3 MIN. READ
There is a widespread labor shortage affecting the manufacturing sector and the entire economy. Even though the sector is experiencing a surge in activity, it is facing a major challenge with more than 800,000 job openings. The skills gap that exists for specialized positions has been an ongoing issue for a while, but there is a broader problem with some manufacturers who struggle to find entry-level applicants. Working with a manufacturing staffing agency is a viable solution for filling job openings and addressing the labor shortage.
How Do Staffing Agencies Work?
The role of a staffing agency is to find the most qualified candidate for a position. The agency will create a job description according to your needs and advertise the position. A recruiter will then review applications and interview candidates.
You will play a crucial part in this process by making the final hiring decision, typically by interviewing the candidate again. However, most recruiting agencies will handle the hiring paperwork and things like payroll.
From a legal standpoint, the workers are employed by the agency. You pay a fee to the agency that includes the employee’s wages and the agency’s markup. Expect to pay a markup of 25-100% of the employee’s wages. However, because the employee works for the staffing agency, you are not responsible for worker’s comp and other benefits.
Another important note: Contracts can differ. You can opt for temporary contracts to fill seasonal positions or hire short-term employees. Some agencies also offer temp-to-perm contracts that allow you to make a direct hire once the temporary contract ends.
How to Choose the Right Manufacturing Staffing Agency for Your Needs
There is a due diligence process for choosing the right staffing agency. You will get the best results if you work with an agency that specializes in filling manufacturing positions. The recruiters will have a solid understanding of the kind of skills and qualities that make for successful employees in this field.
You should gather pertinent information before working with a recruiting agency
• Find out more about the interviewing and vetting process.
• Ask how long it typically takes to fill a position.
• Make sure the agency has helped customers in your industry in the past.
• Request a fee schedule with the agency’s markup and other charges.
• Ask about the type of contracts offered.
• Get some numbers, including the hire-to-interview ratio and the number of temp workers who end up with long-term contracts.
• Do not hesitate to ask for some reviews from other manufacturers.
How to Communicate Your Staffing Needs
When working with a manufacturing staffing agency, you can ensure that the temp employees will be a good fit by communicating your needs clearly.
Ideally, you should have a point of contact at the agency. Stay in touch with this person throughout the hiring process, and ask for frequent updates. The more this person learns, the easier it will be for them to select candidates who are a good fit for your business.
Temp agencies need to know which skills you are looking for so they can create an accurate job description and select the right candidates. Be as precise as possible when listing the technical skills and manufacturing experience you are looking for. Also, do not forget to mention the soft skills that will help new hires fit in. Look for industry certifications that would indicate a qualified candidate as well.
Additionally, if possible, review some of the applications and resumes the agency receives so you can give some feedback and update your specifications as needed.
A manufacturing staffing agency can be a powerful ally for dealing with the skilled labor shortage that the manufacturing sector is experiencing.
