It’s no secret that a massive skills gap has been plaguing the injection molding industry for quite a while now. Those who have been in the industry for a long time are beginning to fade out into retirement, and the number of fresh faces entering the industry is limited. That means there aren’t enough skilled molding professionals to go around, and those that are around take new, better opportunities as they arise (can we blame them?). That leaves so many of us asking not just WHERE to find this highly sought-after talent, but how to KEEP them from jumping ship the moment a better offer comes along. Here are 8 strategies to attracting and retaining top talent in the injection molding industry.

1. Invest in Training and Development

Continuous learning is key in an industry where technological advancements are the norm. Provide employees with opportunities for training and skill development to keep them up on the latest industry trends and innovations. Injection molding training courses are offered at all different experience levels, online, in person, or even at your facility, so you can find the option that best suits your needs.

If you have the staff and experience available, establish mentorship programs within the organization, allowing experienced professionals to guide and share their knowledge with newer employees. This will help them better understand trade secrets and tricks that they can later pass down to new processors as well.

Well-trained employees not only know how to do better work, they have confidence and pride in their work and have much higher production value than those who are left untrained. They believe in what they’re creating and are able to share that passion with others, further perpetuating the positive growth and morale throughout your organization.

2. Create a Positive Work Culture

Foster a workplace culture that values collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. Employees thrive in environments where their contributions are recognized and appreciated. Show them the reason that they get out of bed and spend all of their time in your facility, that it’s meaningful and is helping to make a positive change not just for your customers, but the world as a whole. Having something to believe in and work towards will give them purpose and improve quality and productivity.

One thing you could try is to implement an employee recognition program to acknowledge outstanding performance and milestones. Encourage team members to lift each other up and recognize the awesome work they are doing. Regular team-building activities can also contribute to a positive work atmosphere.

3. Develop Competitive Compensation Packages

Offer competitive salary and benefits packages to attract top talent, then continue to re-evaluate and adjust compensation appropriately as team members learn and reach certain milestones. Research industry benchmarks and ensure that your compensation packages are in line with or exceed market standards, especially as employees gain certifications, like Master Molder®, that increase their value and attractiveness to other organizations.

4. Offer Flexible Work Arrangements

Embrace flexibility in work arrangements, allowing employees to balance professional and personal commitments. This can include options such as remote work, flexible hours, or compressed workweeks. A flexible work environment demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, contributing to higher job satisfaction and retention rates. Software like The Hub® allows remote access, so employees can view machine performance and troubleshoot from afar when needed.

5. Emphasize Career Growth Opportunities

Clearly define career paths within the organization and provide employees with opportunities for advancement. A well-defined growth plan can motivate individuals to invest in their long-term commitment to the company. Support employees in pursuing further education and acquiring new certifications that align with their career goals.

6. Promote Health and Wellness

Prioritize the health and well-being of employees by offering wellness programs and health-related benefits. This could include gym memberships, health screenings, or mental health support services. A focus on employee well-being not only attracts top talent but also enhances productivity and reduces absenteeism.

7. Utilize Technology for Recruitment

Leverage digital platforms and social media to showcase your company’s work culture, values, and job opportunities. Create a compelling online presence to attract potential candidates. Implement advanced recruitment technologies such as AI-driven tools to streamline the hiring process and identify candidates who align with your organization’s needs.

8. Seek Feedback and Foster Communication

Establish open lines of communication between management and employees. Regular feedback sessions, surveys, and town hall meetings create an environment where employees feel heard and valued. Act on constructive feedback to continuously improve the workplace and address any concerns that may arise.

Conclusion

Success is not solely determined by the quality of machinery but also by the caliber of the workforce behind it. By implementing these strategies, you can attract and retain top talent, fostering a positive culture that will not only get newer processors up to speed, but give them something to work toward and find pride in.