Finding a great manufacturing employee to fill a position is becoming increasingly more challenging. Part of this has to do with the skills gap found in younger generations. This does not refer to the gap in skills regarding the actual work that your employees must perform, but more general skills that are useful for any production worker.

Hire Employees Based On Attitude

Many employers believe that they need to hire employees who already have the skills that are necessary to perform on the job. But there are much more important qualifications that an employee can bring to the table, such as having a great attitude. For example, an employee who cares about constantly improving himself or herself will be a much greater asset.

Consider Hiring Employees From Other Industries

Don't assume that a candidate should necessarily have experience from the same industry that he or she is going to be working in now. An employee who comes from a different industry may be able to provide a fresh perspective. Also, you will not be hiring someone who is coming from your competitor and may be unwilling to put as much effort into competing with a past employer. You may consider using the help of recruiting professionals, like those found at Molding Business Services, to help you find the right candidate for the job.

Create The Right Culture

Invest in creating a culture that candidates will want to be a part of. Employees need to have a sense that they will have an opportunity to grow and need to understand their options for career growth. Even if your employee is an expert in performing a particular job, make sure to cross-train your employee so that he or she has room for growth.

Promote STEM Initiatives

In some cases, it may be necessary to train your employees before they even leave school. This can be accomplished by encouraging and funding STEM initiatives at the middle school and high school levels. By getting students to think about science and technology at an early age, they will already be ready to be modern production workers. This will also be great PR for your firm as you give back to the community. When you’re screening candidates, consider asking what experience or education they have in STEM initiatives.

In the end, hiring for any company or profession can be hard and stressful. Use the tips discussed to help ease the stresses associated with hiring.