A combination of changing technology and a shifting workforce can lead to skill gaps in a low of workplaces. Some of the most impacted business are those operating in the industrial sector, like manufacturing and warehousing companies. As older worker retire, they take with them a career’s worth of knowledge in the field. The younger generations often overlook the industrial sector, making it more challenging to find interested candidates.
With the hiring difficulty comes advancing technology. Automated and computer-assisted process have become more commonplace. While modernizing a facility can make operations more efficient, that is only the case if you have the employees needed to keep everything running smoothly.
Regardless of the source, a skill gap can be devastating to a business’ productivity. To keep your organization on track, here are some tips to help you manage the situation more effectively.
Identify Gaps
Many skill gaps are only recognized when a problem occurs. Changing production rates or total outputs can be a sign of an issue especially if you have a newly vacant position. As soon as you suspect a skills gap is to blame, gather every member of the team to find the source. In some cases, additional training can remedy the issue fairly quickly. It may also indicate the skills you should focus on finding new job candidates.
You don’t have to wait for a bad situation to prevent issues in the future. Consider implementing employee training programs and cross-training policies. If every position is covered by a few more employees who can grab the reins when needed, changes in staffing won’t have lasting harmful results.
Mentors for Legacy Skills
When concerns about losing the knowledge of seasoned employees arise, consider creating a mentorship program. Allow older workers to interact with younger employees to impart their industry knowledge on members of the newer working generations before their departure. Younger employees can also work with those who aren’t as comfortable with the technological changes in the business and help make the learning of new skills more accessible.
Prepare for Change
If you plan on implementing a new system, aim to train employees before the system is fully live. Giving your workers a chance to learn essential skills regarding the operation of new equipment before it becomes a full job duty can make the transition less intimidating. It will also identify which employees are sufficiently prepared to begin and who may need more training.
Many equipment manufacturers offer training opportunities, including web-based classes. Consider allocating time to ensure workers have a chance to learn the information during their standard workday. That way, everyone will have an opportunity to learn without having to sacrifice personal time.
Target Hard-to-Find Skills When Hiring
If a particular skill set is a rarity in your area, make sure your hiring efforts appropriately target candidates with those capabilities. This is especially true of any skills that have a steep learning curve or limited training options in your location. Not only will this allow them to quickly integrate into the new position, but they can also teach team members what they know.
For times when finding the right candidates is a challenge, TempStaff is here to help. Let their experience work for you by contacting TempStaff today.