Skills shortage: How companies can attract and retain employees

In many industries, companies are having a hard time filling their vacant positions in a timely manner. However, healthcare professions are particularly affected. But IT developers, analysts and engineers are also urgently needed. Companies from these industries in particular should work out measures to attract and retain employees. But in other areas, too, it can make sense to react now to the tight situation on the market and transform oneself into an attractive employer. The keyword is "employer branding". This term covers all marketing activities that serve to build up a good employer brand.

Retain employees in the long term

When skilled workers feel comfortable in a company, they often stay for many decades, so there is no need to constantly look for new employees. At the same time, they are well integrated into the existing team, enabling fast and fluid processes. Companies therefore benefit from retaining skilled workers for as long as possible. To achieve this, there is no one ultimate solution. Rather, it's about a combination of different measures.

1. personalized employee gifts

Appreciation can be shown through a range of special benefits. In addition to the Christmas bonus and the company car, there are many other options. Regular gifts on specific occasions or the presentation of an award for employees who have made a particular contribution are also an option. It is important to choose gifts that actually have a benefit for the employees. A high-quality tablet or iPhone is usually appreciated. Combined with matching iPhone 14 Pro Accessories in high quality succeeds a high-quality and at the same time functional gift. Personalized gifts are even better. With a smartphone, for example, this can work via the accessories. An iPhone case is much easier to personalize than the device itself. In this way, companies show that they have put some thought into it and are not simply giving away the obligatory bottle of wine to everyone.

2. other attractive employee benefits

Other benefits also increase employee satisfaction. For example, employees enjoy the following offers:

• Meal vouchers
• Childcare
• Training opportunities
• Extended insurance cover
• Company parties
• Good work-life balance

Attract new employees

To avoid an acute Skills shortage in one's own company, it is usually not enough to retain one's own employees. In addition, companies should also make timely efforts to recruit young talent and ensure a good image through targeted employer branding.

1. place advertising on the right channels

If the skilled workers stay away, companies have to advertise specifically for themselves. Different channels are available for this, depending on the industry and the vacant positions. Job boards, social media or job postings can all be useful. However, it always depends on the target group. Companies that are looking more locally or regionally for new employees and want to appeal primarily to older and experienced professionals can still try the classic job ad. If a younger audience is to be attracted, on the other hand, social media is indispensable. Here, it is important to analyze one's own target group precisely and, if necessary, to combine different channels with each other.

2. uncomplicated and up-to-date application processes

In the meantime, it is easily possible to have a large part of the application process take place online. The less complicated the process, the more likely it is that numerous people will apply. Pre-made forms to fill out or the ability to simply upload cover letters and documents via a document upload are one option, for example. Companies that still expect applicants to send entire portfolios by mail may be missing out on many suitable professionals. They then prefer to apply elsewhere, where they have less effort.

3. improve ecological, economic and social sustainability

Sustainable employers are well received by many applicants. This is not just about the well-known ecological sustainability, which is based on a considerate approach to nature. Economic sustainability also plays an important role for many employees. This means that a company must produce sustainably in order to remain in business for as long as possible. Companies whose business idea is based on a long-term plan are more likely to remain a reliable employer in the future. Probably the most important factor for many applicants is the social sustainabilitywhich can also help ensure that employees who are already employed feel comfortable and stay with the company. This includes, for example, humane working hours and fair pay. But flexible working models, part-time offers and home office can also be part of this. Companies should place great emphasis on the compatibility of family, leisure and work. Because in this way they can visibly stand out from the competition with conventional work models.

Conclusion: Combination of attracting and retaining employees

All signs point to the fact that the shortage of skilled workers in Switzerland even greater dimensions will assume. This makes it all the more important to develop a strategy now. Optimally, companies combine employee retention with employee recruitment. In this context, the conditions for employees in the company play a particularly important role. Special benefits, gifts and a pleasant working environment make it easier to retain employees and attract new ones.