The chore of recruiting hourly workers is fraught with challenges. While there never seems to be a shortage of people in search of hourly jobs, finding enough quality workers to staff the frontline can be difficult. Even if someone impresses you long enough to get the nod, they may not deliver the goods once they are on your payroll. And those who are good workers always have a plethora of opportunities, leading them to keep one eye out for greener pastures. As a result, turnover among hourly workers remains quite high. Historically, hourly employee turnover rates average 70 to 120 percent per year in most industries. That leads to unsustainable recruiting and training costs.
It stands to reason that the goal must be to hire the right people in the first place. As we’ve already discussed, it’s not easy. But it can be done. It just requires a creative approach to recruitment.
The first thing you must realize is that the majority of talented workers will not show up on your doorstep. Nor will they answer your ad. That’s because they are already working. Your job is to find them where they are and demonstrate why they would be better off working for you.
So just where do you find this quality talent? According to a 2008 survey of over 500 hiring managers, in industries as diverse as food service, manufacturing, restaurants, petroleum marketers, hospitality, home services, and agriculture by Humetrics, referrals remain the best source for new hourly employee recruits, cited by 55 percent of respondents.
Studies have shown that employee-referred candidates are three times more likely to be a good match for a job. That’s because your employees give their friends detailed, accurate information about the job responsibilities and working conditions. Because they are a good fit, once hired, they tend to stick around longer. It’s a good idea to implement an employee-referral program and promote it heavily. Make employees aware that you are looking to hire and are interested to hear who they have in mind. Post signs in the break room and around your facility. Don’t forget to reward those employees whose referrals lead to a new hire.
Your customers are another good source for quality hourly employees. They are already fond of your company, after all, and may be interested in joining your team. Wherever possible, communicate job opportunities to your customers. Place signs on the counter; hand out flyers; and utilize bag stuffers. If it fits into your corporate culture, have your current employees wear badges that read, “Ask Me About This Great Place to Work”.
Before you know it, you just may find yourself with an abundance of quality candidates who are eager to work for you.
For assistance with all your staffing needs, contact High Profile Staffing today.