Guest Commentator: Debbie Martone, Director of Human Resources, AC Linen Supply, LLC

What tools or services can Middle Market companies use to engage potential talent?

Potential talent can be engaged in different ways, so when deciding what would be most appreciated by candidates, employers need to study their workforce. Companies can start by focusing on a few key areas: the kind of employees you wish to hire, the area your candidates will come from, and the kind of benefits that would make your company stand out from the crowd.

1. What specific type of candidates would be right for the position?

What kind of talent do you need? Will you need skilled or unskilled labor, or both? What kind of training will you need to complete in order to meet the needs of your organization? Professional trainers could be hired, or computerized learning could be used to offer classes in multiple languages to accommodate your teams. How many shifts will you offer? Will you need to schedule around customer needs? This may create the opportunity for multiple shifts. How long will each shift be? Employees who are working for long periods of time may need more than just a lunch break, so there may be a need for an extra break or rest period in the schedule.

2. Where will you attract your talent?

Will your employees need access to public transportation or will your company only be accessible by vehicle? Many people who live in larger cities prefer to use public transportation. If you are in an area that is not accessible to public transportation, it may be necessary to contact the regional bus/rail lines and ask about local bus routes. There may be an option to have a bus route added to meet your employees’ needs. If your employees will be driving to work, where will they park? Will you be able to hire part-time or per diem employees? College students make great part-time employees and you may be able to participate in local co-op or intern programs.

3. What makes your company stand out from other organizations?

Let’s face it, every company has the same kind of benefits to offer – medical benefits, 401K, laptop, cell phone, etc. But why would candidates seek your company out as an employer? This is where knowing your employee is crucial to your company. What do your employees or potential employees want? Incentive plans are always a positive approach and could include gift card giveaways, lunch/dinner meetings with the owner, weekly raffles or a bonus program. Many potential candidates are also looking for flexible schedules and work from home options. Opportunities for promotion will also show your employees that you are interested in growing their talent. It’s crucial to give your team the ability to further their learning. Tuition reimbursement for classes and certifications can be a powerful asset to your company. Employees like to know that you, as their employer, value their talent.

At the end of the day, employees want to be treated fairly and with respect. Not all tools and services will fit for each person.  Having a good grasp of your talent pool will help you decide what the best tools and services will be for your organization. Being able to find the best fit for your employees and your organization takes time and effort.  However, in the end it will benefit the company, and will help you find and keep great employees.

AC Linen is a member of the Chamber’s Middle Market Action Team, a consortium of leaders driving rapid growth in companies with annual revenues between $10M & $1B through targeted programs and strategies. #MidMarketPHL

Upcoming Middle Market Event

Talent Match: Recruiting for the Middle Market
Tuesday, April 17, 2018
8:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Mars Drinks Conference Center at the Chamber
For more information and to register: ChamberPHL.com/talentmatch2018.