HELP! I Need Help!

	Mike Miller

Submitted by Mike Miller, Curriculum and Training Manager

Being a former electrical contractor, I too at times echoed this tired statement over the past years. Despite facing challenging circumstances, we have persevered to sustain our business. Moving forward, we clearly recognize the necessity of leveraging every available strategy to retain our valuable workforce and attract new talent to ensure a productive journey towards growth and a prosperous future in the electrical contracting industry."

I thought about some of the areas I believe we can focus on to achieve that future prosperity.

Having "it" is one thing but defining "it" is another question entirely.

'It' is something potential employees seek in a company that could encompass a variety of things, ranging from flexible work schedules to ownership stakes within the company.

In today's world, job security remains a concern for electrical workers, though not to the extent seen in years past. It has become evident that modern employees prioritize a balanced life, a concept often overlooked by previous generations. While older workers focused on sustaining themselves through their jobs, today's workforce places a premium on personal fulfillment and well-being. If a job interferes with their lifestyle, they are more inclined to seek alternatives that better align with their preferences and values.
Herein may lie the solution, as I perceive it. "It" should represent something inherently evident, as it is most likely related to the aspirations you hold dear. Common sense, and even biblical wisdom, tell us to treat others with the same dignity and regard that we desire for ourselves. Instill in every employee a sense of value, respect, and equity. Before making decisions, consider the repercussions on those involved and the overall prosperity of your company. Here are a few basic considerations to cultivate the essence of "it" within your company, attracting those who observe from the outside:

• Foster open communication channels and transparency in decision-making processes to cultivate trust and inclusivity within the organization.
• Provide comprehensive avenues for professional growth and development, empowering employees to enhance their skills and advance their careers within the company.
• Prioritize initiatives that promote work-life balance, recognizing the importance of employees' well-being in sustaining productivity and morale.
• Acknowledge and reward employees for their exceptional contributions and achievements, nurturing a culture of appreciation and sustained motivation.
• Uphold unwavering ethical standards and integrity in all business dealings, thereby fostering trust and credibility both internally and externally.
• Establish an employee advisory committee to solicit feedback and insights directly from the workforce, fostering a collaborative and responsive organizational culture.
• Explore the possibility of implementing a job profit-sharing program, providing employees with a tangible stake in the company's success and fostering a sense of ownership.
• Demonstrate a firm commitment to workplace safety through the execution of a dedicated safety program, showing a proactive approach to safeguarding employees and investing in the organization's future.

By incorporating these strategies, I believe your company can cultivate a workplace environment that values transparency, prioritizes employee well-being, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and mutual success.