As a recruiter, it can already be challenging to attract and retain top talent in the industry. What about when you need to consider the trends and shifts in today’s manufacturing landscape? Read on to see how to stay ahead of your competitors.
Amidst the influx of emerging talent trends, the key is to understand the trends and adapt them into your own hiring practices. To help your company, this article offers you both valuable knowledge and tips you can use to stay ahead in recruitment.
New Demands for Specific Skills
There are many emerging talent trends in manufacturing. The most prominent ones are related to the industry’s demands for specific skills. Currently, companies and organizations are looking for employees with updated skills that match today’s manufacturing landscape.
As a recruiter, the following are some of the most significant demands you should familiarize yourself with:
1. Rise of Digital Literacy and Technological Proficiency
The manufacturing industry is currently experiencing a significant change related to digital technologies. For example, smart tools like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) are being introduced to existing operations. Because of this, the need for digitally literate employees surged in the manufacturing landscape.
Workers today need to be more comfortable navigating digital interfaces. They need to be skilled in understanding enhanced workflows and using different types of software.
To be successful in this new trend, anticipate the constant role of technology in manufacturing. This is why it’s necessary to find people proficient in the technological tools required for the job.
2. Awareness of Cybersecurity Practices
Among the new trends in manufacturing, one of the most prominent involves the digitization of operational processes. For example, companies take advantage of virtual replicas called digital twins in order to simulate processes and optimize operations. They also use smart inventory management by utilizing IIoT sensors to keep accurate and real-time inventory records.
Although digitization brings many benefits, it has also raised critical concerns regarding the cybersecurity of manufacturing data. Since systems are replicated on digital platforms, they are more prone to cyber threats. This explains the rising trend related to cybersecurity awareness and practices.
Employees at all levels of your organization need to have a basic understanding of your cybersecurity practices. All staff can be trained in protocols that protect sensitive data and prevent potential breaches. This can be done with simple password management and proper precautions regarding questionable links or emails.
3. Specialized Technical Skills
New technologies and innovations are entering the manufacturing landscape. In line with this, companies need employees with specialized technical skills. These employees can help organizations navigate today’s tech-driven landscape.
For example, additive manufacturing or 3D printing is a process used to produce complex and customized components. It’s also used for faster prototyping to ensure successful products. 3D printing allows a business to produce lightweight structures and efficient manufacturing solutions. Because of this, some organizations are looking for skilled workers who can navigate 3D printing technology.
Another example is the use of artificial intelligence and robotics. This trend relies heavily on intelligent algorithms and machines to perform tasks such as assembly and inspection. Employees who were working before the age of AI may fear this change. To avoid this, training can be provided for those new to AI. On another note, it may be necessary to hire professionals skilled in programming, managing, and maintaining AI systems. They can significantly help your business increase output, minimize downtime, and adapt to the latest tech advancements.
The Impact of Automation on Employment
As automation continues to impact operations, it also brings changes to manufacturing jobs. It might be helpful for recruiters to take note of the following are automation trends related to workforce and employment:
1. Change in Roles and Responsibilities
Automation is transforming the manufacturing landscape. This includes existing roles and responsibilities of employees. Many companies are now using automated systems to create their product.
Staff used to perform production tasks themselves. Now, their responsibilities may include maintaining, overseeing, and programming the machinery used. This change in tasks also involves a change in job titles to accurately reflect their new roles.
2. Required Upskilling and Reskilling
Along with a change in roles, workers now need to update their skills and capabilities. To better handle automated tasks, it would be best if employees undergo upskilling or reskilling programs. This ensures that their skills remain relevant in their new roles and environments.
To address this trend, employers are encouraged to invest in training programs that teach their people how to operate and maintain new tech tools. By doing so, they’re not only equipping their business with the workforce it needs, but they’re also saving money by prioritizing retention efforts over recruitment searches.
3. Harmony between Humans and Machines
Manufacturing companies that focus entirely on traditional methods will find it difficult to stay relevant in today’s manufacturing sector. Meanwhile, businesses that overtly prioritize machines over the well-being of their people are more likely to experience supply chain disruptions and low retention rates.
What does this mean? It suggests the importance of striking a balance between your people and your machines. Achieving harmony is necessary to maximize your manufacturing efficiency and success. It can also contribute to your brand, which can help you attract skilled manufacturing talent.
The Value of Diversity and Inclusion in Recruitment
As a manufacturing institute, there is a need to fill the skills gap with high-quality employees. Beyond their expertise, there is pressure for you to build your manufacturing workforce with diverse individuals.
Through valuing diversity and inclusion in your recruitment efforts, you’re giving your company the capacity to enjoy the following benefits:
1. Enhanced Creativity and Innovation
A diverse team can bring together a variety of experiences and perspectives. This can enhance the creative problem-solving and innovative thinking capabilities of your teams. It can also lead to new ideas and approaches, generating improvements in your manufacturing processes.
2. Broader Talent Pool
When you embrace diversity and inclusion, you’re given access to a wider range of skills and experiences available in the talent market. This expanded pool of talent can make it easier for you to combat labor shortages and fill the skill gaps within your organization.
3. Greater Employee Satisfaction and Retention
Employees feel more fulfilled in an environment that includes a diverse range of professionals. Inclusivity can also contribute to having employees stay longer in your company. Employees who feel comfortable in their working environment are more likely to be loyal and productive. Companies that prioritized diversity and inclusion experienced 69 percent improved employee retention rates¹ and 32 percent increased productivity levels².
MASTER TRENDS AND BUILD YOUR WORKFORCE WITH SKILLED TALENT
In search of talented professionals who can help you stay ahead of the competition? We at Horizon America have a readily available talent pipeline. Here, you can find the best candidates equipped with the skills you’re looking for.
We believe in the power of connection. With us, you’ll find high-quality temporary and temp-to-hire staffing solutions. Improve your business productivity and master today’s trends by building a skilled workforce with us!
References
- Douglas, Emily. “7 in 10 Millennials Offer Loyalty in Exchange for Diverse Workforce.” Human Resources Director, 15 Mar. 2023, www.hcamag.com/ca/specialization/diversity-inclusion/7-in-10-millennials-offer-loyalty-in-exchange-for-diverse-workforce/439585.
- Turner, Lauren, and Maya Fischhoff. “How Diversity Increases Productivity.” NBS, 19 Jan. 2021, nbs.net/how-diversity-increases-productivity/.
