Wouldn’t it be ideal if hiring for a new role was as easy as reaching out to a recruiter, getting their best candidates, and filling the position with the perfect person the very next day? Let’s face it, it’s not always that simple! The architecture, engineering, and construction industries in New Zealand have been experiencing skill shortages for several years, and with growth in construction activity and infrastructure development projects, this trend is expected to continue for years to come.
So, what can a business hiring in these industries do to combat these skill shortages? That’s exactly what our expert recruitment consultants sat down to discuss. Keep reading to discover effective strategies for retaining your current staff while making your business more appealing to new candidates.
- Highlight your company culture:
One of the most significant factors in attracting and retaining employees is having a positive company culture. Make the most of social media and your website to emphasize your company values, social events, and any charities/organisations you support. Share testimonials from current employees to demonstrate the company’s culture and how it positively impacts employees. Additionally, provide resources for mental health and wellness, such as wellness programs, counselling services, and access to fitness facilities. - Offer competitive compensation packages:
It may seem like an obvious one but money matters! Two prospective companies and one’s offering 20k more, which role would you take? Compensation packages that include a competitive salary, health benefits, equity shares, and bonuses are essential in attracting top talent. Be sure to revisit existing staff’s compensation packages on a semi-regular basis, remember it’s more expensive to replace staff who have resigned than it is to promote them. - It’s all about flexibility:
Many candidates are now looking for more than just a decent pay-check – they want to work for a company that values their personal life and wellbeing. By offering flexible schedules, remote/hybrid work options, or the ability to come and go when needed, companies can demonstrate their commitment to work-life balance and create a more attractive job opportunity. Additionally, offering flexible work arrangements can improve retention rates and boost employee morale, resulting in a more productive and engaged workforce. - Prioritise employee development:
Creating opportunities for employees to grow and advance within an organization is crucial for retaining top talent and building a strong team. Employers can provide various resources to support employees’ professional development, such as training programs, mentorship initiatives, and workshops to help them acquire new skills and knowledge. For example, in the architecture industry, employers can support graduates through the registration process, while in engineering, employers can encourage and support employees seeking CPEng certification. - Foster a diverse and inclusive workplace:
Building a healthy work environment means prioritizing diversity and inclusion. To achieve this, it’s important to ensure that your recruitment process is inclusive and open to all applicants, regardless of their background or identity. All employees should feel seen and valued, be sure to recognise and honour holidays from different cultures and traditions and offer diversity training for employees to help promote understanding and respect in the workplace. Be sure to promote this on your website and social media so potential employees can see the efforts being made within your company. - Promote a collaborative work environment:
Engineering, architecture, and construction are all industries in which teamwork and collaboration are essential for success. Encourage teamwork and collaboration by creating opportunities for cross-functional projects and team-building activities. Foster an open-door policy that encourages employees to share ideas and feedback. Provide opportunities for employees to socialize and build relationships outside of work through company-sponsored events and activities
Attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry requires a multi-faceted approach and is key to creating an appealing work environment. The good news is that you don’t have to do it all alone! Grada’s recruitment consultants are experts at finding the perfect candidates for your organization. Whether you’re looking to fill a key role or build a strong team, we’re here to help. Reach out today and let us find the top talent that will take your company to the next level.
Talk soon,
Grada
