Tips and tricks for finding and keeping your employees

With labor issues at the forefront of industry struggles, Kent Kohn, a consultant with Pro-Motion Consulting, offered tips and tricks for finding new workers and retaining the ones you have.

While hiring and retention may have some green industry professionals feeling hopeless, Kohn said it’s important to take on a positive outlook.

“This problem really isn’t going to get better,” he said. “You need to anticipate that it will only get worse, but keep your outlook positive.”

When reaching out to those looking for a job, many companies overlook the obvious things they could be doing.

“I’m amazed at some of these business right off the highway,” Kohn said. “They need workers but they don’t have a help wanted sign outside.”

Millennials make up a large portion of the workforce, so marketing in the right ways will help draw them to your company. Kohn suggested hosting job fairs with other businesses (that aren’t your competitor) in the area.

Offering referral bonuses to your current workers will not only keep them happy, but it will also draw more employees in.

When it comes to retention, long term goals are key. Kohn said it is vital to create a culture that your workers are happy to be in. Offering small perks like gift cards for an exceptional job or even an envelope with $20 can go a long way.

Getting to know your employees on a more personal level will make them feel appreciated. Kohn suggested hiring a life coach for a monthly meeting with your employees.

“Share the successes with your workers,” he said. “Create a recognition board.”

Kohn adds that customer “thank you’s” or comments should also be shared with the team.

“(Owners) might be sitting at a desk for most of the day,” he said. “But it’s the job your workers did that got you that customer comment.”