friendly, diverse, and accepting?
- Does your benefits package attract the right candidates? What worked 30 years ago doesn’t necessarily work today.
- Are you optimizing strategic tax credit and deduction programs? Doing so can provide your company with more resources to invest in new employees.
If you answered “no” to any of these questions, Connecticut Manufacturers Resource Group (a subsidiary of Web Savvy Merketers) is here to help. We can help you resolve one issue, or several. If you’re not sure where you need help, we’ll conduct a Needs Assessment to provide the answers. Contact us to learn more.