Tackling the Skilled Labor Shortage

The US is facing a persistent shortage of skilled labor in all trades.  Retirements, fewer new recruits, and high demand for services mean that many companies are really having a hard time keeping up with their projects.  Fewer tradesmen mean fewer install teams, which in turn means less customer satisfaction, less money, and more stress.

Apprenticeships and training programs are definitely part of the solution.  But, in addition, technology and managing a smart workflow are becoming more and more important to keep business competitive. 

The Impact of the Skilled Labor Shortage

• Project Delays - Having fewer qualified techs slow down installations, repairs and maintenance
• Higher Costs - Overtime and the need to subcontract to meet project deadlines can throw off budgets
• Client Satisfaction - Rushed work is rarely good work.  A tech trying to stay on a tight schedule can affect the quality of the work and in turn affect you and your shops reputation

How Can Technology Help Your Business?

• Project Management Tools - Track jobs, streamline workflows, and optimize your technicians schedules to minimize travel and down time between jobs.
• Training and Knowledge Sharing Platforms - Having digitally organized training materials, SOPs and manuals will speed up training your existing team and any new hires that come on board.
• Marketing & Customer Communications - Be sure to promote your business's ability to maintain high quality service, even during labor shortages.  This will help keep customer trust in you and your brand strong.
• Recruitment Support - Use digital platforms and job boards to attract apprentices and other new talent as efficiently as possible, and have a set company training program to integrate them into your company's work flow more smoothly. 
• Remote Support Solutions - Adopting products that provide remote monitoring allows your team to handle issues without having to go on site.

Turn Shortages into Opportunity

While there has been a recent uptick in trade school enrollment, it is going to take a while for that to make an impact.  Businesses that leverage new technologies and smart, efficient processes can maintain their quality, maintain trust, and gain a competitive advantage.

Partnering with a company like Finger Lakes Work Place can help your company make the most of your current work force, reduce downtime and delays, improve training, and keep your customers satisfied, even when you're short handed.

Technology, process optimization, and smart marketing are your allies in a tight labor market.  FLWP can help you implement all three so your business stays strong and competitive.

Would you like to discuss options to get a smooth and more efficient work flow in place?  Feel free to grab a spot on my calendar, or email me at aaron@flworkplace.com

Cheers!

Aaron