Recruitment and Retention Post Pandemic

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Town Hall Overview:

Recruiting and retaining employees has become increasingly complex over the past two years. The rise of remote work, hybrid models, freelancing, and part-time opportunities has created staffing challenges for businesses across industries. Companies are now faced with the task of reevaluating their strategies to attract and retain talent in this shifting landscape. In this blog post, we will explore some of the changes and strategies that organizations can embrace to meet the demands of the new generation in the workforce.

Understanding the New Generation: The younger generation values work-life balance and seeks opportunities that offer flexibility. According to a 2021 study, two-thirds of U.S. employers struggle to find an experienced workforce. As the traditional approach to recruitment and retention no longer suffices, it is crucial for companies to develop a comprehensive strategy that aligns with the needs of today’s workforce.

A Shift in Perspective: Dina Kirk, administrative director of occupational medicine and outpatient rehab services at Southern Illinois Health, brings a fresh perspective to the table. In a recent article, she emphasizes the importance of looking beyond traditional metrics like work history. Dina explains that the younger generation tends to switch jobs more frequently, constantly seeking the next best opportunity. This change challenges our traditional mindset and requires us to embrace a more flexible approach in recruitment.

Adapting Recruitment Strategies: To overcome the challenges posed by the changing workforce, organizations need to think outside the box. Dina shares some of the strategies she has implemented at Southern Illinois Health. One of the key approaches is participating in job fairs and reaching out to local schools, not just at the high school level, but even at the junior high level. This proactive engagement allows young students to explore various healthcare career options and make informed decisions about their future educational path.

Exploring New Partnerships: In addition to job fairs and school outreach, organizations can also consider forming partnerships with training schools and technical institutes. By offering training opportunities or internships within their facilities, businesses can establish a rapport with potential candidates early on. This approach enables both parties to assess one another, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.

Supporting Trade Schools: While college athletes often receive recognition on national signing day, there is a need to celebrate and support students pursuing trade school education. Some companies are already stepping up by reaching out to aspiring electricians, carpenters, and other trade professionals. By highlighting the value and opportunities available in the skilled trades, organizations can tap into a talent pool that is often overlooked.

The dynamics of recruitment and retention are evolving, requiring businesses to adapt and embrace change. To attract and retain talent in this new generation, companies must shift their focus towards providing work-life balance and flexibility. By actively engaging with schools, exploring partnerships with training institutions, and supporting trade schools, organizations can proactively meet the needs and aspirations of the future workforce. It’s time to reimagine recruitment strategies and create a workplace that fosters growth, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging for all employees.